NFL: Former Eagles and Texans linebacker Bryan Braman dies after battle with cancer
The former defensive player was only 38.
Bryan Braman, a former linebacker who played for both the Houston Texans and Philadelphia Eagles, has died at the age of 38 following a battle with a rare form of cancer.
Braman was diagnosed with the illness in February and had been receiving treatment in Seattle, undergoing several surgeries, according to a GoFundMe page set up to help with his medical expenses.
His agent, Sean Stellato, shared the news of his passing and spoke of Braman’s character and legacy.
“Bryan, people saw this enormous human being, but his heart was big as his body,” Stellato said.
“His spirit was so motivating. He was so real and genuine with everybody. That made him special.
“It’s hard. I feel like I lost my firstborn. This kid, he gave me his bed every time I came to Philadelphia. He would threaten me if I didn’t stay with him. That’s something I’ll always cherish. My heart hurts today.”
Braman leaves behind two young daughters, ages 11 and 8. The GoFundMe campaign launched in support of his treatment raised over $88,000.
Former NFL linebacker Bryan Braman, who played 97 games with the Texans and Eagles, has passed away at 38 years old after battling a rare, aggressive form of cancer. pic.twitter.com/rNk1WyWyp9
— TSN (@TSN_Sports) July 17, 2025
Among the donors was former team-mate and Texans star JJ Watt, who contributed $10,000 and paid tribute to Braman on social media.
“Rest in Peace brother,” Watt wrote. “Gone far too soon.”
Braman entered the NFL in 2011 as an undrafted player but managed to carve out a seven-year professional career.
He spent time with both the Texans and the Eagles, becoming known for his work on special teams.
His career highlight came during the 2017 playoffs when he blocked a punt in the divisional round after rejoining Philadelphia – a run that ended with a Super Bowl LII victory, marking his final game in the league.
“You look at his journey and beating the odds to make it to the NFL after going undrafted,” Stellato said. “Not only making it, but producing and becoming a world champion, he had a real hard journey. In life, we all run this race. To die at age 38, the game of football and his family are hurting today. He was a staple for what football and underdogs are about.”