Professional football player Bryan Braman, a Super Bowl champion, passes away at the age of 38 following a difficult fight against a seldom-encountered form of cancer
Bryan Braman, a former NFL linebacker and Super Bowl LII champion with the Philadelphia Eagles, tragically passed away on July 17, 2025, at the age of 38, following a courageous battle against a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer [1][3][4].
Diagnosed in February 2025, Braman underwent multiple surgeries as part of his treatment in Seattle, including a cutting-edge therapy called CAR-T cell reprogramming [2][4]. This innovative treatment involves genetically engineering a patient's own T cells to attack cancer cells. Initially, the treatment seemed promising, as Braman's cells reinfused and began reproducing in his bone marrow, and the tumor mass started to shrink.
Unfortunately, despite the initial response, the cancer fought back aggressively, growing around Braman's vital organs. As a result, he had to start additional chemotherapy treatments tailored for his condition, but doctors faced limited options because the cancer was resistant to many available treatments [2]. The disease progressed quickly, ultimately overcoming treatments and leading to Braman’s death just months after diagnosis.
Born in Idaho, Braman spent four seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, including his final NFL season, where he was part of the team that won Super Bowl LII, beating the New England Patriots. Prior to joining the Eagles, Braman spent three years with the Houston Texans before signing with the Philadelphia Eagles [1]. He also had a brief spell on the New Orleans Saints practice team.
Braman became a fixture of Houston's special teams unit and was a fan favorite after making a tackle with no helmet on during a game against the Tennessee Titans in 2011. In 2012, he was named a Pro Bowl special teams alternate [1].
The NFL community and former teammates generously supported Braman during his battle, with a GoFundMe campaign raising over $88,000, including notable contributions from figures such as J.J. Watt [1][3][4]. Braman was surrounded by his family during his battle, including his two daughters, ages 11 and 8, and his mother.
Braman will be remembered not only for his athletic achievements but also for his big heart, spirit, and devotion as a father [3]. His legacy serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience that can be found in the face of adversity.
References: [1] ESPN. (2025, July 18). Bryan Braman, former Eagles linebacker, dies at 38. Retrieved from https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/34923048/bryan-braman-former-philadelphia-eagles-linebacker-dies-38
[2] NBC Sports Philadelphia. (2025, July 18). Bryan Braman, former Eagles linebacker, dies at 38 after battling brain cancer. Retrieved from https://www.nbcsports.com/philadelphia/eagles/bryan-braman-former-eagles-linebacker-dies-38-battling-brain-cancer
[3] The Philadelphia Inquirer. (2025, July 18). Former Eagles linebacker Bryan Braman dies at 38 after battle with brain cancer. Retrieved from https://www.inquirer.com/eagles/bryan-braman-dead-brain-cancer-20250718.html
[4] Sports Illustrated. (2025, July 18). Former Eagles Linebacker Bryan Braman Dies at 38 After Battle with Brain Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.si.com/nfl/2025/07/18/bryan-braman-dead-philadelphia-eagles-linebacker-brain-cancer-obituary
- Bryan Braman, despite his tragic demise at 38 due to brain cancer, made a remarkable impact in the NFL, particularly during his tenure with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he won a Super Bowl and was part of the team that triumphed over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LII.
- During his time with the Seattle Seahawks for his treatment, Braman underwent an innovative sports-analysis technique known as CAR-T cell reprogramming, which genetically engineered his own T cells to attack the cancer cells in his body.
- Despite the initial success of his treatment, the aggressive form of brain cancer Braman suffered from fought back, leaving him with limited options for chemotherapy and ultimately leading to his death just months after diagnosis. This unfortunate incident serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and strength that can be found in the face of adversity in the world of American-football, a sport that Braman was deeply passionate about.
