The NFL family and countless fans are mourning the sudden and utterly devastating loss of Super Bowl LII champion Bryan Braman, who passed away on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at the heartbreakingly young age of 38. His death comes after a fierce, yet largely private, battle with a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer. He leaves behind his two beloved young daughters, 11-year-old Blakely and 8-year-old Marlowe, who were his entire world.

Braman’s passing is a profound tragedy for anyone who knew him or admired his incredible journey from an undrafted free agent to a Super Bowl champion. His agent, Sean Stellato, confirmed the news, stating that Braman was a “warrior in every sense – on the field and in life.”

A Silent Battle, A Fierce Fight

Diagnosed in February 2025, Bryan Braman faced a rapid and brutal progression of his illness. He underwent multiple surgeries and received advanced CAR-T cell therapy in Seattle, a testament to his determination to fight for his life and for his children. While the public may not have been fully aware of the severity of his condition until recent weeks, those closest to him knew he was engaged in the battle of his life.

The NFL community rallied around him. A GoFundMe campaign, set up by a friend, raised over $88,000 to help offset his mounting medical costs, including a generous $10,000 donation from his former Texans teammate J.J. Watt, who also shared a heartfelt tribute. This outpouring of support underscored the respect and affection Bryan had earned throughout his career.

A “Girl Dad” Gone Too Soon

Bryan Braman was more than just a fierce special teams player; he was, first and foremost, a devoted “girl dad.” His daughters, Blakely and Marlowe, were his universe. In his final two weeks, despite his deteriorating health, he spent precious time with them, creating memories that will now serve as a bittersweet comfort. His ex-girlfriend and the girls’ mother, Cheyenne Fisher, shared that his daughters understand he is “in a better place” and have gained “an amazing guardian angel.” This dedication to his children in his final moments paints a poignant picture of the man he was off the field.

An Unlikely Path to Glory

Braman’s NFL career was a testament to his grit and relentless effort. Undrafted out of West Texas A&M in 2011, he carved out a successful seven-season career with the Houston Texans, Philadelphia Eagles, and New Orleans Saints. He became a cult hero for his fearless, all-out special teams play, famously making a helmet-less tackle in his rookie year that went viral.

His crowning achievement came in Super Bowl LII with the Philadelphia Eagles. A key special teams contributor, he was part of the team that famously defeated the New England Patriots, bringing the franchise its first Lombardi Trophy. He even delivered a fiery locker room speech before that monumental game, showcasing his leadership and passion.

And Yet… It Could’ve Been Even More Tragic…

The immense grief felt today is almost unfathomable, yet there’s a small, heartbreaking solace in one aspect: Bryan Braman spent his final weeks with his two little girls by his side. Imagine the additional agony if his battle had taken him away from them abruptly, without those precious farewell moments. This small mercy, in the face of such overwhelming sorrow, highlights the deep love and connection he shared with his daughters.

The world has lost a Super Bowl champion, a dedicated athlete, and a courageous fighter. But more importantly, two young girls have lost their father. Bryan Braman’s legacy will live on through his unforgettable plays, his Super Bowl ring, and most significantly, in the hearts of Blakely and Marlowe.

Rest in peace, Bryan. Your fight is over.