Bryan Braman, NFL linebacker, died at 38 from a rare, aggressive cancer. Here’s what we know about the disease, its symptoms, and available treatment options.
Former NFL linebacker and Super Bowl winner Bryan Braman died Thursday at the age of 38 after battling a rare and aggressive form of cancer. His agent, Sean Stellato, confirmed the news, stating that Braman had been undergoing treatment since his diagnosis in February 2024.
Known for his fearless special teams play and his role in the Philadelphia Eagles’ 2017 Super Bowl run, Braman’s final months brought attention to a lesser-known and fast-moving disease.
Bryan Braman: Diagnosed earlier this year with rare cancer
While the specific type of cancer has not been publicly disclosed, statements from his family and supporters describe it as “rare” and “aggressive”, terms commonly used for certain fast-growing cancers like sarcomas, glioblastomas, or rare blood cancers such as anaplastic large cell lymphoma. These cancers often progress rapidly and can be difficult to detect early.
Braman underwent multiple surgeries in Seattle, according to a GoFundMe page set up for his medical care. Despite receiving advanced treatment, his condition worsened over the months.
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Bryan Braman cancer type: What makes rare cancers so deadly?
Rare aggressive cancers typically present vague or non-specific symptoms
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent pain or swelling.
This makes early detection difficult. Often, by the time symptoms are taken seriously and a diagnosis is made, the disease has already spread.
Unlike more common forms of cancer that have clearly defined treatment plans, rare cancers often lack standardised protocols. That leaves patients, even with access to high-level care like Braman, with limited options.
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Treatment is still catching up
Treatments for rare aggressive cancers usually involve a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. In Braman’s case, he reportedly underwent several surgeries. Immunotherapy and clinical trials may also be used, but success rates vary depending on the cancer’s stage and location.
Even with medical advancements, survival rates for many rare cancers remain low due to late diagnosis and rapid progression.
Braman’s case puts spotlight on post-NFL healthcare
After retiring from the NFL in 2017, Braman’s eligibility for league health insurance ended five years later. Though he received support from friends and former teammates, NFL star J.J. Watt donated $10,000 to his fundraiser, his case has reignited conversations about long-term healthcare support for retired athletes.
Braman played in 97 games over seven seasons with the Houston Texans and Philadelphia Eagles, winning the Super Bowl in his final year. He was known for his fearlessness on the field, once making a tackle without his helmet, and for his special teams heroics.
Bryan Braman Family
He is survived by two young daughters, Blakely and Marlowe. In past interviews, Braman had said his proudest moments were his NFL career, his Super Bowl ring, and his role as a father.
While his life was cut tragically short, Braman’s final fight has brought attention to a deadly corner of cancer medicine, one still full of unknowns and in urgent need of awareness and research.
