Baltimore Ravens legend O.J. Brigance dies aged 56 after ALS battle
Former Baltimore Ravens linebacker and long-time team adviser O.J. Brigance has died at the age of 56 following a 19-year battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Brigance famously won a Super Bowl with the franchise during the 2000 season before serving as a profound inspiration to the organisation for nearly two decades.
He was diagnosed with the progressive neurological condition in 2007 at the age of 37 and was initially given a life expectancy of just two to five years.
Defying the odds
Despite losing his ability to speak and requiring a motorised wheelchair, the former defensive stalwart remained a constant and uplifting presence at team facilities.
He utilised eye-tracking technology to communicate with players, regularly sending motivational notes during their most challenging periods.
Baltimore owner Steve Bisciotti described the 56-year-old as a beloved mentor whose infectious smile endeared him to everyone he touched.
We are devastated by the awful news that we have lost O.J. Brigance.
Steve Bisciotti
General manager Eric DeCosta echoed those sentiments, praising his unwavering optimism and grit in the face of immense adversity.
We never once saw O.J. angry or frustrated by his disease; instead, we all witnessed a hero who influenced so many people.
Eric DeCosta
A unique place in Baltimore history
On the field, the Houston-born athlete secured a unique legacy in North American professional sports.
He remains the only player in history to win both a Canadian Football League Grey Cup and an NFL Super Bowl representing the same city.
The linebacker lifted the Grey Cup with the Baltimore Stallions in 1995 before writing himself into Ravens folklore.
During their Super Bowl XXXV victory over the New York Giants in January 2001, he notably made the first tackle of the game on the opening kickoff.
Inspiring a generation of players
His courageous fight against Lou Gehrig’s disease had a profound impact on several of the sport’s most legendary figures.
When Hall of Fame middle linebacker Ray Lewis lifted the AFC Championship trophy in 2013, he publicly declared his former team-mate to be his greatest motivation.
Iconic safety Ed Reed also dedicated part of his 2019 Hall of Fame enshrinement speech to the beloved adviser.
You’re the reason why I’m here, man. You’re the reason I became a great professional.
Ed Reed
Head coach John Harbaugh aptly summarised his immense impact, frequently referring to him as the strongest man in the entire organisation.