O.J. Brigance, a beloved figure in the National Football League and a tireless advocate for those battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), passed away at the age of 56. The Baltimore Ravens announced his death, noting his lengthy battle with the progressive neurological disease. Brigance's life was marked by both significant athletic achievement, including a Super Bowl championship, and profound dedication to public service after his diagnosis.
"O.J. was a beloved legend, mentor and man to everyone who was fortunate enough to know him." — Steve Bisciotti, Baltimore Ravens Owner
Brigance's NFL career spanned seven seasons, during which he played for the Miami Dolphins, Baltimore Ravens, St. Louis Rams, and New England Patriots from 1996 to 2002. He entered the league as an undrafted free agent out of Rice University, signing with the Dolphins in 1996. After spending four seasons in Miami, he joined the Baltimore Ravens for their historic 2000 season. As a key member of the Ravens' championship defense, Brigance played in all 16 regular-season games, recording 12 tackles and a fumble recovery. He notably made the first tackle of Super Bowl XXXV, a moment that remains etched in Ravens lore as the team defeated the New York Giants. Following his time with the Ravens, Brigance also played for the Rams and Patriots before retiring after the 2002 season.
Five years after concluding his professional football career, Brigance received a life-altering diagnosis: ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, in 2007. This devastating news, however, did not lead him to withdraw from public life. Instead, Brigance embraced a new mission, transforming into a prominent advocate for individuals living with ALS and their families. He and his family established a foundation dedicated to supporting ALS patients and funding critical research aimed at finding a cure for the disease. His commitment to advocacy earned him widespread recognition, including the NCAA Inspiration Award in 2016.
Throughout his battle with ALS, Brigance maintained a deep connection with the Baltimore Ravens organization. For more than two decades, he continued to contribute to the team, notably in player development, serving as a mentor and source of inspiration for countless athletes. His unwavering spirit and positive outlook, even in the face of such a debilitating illness, left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him.
Steve Bisciotti, owner of the Baltimore Ravens, expressed profound sorrow at Brigance's passing. "We are devastated by the awful news that we have lost O.J. Brigance," Bisciotti stated. "O.J. was a beloved legend, mentor and man to everyone who was fortunate enough to know him." Bisciotti further praised Brigance's enduring positive influence, remarking, "Known for his big smile and welcoming nature, it was easy to feel a special connection with O.J. from the moment you met him." He emphasized Brigance's lasting legacy in the community, adding, "This is a tremendously sad day for Baltimore. O.J. will be remembered for his service to our community, to the Ravens and to the fight to find a cure for ALS."
Former Ravens head coach Brian Billick and his wife, Kim, also paid tribute to Brigance, highlighting his character and impact. "We have lost a very special soul in O.J. Brigance," they said. "O.J. has been a member of the Ravens family for over 25 years and was an inspiring symbol of grace, class, compassion and competitive competence." Billick added that Brigance embodied the very qualities the Ravens organization aspired to represent.
O.J. Brigance leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond his accomplishments on the football field. He is remembered not only as a Super Bowl champion but also as a dedicated mentor, an impactful advocate, and a cherished member of the Baltimore community who bravely confronted ALS for nearly two decades, turning his personal challenge into a powerful platform for hope and research. His journey from an undrafted player to a Super Bowl hero and then to a beacon of hope for those facing a terminal illness stands as a testament to his remarkable spirit and enduring impact.
