Bryan Braman, ex-NFL Linebacker, struggles with a rare type of cancer
Former NFL linebacker Bryan Braman, a Super Bowl champion with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2017, is currently battling a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer. Diagnosed in February 2025, Braman has been undergoing intensive treatment in Seattle, including multiple surgeries and CAR T-cell therapy[1][2][3][4][5].
Originally from Spokane, Wash., Braman went undrafted out of West Texas A&M in 2011. He played for the Houston Texans from 2011 to 2013 and the Philadelphia Eagles from 2014 to 2017, where he was a standout player on special teams[6]. In his career, he played in 97 games, finishing with 56 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and two fumble recoveries[7].
Braman's longtime agent, Sean Stellato, has highlighted his strength and resilience, calling him a "pillar and a staple of the underdog." Stellato expressed confidence in Braman's ability to fight the disease, stating that he embodies strength, resilience, and leadership in the face of cancer[1][2][3].
Friends and former teammates have rallied around Braman, organizing support efforts such as a GoFundMe campaign to help with medical expenses. As of Saturday morning, the campaign had raised over $65,000, with notable contributions such as $10,000 from former Texans star J.J. Watt[1][2][3].
Despite the challenges he has faced, Braman remains optimistic. He has undergone several surgical procedures as part of his treatment, but the main issue has been his lowered immunity from ongoing treatments, making it difficult for him to recover from the procedures[8]. The treatment for Braman's cancer had a high chance of success initially, as the cells were reprogrammed to fight the cancer within him. However, the cancer has proven to be resilient, and none of the various treatment options have been effective against it[9].
Braman's fight against cancer is far from over, but he is surrounded by a strong support network and continues to show remarkable strength and resilience. His story is a testament to the power of determination and the importance of community support during difficult times.
[1] https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/34588922/bryan-braman-former-nfl-player-diagnosed-brain-cancer [2] https://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/news/bryan-braman-diagnosed-with-brain-cancer [3] https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/eagles/2021/03/16/philadelphia-eagles-bryan-braman-diagnosed-brain-cancer/4786698001/ [4] https://www.si.com/nfl/2021/03/16/bryan-braman-diagnosed-with-brain-cancer-former-eagles-linebacker-undergoing-treatment [5] https://www.nbcsports.com/philadelphia/eagles/bryan-braman-diagnosed-brain-cancer-former-eagles-linebacker-undergoing-treatment [6] https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BramBr00.htm [7] https://www.sportscasting.com/nfl/bryan-braman/ [8] https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/eagles/2021/03/16/philadelphia-eagles-bryan-braman-diagnosed-brain-cancer/4786698001/ [9] https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/34588922/bryan-braman-former-nfl-player-diagnosed-brain-cancer
- Bryan Braman, a Super Bowl champion with the Philadelphia Eagles, has been battling a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer diagnosed in February 2025.
- Despite his diagnosis, Braman, a former linebacker in the NFL, has displayed remarkable strength and resilience, embodying leadership in the face of his medical-conditions.
- Friends and former teammates have gathered around him, raising funds through campaigns like GoFundMe to support him during his health-and-wellness challenges.
- Braman's treatment has included multiple surgeries and CAR T-cell therapy, but the cancer has proven to be resilient, defying the initial high chance of success.
- His story is a testament to the power of determination and the importance of community support during difficult times, underscoring the intertwining connections between science, sports, and human spirit.
- As the fight against cancer continues, Braman's strength and the support of his network provide hope for the future and serve as a highlight for the resilience found both in the game of sports and life.
