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JJ Watt Saddened By Death Of His Former NFL Teammate

Originally posted on The Spun | By Tzvi Machlin | Last updated Jul 17, 2025 1:53 PM ET

The football world lost a beloved player today as former linebacker and special teams ace Bryan Braman passed away at the age of 38.

Braman joined the Houston Texans as an undrafted free agent in 2011 and quickly became a fan favorite for his special teams playmaking ability. As Braman was rising to prominence, so was then-rookie J.J. Watt.

Watt and Braman played their first three NFL seasons together before Braman became a free agent in 2014. He would play four more NFL seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, winning a Super Bowl in the final game of his career.

But this summer Braman was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Watt did his best to support his former teammate, donating $10,000 to Braman's GoFundMe for cancer treatment.

On Thursday morning, Watt took to X to offer his condolences to Braman.

Rest in Peace brother.

Gone far too soon.

pic.twitter.com/bJfEPMPCAc
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) July 17, 2025

NFL fans in the comments similarly paid tribute to Braman, fondly recalling some of his great moments as a player:

"Terrible Ah…can’t believe it. Just a reminder to enjoy while we are here. Man JJ you did so much for H town. Big thx," one user replied.

"Remember him being on the kickoff team coverage and just blasting people," another wrote.

"I’m so sorry to hear this. My condolences to you, his family, friends, and teammates," wrote a third.

"Prayers up for Bryan's family and friends. You'll see him again. Promise."

"So sad! Praying for his family. RIP."

"Too soon, too quickly, too young… cancer is evil. May God bring comfort to all of his family and friends. I hate this news."

"RIP Braman. Had the pleasure of meeting him and talking w/him at LA Fitness in Pearland a few times. So down to earth and just one of the guys."

"Will never forget how hard he played a game he loved playing, God speed."

"Far too soon is an understatement..."

Oct 9, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Bryan Braman (56) points and yells during the third quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Lions won 24-23.Raj Mehta-Imagn Images.

Braman finished his career with 56 tackles, mostly on special teams, along with 1.5 sacks, two fumble recoveries, one tackle for loss and two QB hits.

Our hearts go out to Braman's family and loved ones.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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