Ravens icon O.J. Brigance dies at 56 after 19-year ALS battle

The Baltimore Ravens have confirmed the death of O.J. Brigance, a former linebacker and Super Bowl champion, at the age of 56. The organisation announced on Monday that Brigance passed away following a 19-year battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive nervous system disease with no known cure.

Diagnosed in 2007 at the age of 37, Brigance was initially given a prognosis of two to five years to live. He defied medical expectations, serving the team as an adviser in player engagement for nearly two decades. During this period, he remained a visible presence at practices and games, often communicating through eye-tracking technology after losing the ability to speak.

Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti described Brigance as a "beloved legend" in a statement, noting that his "infectious smile" endeared him to the entire city. Head coach John Harbaugh frequently referred to him as the strongest man in the organisation, while former general manager Ozzie Newsome highlighted Brigance’s genuine nature and his role as a hero to Baltimore long before his illness.

Brigance’s playing career included a unique distinction as the only athlete to win both a Super Bowl and a Grey Cup for the same city. He secured the Grey Cup with the Baltimore Stallions in 1995 and, in January 2001, recorded the Ravens' first tackle in their Super Bowl XXXV victory over the New York Giants.

Beyond his on-field achievements, Brigance co-founded the Brigance Brigade Foundation with his wife, Chanda, to support those affected by ALS. In a 2023 correspondence with ESPN, he reflected on the opportunity to assist others facing similar challenges, stating that such difficulties present a chance to impact the lives of others. Former teammates, including Ray Lewis and Ed Reed, have previously cited Brigance as a significant source of motivation and inspiration throughout their careers.