O.J. Brigance, a Super Bowl champion and former NFL linebacker, has died at the age of 56. His passing on August 17, 2026, followed a 19-year battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease.
Brigance played seven seasons in the National Football League, primarily with the Miami Dolphins. He also had stints with the Baltimore Ravens, St. Louis Rams, and New England Patriots, contributing on defense and special teams. He was a member of the Ravens team that won Super Bowl XXXV, where he made the first tackle of the game on a kickoff return.
After his diagnosis with ALS in May 2007, Brigance became a prominent advocate for research into the disease. He established the Brigance Brigade Foundation, which aimed to provide assistance and support for ALS research and patient care.
Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti expressed the organization's devastation, remembering Brigance as "a beloved legend, mentor and man." Bisciotti highlighted Brigance's passionate play, his infectious smile, and his inspirational approach to life and his fight against ALS. The Ravens organization extended its deepest condolences to Brigance's wife, Chanda, and the entire Brigance family.
