O.J. Brigance, Former Ravens Player and ALS Advocate, Dies at 56

Baltimore, MD, August 17, 2026 —

O.J. Brigance, a former linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens and a key member of their Super Bowl XXXV winning team, has died at the age of 56. Brigance was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in 2007 and became a prominent advocate for research and awareness of the disease.

Brigance played for the Ravens from 1996 to 1999, contributing to a defense that became known for its toughness and effectiveness. His tenure with the team culminated in the Ravens’ victory in Super Bowl XXXV following the 2000 season. He also played for the Miami Dolphins and the Dallas Cowboys during his NFL career.

After his playing days, Brigance transitioned into a front-office role with the Ravens, serving as the director of player development. It was during this time that he began experiencing symptoms that would later be diagnosed as ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.

Despite his diagnosis, Brigance remained actively involved in the ALS community. He co-founded the Brigance Brigade Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping individuals and families affected by ALS, providing support and funding research aimed at finding a cure. His foundation also focused on raising public awareness about the disease.

Brigance’s battle with ALS was widely publicized, and he was often lauded for his strength, resilience, and continued dedication to helping others in the face of his own significant challenges. His passing marks the loss of a respected figure in Baltimore Ravens history and a tireless advocate for those affected by ALS.

Story summarized from the original created by Google News on news.google.com, see more information here.