The Baltimore Ravens lost one of the most influential figures in franchise history on Monday. O.J. Brigance, a Super Bowl champion who spent nearly two decades inspiring the football world during his battle with ALS, died at the age of 56.
The Ravens announced Brigance’s death after a 19-year fight with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Tributes quickly arrived from across the NFL for Brigance and his family, with former players and reporters remembering a man whose impact stretched far beyond football.
NFL World Pays Tribute to O.J. Brigance
Former Ravens quarterback Robert Griffin III was among those honoring Brigance, calling him “forever an inspiration” as condolences poured in for his wife, Chanda, and family.
ESPN’s Peter Schrager shared a particularly personal remembrance. Schrager co-wrote Brigance’s book, “Strength of a Champion,” when Brigance was six years into his battle with ALS.
“Blessed to have known OJ Brigance,” Schrager wrote on X, adding that Monday’s news was a somber reminder of the extraordinary length of Brigance’s fight.
Longtime Baltimore reporter Luke Jones remembered a piece of football history that connected Brigance to the city twice. Brigance helped the Baltimore Stallions win the 1995 Grey Cup, then made the first tackle of Super Bowl XXXV as the Ravens defeated the New York Giants five years later.
NFL reporter Howard Balzer called Brigance “all class” and praised the grace and love for life he showed during his battle with ALS. Toronto Sun columnist Steve Simmons offered another powerful tribute, describing Brigance as perhaps the bravest and strongest athlete he had ever known.
O.J. Brigance Leaves Lasting Ravens Legacy
Brigance’s playing career was only one part of his connection to Baltimore. After his seven-year NFL career ended following the 2002 season, he returned to the Ravens in a player engagement role and spent more than two decades helping the organization.
He was diagnosed with ALS in 2007. Brigance and Chanda later founded the Brigance Brigade Foundation, which has supported people living with ALS and their families through equipment, services, and resource guidance.
Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti called Brigance a “beloved legend, mentor and man” in the team’s official announcement. Former Ravens head coach John Harbaugh remembered him as a close friend and “a hero in our eyes.”
Brigance remained a visible part of the Ravens organization throughout his illness, offering perspective to generations of players, coaches and staff members. Baltimore described him as an organizational heartbeat, a role that became even more meaningful as his physical limitations increased.
His football résumé included a Grey Cup, a Super Bowl ring and the first tackle of one of the most important games in Ravens history.
The tributes Monday focused on something larger.
Brigance spent 19 years showing an entire football community what courage could look like. The prayers and remembrances for his family reflected just how many people were watching.
