On July 17, 2025, the NFL community mourned the loss of former Houston Texans and Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Bryan Braman, who passed away at age 38 after a valiant battle with a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer. A Super Bowl LII champion and special teams standout, Braman’s journey from an undrafted free agent to a seven-year NFL veteran was defined by grit, heart, and an unrelenting underdog spirit. We explores Braman’s remarkable career, his estimated net worth and career earnings, his courageous fight against cancer, and the legacy he leaves behind for his daughters and the football world.
Bryan Braman’s Life and NFL Journey
Early Life and College Career
Born on May 4, 1987, in Spokane, Washington, Bryan Allan Braman grew up with a passion for football, overcoming significant obstacles to reach the NFL. His college career took a non-traditional path, starting with one season at the University of Idaho before transferring to Long Beach City College. He later completed his collegiate tenure at West Texas A&M, a Division II program, where his 6-foot-5, 230-pound frame and explosive athleticism made him a standout linebacker. Despite his talent, Braman went undrafted in the 2011 NFL Draft due to his smaller-school background, setting the stage for his underdog story.
Houston Texans (2011–2013)
Braman’s NFL career began when he signed with the Houston Texans as an undrafted free agent in 2011. He quickly carved out a role as a special teams dynamo, earning a roster spot through his fearless play. In the 2011 season finale against the Tennessee Titans, Braman gained national attention by tackling punt returner Marc Mariani head-on without a helmet, a viral moment that became a testament to his toughness. In 2012, he led the Texans with 16 special teams tackles and set a franchise record with two blocked punts, including a touchdown off a blocked punt against the Indianapolis Colts, earning him a Pro Bowl alternate selection.
Over three seasons with Houston, Braman appeared in 46 games, recording 29 tackles, 0.5 sacks, and one fumble recovery, primarily on special teams, where he played over 80% of snaps. His relentless energy made him a fan favorite and a respected teammate, with J.J. Watt later calling him a “brother” during Braman’s cancer battle.
Philadelphia Eagles and Super Bowl LII (2014–2017)
In March 2014, Braman joined the Philadelphia Eagles, where he continued to excel as a special teams ace. Over four seasons (2014–2016, 2017), he played in 51 games, recording 27 tackles, one sack, and one fumble recovery. After a brief stint on the New Orleans Saints’ practice squad in 2017, Braman returned to the Eagles for their playoff run, making a significant impact.
In the NFC Divisional Round against the Atlanta Falcons, Braman blocked a punt by Matt Bosher, shifting momentum in a 15–10 victory that propelled the Eagles toward Super Bowl LII. In the Super Bowl on February 4, 2018, Braman made a critical special teams tackle on a trick play, stopping New England Patriots’ running back Rex Burkhead at the 9-yard line, helping secure Philadelphia’s 41–33 victory—their first Super Bowl title since 1960. Braman’s final NFL game, he later said, was one of his “three greatest accomplishments,” alongside his seven-year career and fatherhood to his daughters, Blakely and Marlowe.
Career Statistics and Impact
Across seven NFL seasons (2011–2017), Braman played in 97 regular-season games, amassing 56 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and two fumble recoveries. His role as a special teams enforcer, logging over 80% of snaps in that phase, made him invaluable. Former Eagles assistant coach Matthew Harper praised Braman’s energy, noting his Super Bowl LII tackle as a game-changing moment that went under the radar. Former teammate Jordan Matthews described Braman’s pregame speeches as electrifying, calling him the “crazy” leader every locker room needed.
Bryan Braman’s Battle with Cancer
In February 2025, Braman was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer, requiring multiple surgeries and CAR T-cell therapy in Seattle. The treatment, along with 24-hour caregiving and housing costs, placed a heavy financial burden on Braman and his family, leading him to sell his vehicle to cover expenses. A GoFundMe campaign, organized by friend William Jones, raised over $88,400, with significant contributions from J.J. Watt ($10,000) and former teammates like Chris Long, Duane Brown, Brian Cushing, Brent Celek, and Rasul Douglas.
Despite early signs of progress as the tumor began to shrink, the cancer spread rapidly around vital organs by June 2025, outpacing chemotherapy efforts. Braman passed away on July 17, 2025, surrounded by his daughters, Blakely (11) and Marlowe (8), and his mother, Tina. His agent, Sean Stellato, called him a “warrior in every sense,” reflecting the profound impact of his loss.
Bryan Braman’s Net Worth and Career Earnings
NFL Contract Earnings
As a special teams player and backup linebacker, Braman’s contracts were modest compared to NFL superstars, but his seven-year career provided a solid financial foundation. Below is a breakdown of his known contracts:
- Houston Texans (2011–2013): Braman signed a three-year, $1.44 million rookie contract as an undrafted free agent in 2011, with an average annual value of $480,000. The deal included a minimal signing bonus ($5,000–$10,000) and base salaries of $405,000 (2011), $480,000 (2012), and $555,000 (2013). Total earnings were approximately $1.44 million.
- Philadelphia Eagles (2014–2015): In March 2014, Braman signed a two-year, $3.15 million contract, averaging $1.575 million annually. This included a $500,000 signing bonus and base salaries of $1.2 million (2014) and $1.45 million (2015). Total earnings were $3.15 million.
- Philadelphia Eagles (2016): Braman signed a one-year, $840,000 contract, with a $760,000 base salary and an $80,000 signing bonus. Total earnings were $840,000.
- New Orleans Saints and Eagles (2017): Braman earned an estimated $20,000–$30,000 from a brief stint on the Saints’ practice squad (prorated from $122,400 for a full season). His return to the Eagles for the playoffs likely included a veteran minimum deal with playoff bonuses, estimated at $100,000–$200,000.
Total NFL Salary Earnings: Braman’s career salaries total approximately $5.55–$5.65 million. After federal and state taxes (40–45%, reducing take-home to ~$3.05–$3.39 million), agent fees (3–5%, ~$166,500–$282,500), and living expenses, his net earnings from NFL contracts are estimated at $2.5–$2.8 million.
Endorsements and Appearance Fees
Braman’s role as a special teams player limited his endorsement opportunities compared to high-profile NFL stars. However, his “Barbarian” nickname and viral moments, like the 2011 helmetless tackle, earned him a cult following in Houston and Philadelphia, likely leading to local sponsorships and appearance fees. Industry estimates suggest role players of his caliber earn $50,000–$200,000 annually from endorsements, autograph signings, and community events. Over seven seasons, Braman likely earned $350,000–$1.4 million, with a conservative estimate of $500,000–$800,000 after taxes.
Post-NFL Income
After retiring in 2018, Braman settled in Spokane, Washington, focusing on family and community involvement. While specific post-NFL ventures are not well-documented, former players like Braman often engage in coaching, youth camps, or local businesses, earning $20,000–$50,000 annually. From 2018 to 2025, this could have added $140,000–$350,000 to his earnings. The GoFundMe campaign ($88,400) offset medical costs but did not contribute to his net worth.
Financial Challenges and Expenses
Several factors impacted Braman’s financial standing:
- Taxes: NFL players face high tax rates, with Braman likely paying 40–45% on his $5.55–$5.65 million in salaries, reducing take-home to $3.05–$3.39 million.
- Medical Costs: His 2025 cancer treatment, including surgeries and CAR T-cell therapy, incurred significant out-of-pocket expenses, with the GoFundMe noting housing and caregiving costs as major burdens.
- Lifestyle and Family: As a father of two, Braman supported his daughters and mother, Tina, in Spokane. His modest lifestyle, exemplified by giving his bed to his agent during visits, suggests prudent spending.
- Agent Fees: Standard NFL agent fees (3–5%) cost $166,500–$282,500 over his career.
Estimated Net Worth
Combining NFL salaries ($5.55–$5.65 million), endorsements ($500,000–$800,000), and post-NFL income ($140,000–$350,000), Braman’s gross career earnings are estimated at $6.19–$6.8 million. After taxes ($2.48–$3.06 million), agent fees ($166,500–$282,500), and medical/living expenses ($1.5–$2 million, including 2025 treatment costs), his net worth at the time of his passing is estimated at $1.5–$2 million.
Bryan Braman’s Lasting Legacy
On-Field Impact
Braman’s career was defined by his relentless special teams play and clutch postseason moments. His 2011 helmetless tackle, 2012 blocked punt for a touchdown, and Super Bowl LII contributions—including a blocked punt and a critical tackle—earned him a reputation as a fearless competitor. J.J. Watt called him a “brother,” while Emmanuel Acho praised his resilience, noting he “never complained” despite a tough journey. Former Eagles coach Matthew Harper lauded his energy, and Jordan Matthews credited his pregame speeches for galvanizing the team.
Off-Field Influence
Braman’s off-field impact was equally profound. Known for his selflessness, he gave his bed to agent Sean Stellato during visits to Philadelphia, a gesture that reflected his character. In a rare interview, Braman named his daughters, Blakely and Marlowe, as one of his greatest achievements, alongside his NFL career and Super Bowl ring. His community efforts, including youth coaching in Texas post-retirement, furthered his influence. The $88,400 GoFundMe campaign, supported by teammates and fans, underscored his widespread respect.
Tributes from the NFL Community
Following his passing, tributes poured in across social media. J.J. Watt wrote, “Rest in Peace brother. Gone far too soon,” while Emmanuel Acho shared, “I didn’t intend on crying this morning. Then I read the news on my teammate, Bryan Braman.” The Eagles stated, “During his four seasons in Philadelphia, Bryan was a loyal teammate, a supporter of the community, and a valuable member of our Super Bowl LII-winning team.” The Texans echoed, mourning a fan favorite. Contributions from players like Chris Long and Brent Celek to his GoFundMe highlighted the NFL’s brotherhood.
Conclusion
Bryan Braman’s journey from an undrafted free agent to a Super Bowl LII champion embodies the power of perseverance. His estimated net worth of $1.5–$2 million, built on $5.55–$5.65 million in NFL earnings and modest endorsements, reflects his success as a role player despite the financial toll of his cancer battle. Survived by his daughters, Blakely and Marlowe, and his mother, Tina, Braman leaves a legacy of heart, leadership, and community impact. His story inspires NFL fans and players to fight for every opportunity.
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