Ravens Legend O.J. Brigance Dies at 56 After 19-Year ALS Battle: 'The Strongest Man in the Organization'
OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- The Baltimore Ravens lost a cornerstone of their soul on Monday. O.J. Brigance, the former linebacker who became the organization's beating heart during a relentless 19-year fight against ALS, has died at 56.
Brigance wasn't just a Super Bowl champion. He was the standard. The man who defied a 2-to-5-year prognosis after being diagnosed at 37 in 2007, and turned a terminal diagnosis into a legacy of purpose.
A champion in every sense
In 2000, Brigance won it all with the Ravens. He even recorded the team's first tackle in their Super Bowl blowout of the Giants—on the opening kickoff, no less. But his greatness wasn't locked to the field. He remains the only athlete ever to win both a Super Bowl and a Grey Cup in the same city, hoisting the Canadian trophy with the Baltimore Stallions in 1995.
When ALS took his voice, Brigance didn't go silent. He communicated through eye-tracking tech, sending notes of encouragement to players during their darkest hours. That's why Ray Lewis handed him the AFC championship trophy in 2013 and said, 'You're my greatest motivation.' That's why Ed Reed, in his Hall of Fame speech, told the world, 'You're the reason why I'm here, man.'
'O.J. was a beloved legend, mentor and man to everyone who was fortunate enough to know him,' said Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti. 'His infectious smile and the inspirational way he lived and played endeared him to everyone he touched.'
Former coach John Harbaugh called him 'the strongest man in the organization.' GM Eric DeCosta echoed that, saying, 'We never once saw O.J. angry or frustrated by his disease. Instead, we all witnessed a hero.'
A family's fight
With his wife Chanda by his side, Brigance co-founded the Brigance Brigade Foundation, raising millions to equip, encourage and empower those living with ALS. His 2023 words to ESPN say it all: 'When difficulties impact our lives, we will be presented with the opportunity to assist others experiencing the same journey.'
O.J. Brigance didn't lose his battle. He redefined it. And Baltimore will never be the same.