Former NFL Quarterback Ryan Mallett Dead At 35 Years Old

Former NFL quarterback Ryan Mallett, who played for the New England Patriots, Houston Texans, and Baltimore Ravens during his five pro seasons, has died. He was just 35 years old at the time of his tragic passing.

The Arkansas alum was reportedly spending some time relaxing in Destin, Florida, on Tuesday when he died in an apparent drowning accident, according to the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office. They state that Mallett was stuck on a sandbar and drowned while attempting to make it back to land.

Many people expressed their condolences for the loss and memories of Mallett. In particular, the coaches and organizations that he played for at every level put out statements either to the media or online expressing their gratitude for knowing him or sharing stories about the former QB.

“Ryan was a part of us,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said in a Twitter post via the franchise. “I will always remember the love he had for his teammates and for making the most of, and enjoying every football day while here.”

Although Mallett was drafted by Bill Belichick and New England, he never really blossomed into the potential starter there and eventually became known as more of a backup around the NFL. However, his best season came in 2015, when he split eight appearances between stints for the Patriots and Ravens – starting in six of those games, Mallett threw for 1,336 yards, 5 touchdowns, and six interceptions.

Ryan Mallett previously played for the University of Michigan for one season before finishing his collegiate career as an Arkansas Razorback. He passed for 7,493 yards and 62 touchdowns in two seasons with the Razorbacks. He was selected by New England in the third round of the 2011 NFL draft.

At the time of his passing, Ryan Mallett had been serving as a football coach at White Hall High School in his home state of Arkansas.

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