Ryan Mallett: Former NFL QB dies aged 35 ‘after drowning incident’ in Florida

Former football player Ryan Mallett has passed away at the age of 35.

Mallett, who played in the NFL with the New England Patriots, Houston Texans and Baltimore Ravens, drowned in Florida.

Deltaplex News first reported the tragedy on Tuesday, before the Patriots and the NFL confirmed the news. He was taken from a Florida beach to the hospital – where he was pronounced dead.

‘The New England Patriots are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of former quarterback Ryan Mallett,’ the team wrote on Twitter.

‘Our thoughts are with the Mallett family, his former teammates and all who are mourning his loss.’

Legendary Patriots coach Bill Belichick offered a similar sentiment, saying, ‘I am extremely saddened by Ryan’s tragic passing. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and the many people whose lives he touched.’

The ex-quarterback played alongside Tom Brady with New England Patriots from 2011-2013

JJ Watt took to Twitter to honor his former teammate, who has passed away at the age of 35

Mallett played in the NFL from 2011 to 2017 after a college career with Michigan and Arkansas.

He returned to the latter state to coach at White Hall High School, taking up the role in February 2022.

Recent reports show that there have been extremely dangerous conditions along the Gulf Coast, with CNN saying Tuesday that 11 people have died in rip currents in a two-week span.

Mallett was teammates with legendary quarterback Tom Brady for two seasons after he was drafted in the third round 12 years ago. 

The former Razorback also shared a locker room for two seasons with JJ Watt, while both players were on the Texans.

And the legendary defensive end honored his ex-teammate on Twitter Tuesday night.

‘Horrible news to read about Ryan Mallett,’ he said.’Gone way too soon. Rest in Peace brother.’

Ryan Mallett starred for the Arkansas Razorbacks before going onto a career in the NFL

Mallett served as a backup to Tom Brady for two seasons while with the New England Patriots

He later played for the Ravens, finishing his career with the franchise in 2017

ESPN analyst and former Colts punter Pat McAfee also paid tribute to Mallett.

‘Mann… Rest Easy Ryan Mallett,’ he wrote. ‘I had the opportunity to have a few beers with Ryan and I always appreciated his kindness.

‘WE NEVER KNOW WHEN OUR TIME IS COMING… life is finite. Let’s never forget that.’

Former Patriots running back James White (not a teammate of Mallet’s), ex-Steelers defensive back Ryan Clark and ex-Ravens wide receiver also offered their condolences.