Photo: Baltimore Ravens
O.J. Brigance has died at the age of 56, it was announced on Monday.
The native of Houston, Texas spent five seasons with the B.C. Lions and Baltimore Stallions, winning a Grey Cup in his final CFL season in 1995.
He played 90 career regular-season games, recording 322 defensive tackles, 53 special teams tackles, 35 sacks, nine fumble recoveries, and two interceptions.
“As great of a player as O.J. Brigance was, he was an even better individual,” said former teammate and current Lions director of community partnerships Jamie Taras in a statement.
“He had such a positive energy about him, no matter the day or the circumstance. O.J. was someone that everybody rallied around. He had that kind of presence about him and was a terrific teammate who was loved by everybody in the organization. Our thoughts are with his wife Chanda and their entire family at this difficult time.”
The six-foot, 236-pound defender spent the next seven years in the NFL as a member of the Miami Dolphins, Baltimore Ravens, St. Louis Rams, and New England Patriots.
He made 42 total tackles, three forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries over 98 career regular-season games.
Brigance retired following the 2002 season and was hired as Baltimore’s director of player development in 2004, a role he held until his death. He won the Best Overall Player Development Program award in 2005 and 2006.
He was diagnosed with ALS in 2007, which led he and his wife, Chanda, to found the Brigance Brigade Foundation, a nonprofit designed to raise money and awareness about the disease.
“We are devastated by the awful news that we have lost O.J. Brigance. O.J. was a beloved legend, mentor and man to everyone who was fortunate enough to know him. He was a vibrant person who became one of the first Ravens heroes with his passionate play, including the first tackle in the 2000 Super Bowl,” said Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti.
“Known for his big smile and welcoming nature, it was easy to feel a special connection with O.J. from the moment you met him. His infectious smile and the inspirational way he lived and played endeared him to everyone he touched, both inside our building and across this city.
“This is a tremendously sad day for Baltimore. O.J. will be remembered for his service to our community, to the Ravens and to the fight to find a cure for ALS. With heavy hearts, the Ravens organization extends our deepest condolences to Chanda and the entire Brigance family. We are saddened by this loss, and O.J.’s spirit will remain part of this community forever.”
Brigance is the only player ever to win a Grey Cup and a Super Bowl for the same city.
