Ryan Mallett: NFL Tragedy

It is with great sorrow that we report the passing of Ryan Mallett, a former NFL quarterback who had a distinguished career in the league spanning five seasons. Mallett, renowned for his exceptional collegiate achievements at Arkansas, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 35.

According to the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office in Florida, Mallett's death was the result of an apparent drowning incident. Emergency services were alerted to a beach in Destin, where Mallett and a group of individuals were facing difficulties in the water. Lifeguards retrieved Mallett from the water but were unsuccessful in resuscitating him. He was subsequently pronounced dead at a hospital in Destin.

In recent years, Mallett had transitioned into the role of a teacher and head football coach at White Hall High School in Arkansas. The White Hall School District expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Coach Ryan Mallett, describing him as a beloved coach and educator. They kindly requested prayers for his family, students, colleagues, as well as the school district staff.

Mallett was drafted by the New England Patriots in the third round of the 2011 NFL Draft. He played for the Patriots for three seasons before being traded to the Houston Texans in 2014. After spending one season with the Texans, Mallett joined the Baltimore Ravens in 2015. His final appearance in the NFL came in 2017. In 2021, Mallett participated in the developmental Spring League.

The NFL and various teams expressed their condolences on social media. The league conveyed its deep sadness regarding Mallett's passing and extended sympathies to his family and loved ones. The New England Patriots, with whom Mallett began his NFL career, shared a tweet expressing their sadness and offering their thoughts to the Mallett family and his former teammates. Similarly, the Houston Texans and the Arkansas Razorbacks, Mallett's college team, expressed their condolences.

Ryan Mallett had an illustrious college career, initially starting at the University of Michigan before transferring to Arkansas. He led the Razorbacks to a successful 2010 season, which included an appearance in the Sugar Bowl. Arkansas Athletic Director Hunter Yurachek and the Razorbacks football program conveyed their grief and offered their thoughts and prayers to Mallett's family, friends, and teammates.

Friends and colleagues from other sports also paid tribute to Mallett. Former MLB infielder Will Middlebrooks, who attended high school with Mallett, fondly remembered him on social media.

During this difficult time, we extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Ryan Mallett.