DESTIN, Fla. (AP) — Ryan Mallett, a former Arkansas quarterback who had played for teams including New England, Houston, and Baltimore during his five-year NFL career, has tragically died at the age of 35.
Ryan Mallett Death News
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office has reported that Mallett passed away in an apparent drowning incident. Mallett, who was coaching football at White Hall High School in his hometown of Arkansas, was mourned by the school district, which confirmed his untimely death in a statement on its website.
Arkansas athletic director Hunter Yurachek expressed deep sadness over the loss, acknowledging that the university had lost an exceptional individual. Yurachek took to Twitter to offer his condolences, stating, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and teammates of Ryan Mallett.”
Mallett’s football journey began at the University of Michigan, where he spent one season before transferring to Arkansas to finish his college career. In his time with the Razorbacks, he showcased his talent by throwing for 7,493 yards and 62 touchdowns over two seasons.
Selected by the New England Patriots in the third round of the 2011 NFL draft, Mallett made appearances in four games during the 2012 season, completing 1 of 4 passes for 17 yards. New England’s head coach, Bill Belichick, expressed deep sorrow at the news, extending his sympathies to Mallett’s family and all those whose lives had been touched by him.
Mallett went on to make six starts in nine games with the Houston Texans and two starts in eight appearances with the Baltimore Ravens. In his NFL career, he completed 190 of 345 attempts for 1,835 yards and nine touchdowns, with 10 interceptions.
The Baltimore Ravens’ head coach, John Harbaugh, remembered Mallett fondly, emphasizing the quarterback’s love for his teammates and his ability to make the most of every day on the football field.
On November 16, 2014, Mallett made his first start for the Texans, leading them to a 23-7 victory over the Cleveland Browns. It was during this game that he threw his first career touchdown pass, a 2-yarder to defensive end J.J. Watt. Watt expressed his grief on Twitter, lamenting the tragic news and bidding farewell to his fallen brother.
The passing of Ryan Mallett is a heartbreaking loss for the football community. His talent, potential, and the memories he created will forever be remembered. May he rest in peace.
“Horrible news to read about Ryan Mallett,” Watt posted on Twitter. “Gone way too soon. Rest in Peace brother.”