Baltimore Ravens legend O.J. Brigance dies at 56 after heroic battle with ALS

“We are devastated by the awful news that we have lost O.J. Brigance," said Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti. "O.J. was a beloved legend, mentor, and man to everyone who was fortunate enough to know him."

Brigance made the first tackle for the Ravens in Super Bowl XXXV before helping the team lift their first-ever Lombardi Trophy. Two years after retiring at the end of the 2002 season, the Ravens hired him as the director of player development.

He was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS) in 2007, but continued to be a senior advisor in player development for the Ravens and a pillar of the Baltimore community until his passing. 

Bisciotti continued: "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."

"I am devastated and at a loss for words," said Ravens Executive Vice President Ozzie Newsome. "O.J. was one of the most genuine, sincere people I have ever known. From the moment he arrived in Baltimore, you could feel his energy. His amazing smile, welcoming nature and infectious personality made everyone around him feel like family.

"He was a hero to this city long before his courageous battle with ALS, and became an even greater inspiration in the way he faced it with the same fight, faith, and grace he brought to the football field.

"O.J.'s service to our community, to the Ravens, and the fight for a cure for ALS will never be forgotten. He was and always will be a beloved mentor and man. With heartfelt sorrow, we extend our deepest sympathies to Chanda and the Brigance family."

Brigance wasn't a legend for his work on the field, but for his work off it. 

He spent just one season with the Ravens (2000), but was part of arguably the greatest defense to ever grace a football field. His 12 tackles that season were the most he's ever put up in a season, despite spending the first four years of his career with the Miami Dolphins and, basically, two years with the St. Louis Rams (2001-2002), with a brief one-game stint with the New England Patriots in Week 1.

After his diagnosis in 2007, Brigance and his wife, Chanda, created the Brigance Brigade Foundation, dedicated to those with ALS. The charity is as strong as ever, receiving around $550,000 in donations each year, which also helps fund over 250 grants.

Their foundation helps those with family members diagnosed with ALS, providing funds for equipment, home modifications, and financial coverage.

Baltimore's season kicks off on September 13th against the Indianapolis Colts. No word has been released as of yet on a jersey patch or helmet patch dedicated to Brigance. But it's expected that the team will honor him this season.