Ryan Mallett, a former NFL quarterback and Arkansas Razorbacks legend, died on Tuesday at the age of 35 after drowning in the Gulf of Mexico.
The shocking news has left his family, friends and fans in grief and disbelief.
How did the talented and successful athlete end up losing his life in such a tragic way?
Here is what we know so far.
Who is Ryan Mallett?
Ryan Mallett was a former professional football player who played as a quarterback for the New England Patriots, the Houston Texans and the Baltimore Ravens in the NFL.
He was drafted by the Patriots in the third round of the 2011 NFL Draft after a stellar college career at Arkansas, where he broke several program passing records and led the team to a Sugar Bowl appearance in 2010.
He was born in Batesville, Arkansas, and attended Texas High School in Texarkana, Texas, where he was a highly-rated recruit and an All-American.
His college career started at Michigan but transferred to Arkansas after his freshman season.
Ryan Mallett sat out the 2008 season due to NCAA transfer rules and became the starter for the Razorbacks in 2009.
He threw for 7,493 yards and 62 touchdowns in two seasons at Arkansas, earning second-team All-SEC honors both years.
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Mallet also set school records for passing yards, touchdowns, completions and attempts in a single season.
He declared for the NFL Draft after his junior season and was selected by the Patriots as the 74th overall pick.
Ryan Mallett spent three seasons as a backup to Tom Brady before being traded to the Texans in 2014.
He started six games for the Texans in 2014 and 2015, throwing for 1,170 yards and five touchdowns.
Mallet signed with the Ravens in 2015 and played three seasons as a backup to Joe Flacco, throwing for 1,038 yards and four touchdowns.
He last played in the NFL in 2017 and retired from professional football in 2018.
He became the head coach of his high school football team, the White Hall Bulldogs, in 2020.
How did Ryan Mallett drown?
According to reports, Mallett drowned on Tuesday afternoon while swimming at a beach in Destin, Florida, about 45 miles west of Panama City Beach.
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office said that Mallett was part of a group of swimmers who were struggling to make their way back to shore from the second sandbar.
Mallett went underwater and was not breathing when lifeguards pulled him out.
He was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.
The sheriff’s office said that no foul play was suspected and that an autopsy would be conducted to determine the cause of death.
The sheriff’s office also said that there were dangerous rip currents in the area at the time of the incident and that several other swimmers had to be rescued by lifeguards.
Mallett’s death came amid a spate of drownings along Florida’s Gulf Coast, where swim-at-your-own-risk and swimming-prohibited signs have been posted at some beaches due to hazardous conditions.
How did people react to Ryan Mallett death?
The sudden loss of Ryan Mallett has triggered an outpouring of heartfelt condolences and tributes from those who knew him best—his former teammates, coaches, friends, and devoted fans. Social media platforms have become a space for sharing the profound sadness felt throughout the NFL community.
In a poignant statement, the NFL expressed its deep sorrow, emphasizing that Ryan’s passing has left a void and offering thoughts of solace to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.
The New England Patriots, profoundly affected by the tragic news, conveyed their extreme sadness.
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They reflected on Ryan’s exceptional character and unwavering loyalty, acknowledging him as an extraordinary individual and a teammate who will be greatly missed.
Baltimore Ravens, learning of Ryan’s untimely departure, expressed their sadness and emphasized his remarkable qualities as a teammate—a constant source of positivity, always wearing a smile that radiated warmth and camaraderie.
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Houston Texans, devastated by the loss, shared their profound heartbreak.
They paid tribute to Ryan as an exemplary competitor, known for his relentless work ethic and unwavering dedication.
The Arkansas Razorbacks, deeply affected by the passing of one of their all-time greats, conveyed their devastation.
They acknowledged Ryan’s immense contributions and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.
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In addition, the White Hall School District mourned the loss of Ryan, recognizing him as a beloved coach and educator who touched the lives of many with his positive influence.
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