Ex-NFL quarterback Ryan Mallett has died after he drowned on Tuesday while on vacation in Florida with his girlfriend Madison Carter. 

His death was confirmed on Facebook by the White Hall School District in Arkansas, where he worked as the head football coach. 

“It is with great sadness that we share the loss of Coach Ryan Mallett. Coach Mallett was a beloved coach and educator,” the statement read. “We ask that you remember his family, team, students, fellow coaches, and the White Hall School District staff in your prayers.”

The drowning was first reported on Tuesday afternoon by the Sheriff’s Department in Okaloosa County. In the report, it states that someone spotted swimmers that were struggling in the water. 

The department disclosed that “one of the individuals, an adult male, went under and lifeguards say he was not breathing when pulled out. Lifesaving measures were immediately undertaken but the man was pronounced deceased at the Destin Emergency Room.”

In an update, they identified the victim as Mallett and offered his family their condolences, “We send our heartfelt sympathies to his family, friends, and loved ones in his tragic passing.”

IN MEMORIAM 2022: 100 GREAT CELEBRITIES WHO DIED IN 2022

It is possible that the cause of death is from the dangerous rip currents that are currently plaguing the Gulf Coast. There have been multiple casualties in the nearby areas and authorities have been warning beachgoers.

Mallett, who was born in Arkansas, began his football career in college for the University of Michigan Wolverines. He later transferred to the University of Arkansas and played for the Razorbacks. 

After college, he was drafted by the New England Patriots in the 2011 NFL Draft. He played as backup to quarterback Tom Brady. 

In 2014, he was traded by the Patriots to the Houston Texans. He then switched to the Baltimore Ravens from 2015 until 2017. 

The New England Patriots tweeted their sympathies about Mallett’s passing, which included a photo of Mallett when he played on their team. 

“The New England Patriots are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of former quarterback Ryan Mallett,” the team said. “Our thoughts are with the Mallett family, his former teammates and all who are mourning his loss.”

Brady similarly expressed his condolences on his Instagram story posting a picture of him and Mallett together. Brady captioned the photo, “We lost a great man. Thank you for everything Ryan. Praying for the Mallett family and all their loved ones tonight 🙏”

Leave a comment

Read more about: