Ryan Mallett.Photo:Butch Dill/AP Photo
Butch Dill/AP Photo
Former NFL quarterback Ryan Mallettdied in an apparent drowning, police in Destin, Florida confirmed Tuesday night. He was 35 years old.
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Officesaid in a statementthat first responders were called to the beach in Destin, Florida shortly after 2 p.m. local time following a report that a group of people in the water were “struggling to make their way back to shore.”
Mallett “went under and lifeguards say he was not breathing when pulled out,” police said.“Lifesaving measures were immediately undertaken,” but Mallett was pronounced dead at the Destin Emergency Room, the sheriff’s office said.
Ryan Mallett.Nick Wass/AP Photo
Nick Wass/AP Photo
On Tuesday, the White Hall School District in Arkansas, where Mallett worked as the head football coach, confirmed his death on their officialFacebookpage.
“It is with great sadness that we share the loss of Coach Ryan Mallett. Coach Mallett was a beloved coach and educator,” the post read. “We ask that you remember his family, team, students, fellow coaches, and the White Hall School District staff in your prayers.”
Ryan Mallett.Wesley Hitt/Getty
Wesley Hitt/Getty
Mallett’s former teams and several former teammatesshared their condolences and grief in tributes on social media.
“The New England Patriots are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of former quarterback Ryan Mallett,” the NFL teamtweetedTuesday with a picture of Mallet. “Our thoughts are with the Mallett family, his former teammates and all who are mourning his loss.”
Mallett’s former Texans teammateJ.J. Watttook toTwitteron Tuesday, where he wrote, “Rest in Peace brother.”
“Horrible news to read about Ryan Mallett,” Watt, 34, tweeted. “Gone way too soon.”
Mallett appeared in eight games over three seasons for the Ravens, throwing for 648 yards and four touchdowns to three interceptions,Sports Illustratedreports.
He was a star prospect out of Texas High in Texarkana and was named the offensive MVP of the Liberty Bowl in 2010. Mallett was later named All-SEC second team in 2009 and 2010 before getting drafted to the NFL.
source: people.com
