O.J. Brigance, beloved Raven who battled ALS for almost two decades, dies at 56

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Former Ravens linebacker and team official O.J. Brigance, whose 19-year fight with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis made him one of the franchise’s most beloved and inspiring figures, has died, the team announced Monday. He was 56.

Brigance had served as the team’s longtime senior adviser to player development until recent months, when his condition worsened. Brigance, a Grey Cup- and Super Bowl-winning player in Baltimore, was diagnosed in 2007 with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, a fatal neurodegenerative disorder named after the Hall of Fame baseball player that attacks nerve cells that control muscles throughout the body.

Only an estimated 20% of ALS patients live past five years of their diagnosis. But Brigance remained a fixture around the team’s Owings Mills facility and in the community for nearly two decades. He and his wife, Chanda, founded the Brigance Brigade Foundation, a nonprofit that has raised money and awareness to support people living with ALS and their families.

In statements, Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti and executive vice president Ozzie Newsome said they were “devastated” by his death.

“O.J. was a beloved legend, mentor and man to everyone who was fortunate enough to know him,” Bisciotti said in a statement. “He was a vibrant person who became one of the first Ravens heroes with his passionate play, including the first tackle in the 2000 Super Bowl.

“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.”

Added 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.”

This story will be updated.