Ryan Mallett: Former NFL QB dies aged 35 ‘after drowning incident’ in Florida

Former football player Ryan Mallett has passed away at the age of 35.

Mallett, who played in the NFL with the New England Patriots, Houston Texans and Baltimore Ravens, drowned in Destin, Florida, according to multiple outlets.

Deltaplex News first reported the tragedy on Tuesday, before the Patriots and the NFL confirmed the news. He was taken from a Florida beach to the hospital – where he was pronounced dead.

Mallett was on vacation with his girlfriend Madison Carter, KNWA reported. The ex-player went Facebook official with Carter less than a month ago, on June 1.

‘The New England Patriots are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of former quarterback Ryan Mallett,’ the team wrote on Twitter.

Ryan Mallett became the football coach at White Hall High School in Arkansas last year

Former football player Mallett (pictured in 2012, right) has passed away at the age of 35

The ex-quarterback played alongside Tom Brady with New England Patriots from 2011-2013

JJ Watt took to Twitter to honor his former teammate, who has passed away at the age of 35

‘Our thoughts are with the Mallett family, his former teammates and all who are mourning his loss.’

Legendary Patriots coach Bill Belichick offered a similar sentiment, saying, ‘I am extremely saddened by Ryan’s tragic passing. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and the many people whose lives he touched.’

Mallett played in the NFL from 2011 to 2017 after a college career with Michigan and Arkansas, and threw 62 touchdowns in two seasons with the Razorbacks.

He returned to the latter state to coach at White Hall High School, taking up the role in February 2022.

‘It is with great sadness that we share the loss of Coach Ryan Mallett,’ White Hall School District said in a statement on Tuesday. 

‘Coach Mallett was a beloved coach and educator. We ask that you remember his family, team, students, fellow coaches, and the White Hall School District staff in your prayers.’

‘We are shocked and saddened by the passing of Ryan Mallett,’ the Arkansas football program wrote on Twitter.

‘He was a Razorback legend with larger-than-life talent and a personality to match. He led our program to some of our best moments in recent memory. He will be missed by everyone who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his mother Debbie and his extended family.’

Mallett starred for the Arkansas Razorbacks before going onto a career in the NFL

Mallett served as a backup to Tom Brady for two seasons while with the New England Patriots

He later played for the Ravens, finishing his career with the franchise in 2017

Recent reports show that there have been extremely dangerous conditions along the Gulf Coast, with CNN reporting Tuesday that 11 people have died in rip currents in a two-week span.

Mallett was teammates with legendary quarterback Tom Brady for two seasons after he was drafted in the third round 12 years ago. 

The former Razorback also shared a locker room for two seasons with JJ Watt, while both players were on the Texans.

And the legendary defensive end honored his ex-teammate on Twitter Tuesday night.

‘Horrible news to read about Ryan Mallett,’ he said.’Gone way too soon. Rest in Peace brother.’

ESPN analyst and former Colts punter Pat McAfee also paid tribute to Mallett.

‘Mann… Rest Easy Ryan Mallett,’ he wrote. ‘I had the opportunity to have a few beers with Ryan and I always appreciated his kindness.

‘WE NEVER KNOW WHEN OUR TIME IS COMING… life is finite. Let’s never forget that.’

Former Patriots running back James White (not a teammate of Mallet’s), ex-Steelers defensive back Ryan Clark and ex-Ravens wide receiver also offered their condolences.