O.J. Brigance, former Ravens linebacker, dies at 56

O.J. Brigance, a former Ravens linebacker and the team's longtime adviser in player engagement, has died after a 19-year battle with ALS, the team announced Monday. He was 56.

Brigance won a Super Bowl with the Ravens in 2000 and served as inspiration to the organization for nearly two decades with his determination to fight the disease and surpass the initial prognosis. Diagnosed with ALS in 2007 at age 37, he was told he had 2-5 years to live.

Brigance is the only player to win a Super Bowl and a Grey Cup for the same city. In 1995, he won the Grey Cup with the Baltimore Stallions, and in January 2001 he recorded the Ravens' first tackle in their Super Bowl victory over the New York Giants, running down the field to make the stop on the opening kickoff.

Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti called Brigance "a beloved legend, mentor and man to everyone who was fortunate enough to know him," saying his smile and the way he lived and played "endeared him to everyone he touched, both inside our building and across this city." General manager Eric DeCosta said the team never once saw Brigance angry or frustrated by his disease, instead witnessing "a hero who influenced so many people through his unwavering optimism…

With the help of his wife Chanda, Brigance established the Brigance Brigade Foundation, which raised millions to "equip, encourage and empower" those with ALS.