Former Arkansas quarterback Ryan Mallett, who had a successful career in the NFL, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 35. The tragic incident occurred while Mallett was on vacation in Destin, Florida, when he encountered difficulties while swimming in the ocean.
Tragic Loss of Coach Ryan Mallett
Ryan Mallett, aged 35, was visiting the beach in Destin, Florida, when he was found unresponsive in the water. Lifeguards immediately took action and pulled him out, but despite their efforts to save him, Mallett was pronounced dead upon arrival at the Destin Emergency Room, according to a news release by the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office.
Heartfelt Condolences for a Beloved Coach
Upon the news of Ryan Mallett’s passing, tributes and condolences poured in from all corners. The White Hall School District, where Mallett had served as a coach and educator, expressed their profound sadness in a statement. They requested that the community keep Mallett’s family, team, students, fellow coaches, and the White Hall School District staff in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Accomplishments on the Field
We are shocked and saddened by the passing of Ryan Mallett. 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… pic.twitter.com/aYlMOBkHAV
— Arkansas Razorback Football (@RazorbackFB) June 27, 2023
Ryan Mallett’s football journey began at the University of Michigan before he transferred to Arkansas. He showcased his talent as the starting quarterback for the Razorbacks, playing a combined 26 games during the 2009 and 2010 seasons. Under the guidance of coach Bobby Petrino, Mallett led the team to an 8-5 record in 2009, securing a victory in the Liberty Bowl and earning the Offensive MVP title.
His most outstanding season was in 2010, where he threw for an impressive 3,869 yards and 32 touchdowns. Mallett’s exceptional performance earned him second-team All-SEC honors for the second consecutive year and placed him seventh in the voting for the 2010 Heisman Trophy.
Remembering Ryan Mallett
The Arkansas Razorbacks community mourned the loss of Ryan Mallett, emphasizing his special presence within the football program. Arkansas Athletic Director Hunter Yurachek expressed his condolences on Twitter, emphasizing the impact Mallett had on his family, friends, and teammates. The hashtag #OneRazorback accompanied the heartfelt message, signifying the unity and shared grief among those connected to the Razorbacks.
NFL Career and Patriots’ Connection
The NFL family is deeply saddened by the passing of Ryan Mallett. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. pic.twitter.com/FvdhQmrTh6
— NFL (@NFL) June 27, 2023
In the 2011 NFL draft, the New England Patriots selected Ryan Mallett as the 74th overall pick in the third round. Coach Bill Belichick explained the decision, stating that the team recognized Mallett’s talent and winning track record throughout his career. Mallett joined the Patriots as one of the backup quarterbacks supporting Tom Brady.
Despite limited playing time with the Patriots due to Brady’s durability, Mallett’s potential was evident to Belichick. The coach acknowledged Mallett’s success in a pro-style offense during his time at Arkansas under Petrino, praising his abilities and football intelligence.
A Life Cut Short
Following his tenure with the Patriots, Mallett was traded to the Houston Texans before the 2014 season. He played nine games, making six starts, over two seasons with the Texans. However, his time in Houston came to an end when he was released in October 2015. Mallett then joined the Baltimore Ravens, where he played until 2017.
Q1: Who was Ryan Mallett?
A1: Ryan Mallett was a former quarterback for the University of Arkansas and went on to play in the NFL for several teams.
Q2: How did Ryan Mallett pass away?
A2: Ryan Mallett tragically passed away while swimming in the ocean during a vacation in Destin, Florida.
Q3: What was Ryan Mallett’s career in college football?
A3: Ryan Mallett started his college career at the University of Michigan before transferring to the University of Arkansas. He had successful seasons with the Razorbacks, including leading them to an 8-5 record and a win in the Liberty Bowl in 2009.
Q4: What were Ryan accomplishments in college football?
A4: Ryan Mallett had an impressive 2010 season, throwing for 3,869 yards and 32 touchdowns. He earned second-team All-SEC honors and finished seventh in the voting for the 2010 Heisman Trophy.
Q5: How did Ryan’s career progress in the NFL?
A5: Ryan Mallett was drafted by the New England Patriots in the third round of the 2011 NFL draft. He served as a backup quarterback to Tom Brady but had limited playing time. He later played for the Houston Texans and the Baltimore Ravens.
