Former NFL quarterback Ryan Mallett has died by drowning while on holiday with his girlfriend in Florida.
Mallett, who spent his career playing for the likes of the New England Patriots, Houston Texans and Baltimore Ravens, was said to be among a group of people who began struggling in the water in the coastal town of Destin, according to Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office.
People from the area told Deltaplex News that the other nine-to-12 people in the group made it to safety, but the footballer, who was just 35 years old, went under the water offshore from Gulf Shore Drive.
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Lifeguards managed to pull him out, but the sheriff's office said 'lifesaving measures were not successful'.
The New England Patriots paid tribute to the former player after news of his death emerged, saying in a statement: "The New England Patriots are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of former quarterback Ryan Mallett.
"Our thoughts are with the Mallett family, his former teammates and all who are mourning his loss."
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The Baltimore Ravens also shared kind words about Mallett in the wake of his death, describing him as a 'tremendous person and a loyal team-mate'.
"He had an infectious personality, and throughout his time as a Raven, Ryan's charisma and joy for being around the team were consistently on display," the team added.
John Harbaugh, head coach of the Ravens, released a statement of his own, saying: "Ryan was a part of us. I will always remember the love he had for his team-mates and for making the most of and enjoying every football day while here."
Emily Brown