Raven Country

Ravens, Harbaugh Mourn Ryan Mallett; Sheriff Warns of ‘Deadly’ Gulf Coast Beaches

The Gulf Coast, where Ravens ex QB Ryan Mallett died, has seen 11 drowning deaths in the last two weeks alone, making it the deadliest beach in the U.S.

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As the Baltimore Ravens continue to join the NFL universe in mourning the loss of former quarterback Ryan Mallett, who tragically passed away on Tuesday at the age of 35, new details are beginning to emerge regarding the circumstances surrounding his untimely death. 

Mallett, who played with the Ravens from 2015-2017, drowned in the ocean near Destin, Florida - an area where beachgoers have been warned to avoid due to a recent rash of drowning deaths caused by Gulf of Mexico rip currents.

In fact, law enforcement officials in the area have been quite vocal regarding both their concern and disdain for the situation currently plaguing the Gulf Coast waters — dangers which they believe may have been avoidable. 

"I’m beyond frustrated at the situation that we have with tragic and unnecessary deaths in the Gulf," Bay County Sheriff Tommy Ford wrote on Facebook on Sunday, two days before Mallett's passing. "I have watched while deputies, firefighters and lifeguards have risked their lives to save strangers. I have seen strangers die trying to save their children and loved ones, including two fathers on (Father’s Day).”

The Gulf Coast has seen 11 drowning deaths in the last two weeks alone, making it the deadliest beach in the U.S. Rip current deaths have recently risen nationwide, with a high of 113 in 2021.

Wrote Ford on Sunday: "We have used the tools provided by the county commission to fine violators $500 for entering the water on double red flags. We don’t have the resources or time to cite every single person that enters the water ...''

Ford also issued a beach-related warning on Tuesday, the day of Mallett's accident, writing, "Use caution every time you go into the Gulf. Today is a bit rough, so be especially careful. We'll be out on the sand, doing our best to keep you safe, visitors and residents alike.''

Meanwhile, the tragedy of losing a young, well-loved man entering the prime of his life becomes no less tragic. 

A college football standout at Arkansas, Mallett was drafted by the New England Patriots in the third round (No. 74 overall) of the 2011 NFL Draft. He played with New England from 2011 through 2013, serving as the backup to starter Tom Brady. Following his trade to the Houston Texans in 2014, Mallett signed with Baltimore during the 2015 season; thus making the Ravens the final NFL team for which he played. 

During his seven-year career, Mallett appeared in 21 games and made eight starts, including two with the Ravens. He had a 3-5 record as a starter and finished his career with 1,835 passing yards and nine touchdowns.

Having spent nearly two seasons with the Ravens, the organization reflected on Mallett’s time with them, while offering their condolences to the Mallett family.

Ravens coach John Harbaugh also expressed his sympathy, referring to his fallen former pupil as “a part of us.” 

Perhaps Mallett’s most recognizable moment as a Baltimore Raven came in 2015, leading the team to a 20-17 upset win over the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 16. Coincidentally, it was his first in-game appearance in a Ravens uniform. Mallett completed 28 of 41 for 274 passing yards, and a touchdown strike to receiver Chris Matthews.

After his playing career, Mallett served as the head football coach at White Hall High School in White Hall, Arkansas.

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