Former NFL player Ryan Mallett’s untimely death by drowning in Destin, Florida, has left the community devastated. The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO) released body cam footage to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
Contrary to initial reports of dangerous riptides and currents, the OCSO stated that there were no indications of such conditions. Yellow beach safety flags were present, signaling safe conditions. Sheriff Eric Aden emphasized that it was a tragic accident, with no evidence of dangerous surf or currents.
Lifeguards found Mallett unresponsive when they pulled him out of the water. Despite efforts to revive him, he was pronounced dead at the Destin Emergency Room.
Mallett had a successful football career, starting in high school and playing for renowned college teams like Michigan and Arkansas. He was drafted by the New England Patriots in 2011 and played for multiple teams before transitioning into coaching.
In 2020, Mallett began his coaching journey at Mountain Home High School. Two years later, he became the head coach of the White Hall High School football team.
The tragic drowning of Ryan Mallett has deeply affected those who knew him. The OCSO continues to investigate the incident, while the community mourns the loss of a talented athlete and dedicated coach.