RIP Neiron Ball — Former Oakland Raider Player Dead At 27
Family, friends, fans and teammates are mourning the loss of the talented former linebacker.
Getty How did Neiron Ball die? The 27-year-old NFL star, Neiron Ball who was in a medically induced coma, died on early Tuesday nearly a year after being hospitalized with a ruptured blood vessel in his brain. His sister, Natalie Ball Myricks, made the announcement on her personal Facebook page that states: "The Ball family is forever grateful for the prayers, donations, and immense support of Neiron and his recovery. Neiron was a very special and loving father, brother, and teammate. Neiron has transitioned to a place of peace."
If you're wondering, "who is Neiron Ball," don't worry: we have you covered. Here's everything you need to know about the former linebacker: his athletic career, hardships, and profound legacy.
1. Ball’s death came nearly a year after he suffered a brain aneurysm
Since September 2018, the former Oakland Raiders linebacker was in a medically induced coma at Emory University Hospital.
2. Ball sat out his sophomore season at Florida in 2011 because of a congenital condition known as arteriovenous malformation.
Sources say he suffered from arteriovenous malformation, a rare blood vessel disorder in which an abnormality exists in the connection between arteries and veins in the brain or spine. In layman's terms, arteriovenous malformation causes the brain’s blood vessels to get tangled and rupture. The diagnosis was made after he experienced a series of headaches during his time playing for the Florida Gators. He returned the following year, playing in 33 games and starting in 16 during his final three seasons.
3. A GoFundMe effort raised nearly $137,000 to help cover his medical expenses.
Created by his sister and great-aunt, the GoFundMe fundraiser has exceeded the monetary goal initially set. The page was made in response to Neiron’s health insurance, which “does not cover the appropriate care necessary to give him the best chance of recovery.”
4. The Oakland Raiders selected Ball in the fifth round of the 2015 NFL draft.
He played six games as a rookie, later landing the bench due to a knee injury. He was then released by the Raiders just before each of the next two seasons.
5. Ball’s agency, Sports & Entertainment Group, issued a statement.
According to USA Today, Sports & Entertainment Group stated the following in response to Ball’s sudden death:
“Neiron was a rare and special spirit with the ability to touch anyone he met. His talent was met with relentless drive, no matter the obstacle...Neiron was a loving and cherished father, brother and teammate. He will be missed dearly.”
6. The Florida Gators also posted a tribute.
Ball’s alma mater team, The Florida Gators, posted in honor and commiseration of his legacy on Twitter:
"Rest in Peace, Neiron. You'll be forever remembered and always missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time. #GatorsAlways"
Dominique is an unapologetic Scorpio (BIG co-star girl), reality TV loving heathen, and twentysomething, NYC-based writer with a moderately interesting life, knack for editing, and passion for content creation. Though no one asked, all opinions and words are her own and authentic— topics ranging from fashion and food, to beauty, lifestyle, music and everything in between.