Former Patriots and Boston College defensive tackle Ron Brace has died at the age of 29.
Brace grew up in Springfield and attended Burncoat High School in Worcester. He played football for Boston College and was drafted in the second round by the Patriots in 2009. He played 39 games for the Patriots before he was released in 2012.
The cause of death is unknown.
Statement from New England Patriots:
"During his Patriots career, the Springfield native was always eager to volunteer and give back in our communities, especially when those community initiatives were held in Western Mass. It is difficult to believe that someone so young and in the prime of his life is no longer with us. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Ron’s family, friends and the many former teammates who will mourn Ron’s passing."
Rest in Peace bro…I’ll always remember you smiling and telling jokes…gone way too soon ???????? (D-Mac) pic.twitter.com/jLTFtNkpWA
— Devin&Jason McCourty (@McCourtyTwins) April 24, 2016
We’re shocked & saddened at the loss of our great #ronbrace #BCEagles hearts are heavy. Thoughts & prayers for his family & friends.
— BCFootballNews (@BCFootballNews) April 24, 2016
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