Ryan Mallett, a former Arkansas Razorback player and head coach for the White Hall Bulldogs, passed away while on vacation in Okaloosa County on Tuesday.
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office reported that first responders were called to the beach behind 775 Gulf Shore Drive in Destin, where a group of people in the water near the second sandbar were struggling to make their way back to shore.
Unfortunately, Mallett went under and was not breathing when he was pulled out. Despite immediate lifesaving measures, he was pronounced dead at the Destin Emergency Room.
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the identity of the deceased man as Ryan Mallett, 35, from Arkansas.
The White Hall School District also confirmed the drowning incident, as Mallett was entering his second season as the head coach of the White Hall Bulldogs.
Prior to his coaching role at White Hall, he served as the offensive coordinator for Mountain Home in 2020 and 2021.
Ryan Mallett left a significant impact on Razorback history, ranking in the top five with 491 career completions (4th), 7,493 passing yards (2nd), and 62 passing touchdowns (2nd).
He was selected by the New England Patriots in the third round of the 2011 NFL Draft and played for the Patriots, Houston Texans, and Baltimore Ravens during his professional football career.
It is truly unfortunate to lose someone with such a notable athletic career and a promising coaching future.
Our thoughts go out to Ryan Mallett’s family, friends, and the entire White Hall community during this difficult time.
How Did Ryan Mallett Drown?- Cause Of Death & Obituary
The former Razorback player was vacationing with his girlfriend, Madison Carter, in Florida when the incident happened.
After the incident, Mallett was immediately rushed to a local hospital, but unfortunately, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
The news was confirmed by White Hall Superintendent Gary Williams, who expressed his deep sadness over the loss.
We are shocked and saddened by the passing of Ryan Mallett. He was a Razorback legend with larger-than-life talent and a personality to match. He led our program to some of our best moments in recent memory. He will be missed by everyone who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are… pic.twitter.com/aYlMOBkHAV
— Arkansas Razorback Football (@RazorbackFB) June 27, 2023
Subsequently, the school district issued a statement conveying their condolences and requesting support for Coach Mallett’s family, his team, students, fellow coaches, and the staff of the White Hall School District.
“It is with great sadness that we share the loss of Coach Ryan Mallett. Coach Mallett was a beloved coach and educator. We ask that you remember his family, team, students, fellow coaches, and the White Hall School District staff in your prayers.”
Rest In Peace, Beautiful Soul
