Tom Brady pays emotional tribute after death of former teammate Ryan Mallett

Tom Brady has paid an emotional tribute to his former New England Patriots teammate Ryan Mallett, after he tragically he died on Tuesday.

According to The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, Mallett passed away after drowning at a beach in the Gulf of Mexico. The former Patriots star was taken to hospital, but was later pronounced dead.

A statement from the Sheriff's Office read: "The victim is identified as 35-year old Ryan Mallett of Arkansas. We send our heartfelt sympathies to his family, friends, and loved ones in his tragic passing."

Mallett enjoyed a seven-season career in the NFL, playing for the Patriots, the Houston Texans and the Baltimore Ravens between 2011 and 2017.

In memory of their former star the Patriots wrote in a statement: "The New England Patriots are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden and unexpected passing of former quarterback Ryan Mallett. Our thoughts are with the Mallett family, his former teammates and all who are mourning his loss.”

And this has since been followed by Patriots legend, and Mallet's former teammate Brady. The seven-time Super Bowl champion took to social media to pay tribute to his fellow quarterback, whilst sending his prayers to Mallet's family.

Brady wrote on Instagram : "We lost a great man. Thank you for everything Ryan. Praying for the Mallett family and all their loved ones tonight." Along with the heartfelt message, the 45-year-old included a picture of the pair together during their time with the Patriots.

Ryan Mallett Tom Brady played alongside each other in New England (GETTY)

After his playing days ended, Mallett turned his attention to coaching and took on an assistant coach role at Mountain Home High School in Arkansas in 2021. In 2022 the former quarterback then secured his first head coach position, taking charge of White Hall High School.

Following his death White Hall paid tribute to their coach, writing: "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.”