O. J. Brigance

Brigance was born in Houston and played college football at Rice University, where he was a three-year starter. He graduated from Rice with a degree in managerial studies in 1992. Beginning his pro career as a linebacker in the CFL with the BC Lions in 1991, Brigance played three seasons and 54 games. His best season came in 1993, when he recorded 20 sacks and was a CFL West All-Star. Brigance then played for the Baltimore Stallions for two seasons, becoming a CFL All-Star in 1995, recording seven sacks and helping his team win the Grey Cup. He is currently the director of player development for the Ravens and was a member of the 2013 team that won Super Bowl XLVII. ==Personal life==

In May 2007, Brigance was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's disease), a motor neuron disease that is eventually fatal. He has created a foundation to assist ALS research called the Brigance Brigade Foundation. For his ALS activism, Brigance was one of two recipients of the 2016 NCAA Inspiration Award, sharing honors with late Mount St. Joseph University basketball player and pediatric cancer victim Lauren Hill. Brigance is a Christian. ==References==