New information about the circumstances surrounding former quarterback Ryan Mallett’s tragic death on Tuesday at the age of 35 is starting to surface, as the Baltimore Ravens join the rest of the NFL community in mourning his loss.

Mallett, who played with the Ravens from 2015-2017, drowned in the ocean near Destin, Florida – an area where beachgoers have been warned to avoid due to a recent rash of drowning deaths caused by Gulf of Mexico rip currents.

In fact, law enforcement officials in the area have been quite vocal regarding both their concern and disdain for the situation currently plaguing the Gulf Coast waters — dangers which they believe may have been avoidable.

Two days prior to Mallett’s death, on Sunday, Bay County Sheriff Tommy Ford posted on Facebook, saying, “I’m beyond frustrated at the situation that we have with tragic and unnecessary deaths in the Gulf.” “I have witnessed as lifeguards, firefighters, and deputies have put themselves in danger to save strangers. I have witnessed strangers—including two fathers on Father’s Day—die while attempting to save their offspring and loved ones.

The Gulf Coast has seen 11 drowning deaths in the last two weeks alone, making it the deadliest beach in the U.S. Rip current deaths have recently risen nationwide, with a high of 113 in 2021.

Wrote Ford on Sunday: “We have used the tools provided by the county commission to fine violators $500 for entering the water on double red flags. We don’t have the resources or time to cite every single person that enters the water …”

On Tuesday, the day of Mallett’s accident, Ford also released a warning about beaches, saying, “Always exercise caution when entering the Gulf. It’s going to be rough today, so take extra care. We will endeavor to ensure the safety of both residents and visitors while we are out on the sand.

Meanwhile, the tragedy of losing a young, well-loved man entering the prime of his life becomes no less tragic.

Mallett was selected by the New England Patriots in the third round of the 2011 NFL Draft (at pick No. 74 overall), after excelling in college football at Arkansas. From 2011 to 2013, he was a member of the New England Patriots, backing up starting quarterback Tom Brady. Mallett signed with Baltimore during the 2015 season after being traded to the Houston Texans in 2014; the Ravens were his last NFL team he played for.

During his seven-year career, Mallett appeared in 21 games and made eight starts, including two with the Ravens. He had a 3-5 record as a starter and finished his career with 1,835 passing yards and nine touchdowns.

Having spent nearly two seasons with the Ravens, the organization reflected on Mallett’s time with them, while offering their condolences to the Mallett family.

Ravens coach John Harbaugh also expressed his sympathy, referring to his fallen former pupil as “a part of us.”

Mallett’s most well-known performance as a Baltimore Raven may have occurred in 2015 when he helped the team defeat the Pittsburgh Steelers 20-17 in an unexpected Week 16 victory. It so happened to be his first appearance in a Ravens uniform during a game. With 274 passing yards and a touchdown pass to receiver Chris Matthews, Mallett finished 28 of 41.

Mallett was the head football coach at White Hall High School in White Hall, Arkansas, following his playing career.