Family friend Bill Jones tells PEOPLE in an exclusive interview that Braman's "pride" kept him from sharing his diagnosis

Braman was 38 years old. His agent, Sean Stellato, confirmed his death, telling CNN, “Bryan Braman was a warrior in every sense – on the field and in life – facing every battle with unshakable grit and heart. His passing leaves a void not just in football, but in the spirit of every underdog who ever dared to fight.”