Former Raiders linebacker Neiron Ball died Tuesday morning at 27 years old, his family announced. Ball had been in a coma since December 2018 with a rare congenital brain condition.
"We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Neiron Ball on September 10, 2019 at 4:15 am. The Ball family is forever grateful for the prayers, donations, and immense support of Neiron and his recovery. Neiron was a very special and loving father, brother, and teammate. Neiron has transitioned to a place of peace," wrote Ball's sister Natalie Myricks in a Facebook post.
Several former teammates showed their sadness on social media at the news of Ball's passing, including Raiders quarterback Derek Carr.
RIP Neiron! One of the nicest people I have ever met. Always had a smile on his face!— Derek Carr (@derekcarrqb) September 10, 2019
Raiders offensive tackle Trent Brown played collegiately with Ball the University of Florida, and couldn't help but shed tears.
Some tears you just don't be prepared for... 🕊️— Trent Brown (@Trent) September 10, 2019
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Weezy foreva— Trent Brown (@Trent) September 10, 2019
Suffer no more 🕊️— Trent Brown (@Trent) September 10, 2019
Ain't a doubt in my mind of where you're at Weezy, got the best seat in the house with both of your parents and grandma...rest peacefully eternally and I know you watching over us covering us❗️❗️ I love you bra #Weezy4Eva— Trent Brown (@Trent) September 10, 2019
The Raiders selected Ball in the fifth round of the 2015 NFL Draft. He suited up in six games with the Silver and Black as a rookie, collecting five tackles and one sack.
Ball was diagnosed with an arteriovenous malformation -- a condition which causes blood vessels in the brain to tangle and rupture -- while playing at Florida in 2011. He recovered to play and recorded 94 tackles in four years with the Gators.
He forever will be missed by the entire Raider Nation.
