World loses a wonderful human being with the passing of Raiders, Gators LB Neiron Ball

Tuesday the world got some terrible news. Neiron Ball has passed away. The former Florida Gators and Oakland Raiders linebacker lost the battle with a rare congenital brain condition that caused him to have an aneurism last December that placed him in a coma.

His sister Natalie Myricks announced Neiron’s passing on facebook.

“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.”

Ball was a 2015 fifth round pick by the Raiders, who unfortunately saw his career cut short by injury. He was an inspiring individual who lost both his parents at a young age.

He touched a great many people’s lives — including my own — and enriched those lives with his selfless and tremendous character and heart.

One of his best friends is current Raiders tackle Trent Brown who upon signing a record deal with the Raiders, dedicated it to his dear friend. The two were drafted together out of Florida — Ball to the Raiders and Brown across to Bay to the 49ers, allowing them to stay close early in their NFL careers.

The Raiders season opener was last night in Oakland. Brown had just been celebrating a dominating performance in the late Monday night game against the Broncos in his first game with the Raiders when hours later he was awoken early by the tragic news.

We mourn with him. Neiron Ball was just 27 years old. Gone too soon.

It was a blessing to have met you, Neiron. If only for a brief time. Rest in peace, young man.