Former Oklahoma defensive end Rick Bryan dies at age 47 from heart failure

Former Sooner Rick Bryan dead at 47

COWETA, Okla. — Rick Bryan, an All-America defensive end at Oklahoma who played his entire NFL career with the Atlanta Falcons, has died. He was 47.

Bryan died Saturday night at his home in Coweta, the Wright Funeral Home in Coweta said Monday. Former Oklahoma coach Barry Switzer says Bryan suffered congestive heart failure.

Bryan was a three-time All-Big Eight selection and a two-time All-American. He holds the OU record for tackles by a lineman with 365.

Bryan started for Oklahoma from 1981 to 1983 and was drafted ninth overall by the Falcons in 1984. He had 29 sacks over the next 10 seasons with the Falcons. He retired to Coweta to farm.

Bryan is survived by his wife and three children. Two of his brothers, Mitch and Steve, also played for the Sooners.

Funeral services are scheduled for Thursday in Coweta.