The Situation Involving Ryan Mallett's Drowning Death is Even More Tragic and Horrible Than First Reported

Jerry Thornton6/28/2023 4:00 PM

When the news first broke about the shocking, untimely passing of former Patriots, Texans and Ravens backup quarterback Ryan Mallett, there really didn't seem to be a reason to post about it here. We're not a news site. We're here primarily for the entertainment, with some exceptions. There frankly seemed to be no way to add anything compelling to a sad story about a former NFL player with eight career starts dying way too young at age 35. Other than maybe posting videos of Matlett:

Or the many tributes from his friends and teammates:

But now that we're learning more about the circumstances of Mallett's death, posting about it seems more like an obligation. A warning. Consider it a Public Service Announcement. Because the whole tragedy could have been easily avoided. Should have, in fact:

Fox - A Florida sheriff expressed his frustrations with beachgoers ignoring warning signs about dangerous waters days before former NFL quarterback Ryan Mallett died in an apparent drowning.
Mallett drowned in the waters near Destin, Deltaplex News in Arkansas first reported Tuesday. Bay County Sheriff Tommy Ford warned those going to the beach to be careful after the recent spate of drowning deaths, which he said put first responders at risk. …
"I’m beyond frustrated at the situation that we have with tragic and unnecessary deaths in the Gulf," Ford wrote on Facebook on Sunday. "I have watched while deputies, firefighters and lifeguards have risked their lives to save strangers. I have seen strangers die trying to save their children and loved ones, including two fathers on (Father’s Day).
"These same heroes, who have risked it all to save others, have been cursed and given the finger, while trying to warn visitors of the life-threatening dangers. 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 but we do our absolute best to use it as a deterrent to entering the water. An arrest is only authorized upon a second offense unless the individual resists law enforcement."
Ford also warned those traveling to the beach Tuesday.
"Use caution every time you go into the Gulf. Today is a bit rough, so be especially careful. We'll be out on the sand, doing our best to keep you safe, visitors and residents alike," he wrote.
According to the New York Post, Panama City Beach has seen seven drowning deaths in June alone, which made it the deadliest beach this year. According to USA Today, about 60 people have died from drowning in the U.S. this year.

Absolutely horrifying. And by no means am I blaming Mallett or any of the other 59 drowning victims. This is just a reminder. The beach can seem like the most placid environment in the world and a safe haven. But that look is deceiving. This is what you don't see from the comfort of your chair:

Even under the best, calmest of conditions, when you wade into the ocean, you're going up against 75% of the surface of the Earth. And when the conditions are such that you're facing double red flag signals, fines, and repeated warnings from the first responders who are only trying to keep you alive, that's not a fight you're going to win.

As they say, time and tide waiteth for no man.

So take this in the spirit in which it's intended. If a 6-foot-6, 250 pound highly conditioned athlete can die needlessly just trying to have a good time on a beach day, no one is totally safe. Consider yourself warned. And hopefully educated. Then maybe Ryan Mallett's death would totally be in vain.

Rest in peace.