Chargers defensive tackle Brandon Mebane revealed this week his seven-week-old daughter passed away prior to the team's Wild Card matchup against the Ravens.
Mebane, one of the Chargers' captains, missed five games this season, including last Sunday's win against Baltimore, to care for Makenna, who was born with an extra chromosome 13. He told reporters he plans to play against the Patriots in the Divisional Round Sunday.
"No matter where I am, I still think about her," Mebane said, per Boston.com. "I'm just happy I'm still able to play this game."
Words are hard to come by with the passing of Brandon Mebane's infant daughter, Makenna.We are heartbroken.Please join us in keeping Brandon, and his family, in your thoughts and prayers.
— Los Angeles Chargers (@Chargers) January 9, 2019Earlier this week, Tom Brady praised Mebane's ability as a run defender in his weekly interview with "Mut & Callahan." Mebane could factor heavily into the game, especially if the Patriots decided to emphasize Sony Michel early on.
"(Brandon) Mebane, (is) one of the best run defenders we've ever played against," Brady said.
