(CNN) — Former NFL quarterback Ryan Mallett died Tuesday after apparently drowning on a Florida beach, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release. I was 35 years old.

Lifeguards rushed to a beach in Destin around 2:12 p.m. local time after learning that a group of people in the water were struggling to reach shore, the statement said.

Mallett was underwater and not breathing when emergency personnel pulled him out, according to the sheriff’s office. He died at a local hospital, the statement added.

Mallett was a star with the Arkansas Razorbacks before being drafted in the 2011 third round by the New England Patriots, the NFL said. He spent seven years in the NFL with the Patriots, Houston Texans and Baltimore Ravens.

The NFL said Mallett played in 21 games, started 3-5, and had 1,835 passing yards, nine touchdowns and 10 interceptions. His career ended in 2017.

“The New England Patriots are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden passing of former quarterback Ryan Mallett,” posted the team on Twitter. “Our hearts go out to the Mallett family, his former teammates and everyone who mourns his loss.”

He was the head football coach for the White Hall Bulldogs in White Hall, Arkansas, where he also taught physical education and health, according to the district’s website.

“It is with great sadness that we share the loss of coach Ryan Mallett,” the district reported. “Coach Mallett was a beloved coach and educator. We ask that you keep his family, team, students, fellow coaches and White Hall School District staff in your prayers.”

At least 11 people have died in less than two weeks along the Gulf Coast due to rip currents, CNN reported.