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Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Sonny Jurgensen has died at the age of 91, his family confirmed in a statement shared by the Washington Commanders on Friday (February 6).
"It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our husband, father, and grandfather, Sonny Jurgensen," the family said. "We are enormously proud of his amazing life and accomplishments on the field, market not only by a golden arm, but also a fearless spirit and intellect that earned him a place among the legends in Canton. But to those of us who knew him beyond the stadium lights, he was the steady, humorous, and deeply loving heart of our family.
"He lived with deep appreciation for the teammates, colleagues, and friends he met along the way. While he has taken his final snap, his legacy will remain an indelible part of the city he loved and the family he built.
"We are comforted by the knowledge that he brought joy to so many. This weekend as we enjoy the game that he loved so much, join us and raise a glass, share a story and a smile, as we celebrate the extraordinary life of a man who was, to us, the greatest of all time."
Jurgensen spent seven seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, which included winning the 1960 NFL championship during the pre-Super Bowl Era, and 11 with the then-Washington Redskins, having been selected as a two-time first-team All-Pro, a two-time second-team All-Pro and a five-time Pro Bowler, leading the NFL in passing yards five times, touchdowns twice, passer rating one and completion percentage once.
"Sonny Jurgensen is, and always will be, one of the defining legends of Washington football," the Commanders said in a statement shared on their official website. "He was a giant of the game, and a beloved part of our team's identity. Our hearts and prayers are with Sonny's family, friends and everyone who loved him."