NFL Legend John Madden, Once Drafted By The Eagles, Dies

Philadelphia PA

28 December, 2021

7:25 PM

Description

PHILADELPHIA, PA — John Madden, the legendary NFL coach and broadcaster whose iconic voice and trademark analysis captured the spirit of the game for a generation, has died. He was 85. Though Madden never played professionally, he first broke into the league when he was drafted in the 21st round, 244th overall, by the Eagles in the 1958 NFL Draft. Unfortunately, Madden suffered an injury in training camp and was never able to play a game for the Birds. Instead, he found just about every other way possible to leave an impact on the sport. The NFL announced Madden's passing Tuesday evening. "On behalf of the entire NFL family, we extend our condolences to Virginia, Mike, Joe and their families," NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. "We all know him as the Hall of Fame coach of the Oakland Raiders and broadcaster who worked for every major network, but more than anything, he was a devoted husband, father and grandfather." Madden reportedly described his brief time in Philadelphia as formative for his long career as a coach and analyst. As noted by "Inside the Iggles," Peter Richmond's biography of Madden describes how his process inspired by then-Eagles quarterback Norm Van Brocklin: "And I'm watching and seeing how he's thinking and you get ready to attack the defense," Madden reportedly said. "That's where I learned pro football. Seeing from Norm Van Brocklin what it takes to prepare for a game." Madden ultimately coached the Raiders to the 1969 Super Bowl championship, and finished his coaching career with a superb 112–39–7 record, though unfortunately for the Eagles, he never coached in Philadelphia. Madden's death comes just days after Fox Sports aired a special on Madden's life and career, "All Madden."