John Madden, one of the NFL’s most iconic figures, tragically passed away on Tuesday at age 85.
“On behalf of the entire NFL family, we extend our condolences to Virginia, Mike, Joe and their families,” NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement. “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.
“Nobody loved football more than Coach. He was football. He was an incredible sound board to me and so many others. There will never be another John Madden, and we will forever be indebted to him for all he did to make football and the NFL what it is today.”
Since the announcement of his death, fans have been taking to social media and praising Madden for his outstanding life and career.
One of the most viral memories is of him casually roasting Troy Aikman’s inability to grow facial hair.
“Troy Aikman is trying to grow a beard, and he just can’t do it,” Madden said on the call. “… I’m looking as close as I can and I can’t see any beard. That’s a four-day beard!”
“It’s a passive attempt,” his longtime booth partner Pat Summerall said.
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“It’s very, very passive!” Madden replied.
After the news of Madden’s passing broke yesterday, the former Dallas QB took to Twitter with a message.
“John Madden was a treasure. He was a gift. And he was an incredible friend. RIP John,” Aikman wrote.
