NFL HOF, Eagles Legend Chuck Bednarik Passes Away
Chuck Bednarik, the last 60 Minute-Man in NFL history, passed away Saturday morning. He was 89 years old.
Eagles are saddened to learn of the passing of one of our all-time greats, @ProFootballHOF LB/C Chuck Bednarik. pic.twitter.com/jR3S9LM9n7
— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) March 21, 2015
“I have had the opportunity to spend time with Chuck Bednarik, who is truly one of the most unique players that this game has ever seen,” Eagles coach Chip Kelly said in a statement released by the team. “The foundation of this organization and this league is built on the backs of past greats, with Chuck at the forefront. The way he played the game with an endless passion and tenacity helped establish the standard of excellence that this organization stands for; one that we strive to achieve each and every day.”
“Philadelphia fans grow up expecting toughness, all-out effort and a workmanlike attitude from this team and so much of that image has its roots in the way Chuck played the game,” Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie said in a statement released by the team.
Bednarik, who earned the nickname “Concrete Charlie” played all 14 of his NFL seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles. Drafted number one overall in 1949, Chuck played both as the teams starting center and linebacker during the 1949 and 1960 Championship seasons.
He was a five-time All-Pro and holds the Eagles record for eight Pro Bowl selections. He finished his career with 20 interceptions and 21 fumble recoveries. He was an inaugural member of the team’s Hall of Fame, and his number 60 was retired by the team. He is credited with a game saving, red zone tackle during the 1960 NFL Championship game against Vince Lombardi’s Green Bay Packers. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1967.
After every college football season, the Maxwell Football Club presents the Chuck Bednarik award to the best defensive player of the year.
Bednarik is most recognized by NFL fans for “the hit” on the Giant’s Frank Gifford in 1960,at Yankees Stadium.
Born on May 1st, 1925, Bednarik was a First Lieutenant in the Air Force during World War II. He flew 30 missions and earned the Air Honor award. He is survived by his wife, five children, ten grandchildren and one great-grandchild.