John Madden Hall of Fame Coach, Namesake of NFL Games Dies at 85

A Loss For the Sport both Real and Virtual 

John Madden, the name behind the NFL video games, and a Hall of Fame football coach passed away today at the age of 85. NFL.com reported Madden’s passing earlier this evening. He died unexpectedly and, as of yet, no further cause has been given.

Madden was a legend in the world of football coaching the Oakland Raiders for ten seasons, as well as, bringing them their first championship win. The youngest coach in history to achieve the 100 win mark at 42, Madden also holds the best winning percentage in the NFL. 

The Oakland Raiders released a statement, on their website, saying “Few individuals meant as much to the growth and popularity of professional football as Coach Madden, whose impact on the game both on and off the field was immeasurable.” 

In addition to his legacy on the field, Madden leaves another. A legacy of football video games with his namesake. Beginning in 1988 with Madden Football for the Apple II. As of now, the Madden NFL games have over three decades of history. A history that has brought the thrill of the football stadium to gaming stations everywhere. 

“We all know him as the Hall of Fame coach of the Oakland Raiders… but more than anything, he was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.” Said NFL commissioner Roger Goodell in a Statement.  

The loss of John Madden is a loss for football and its fans. Both on and off the field, as coach and video game icon, fans will be missing Madden. 

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