Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie joined the hundreds around the NFL paying their respects to Steve Sabol upon the news of his death.
“Steve Sabol was one of the most influential and innovative people in the NFL community,” said Lurie in a statement. “Football benefitted so much from his unique vision and incredible ability to bring fans closer to the action. He was also a joy to be around, an endless source of energy and ideas. All of us at the Eagles will miss him, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.”
The Moorestown, New Jersey native is known as the creative force behind NFL Films, which changed the way football was viewed and was a major factor in its sharp rise in popularity. He died Tuesday at the age of 69 after a fight with brain cancer.
Many from the NFL community took to Twitter to praise one of the game’s true pioneers.
RIP SteveSabol. One of the True Legends of the Game!!
— Brian Dawkins (@BrianDawkins) September 18, 2012
The NFL lost one of its most influential figures and the world lost a great man. RIP, Steve Sabol.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 18, 2012
Steve Sabol always refused to name his favorite player of all time: “It’s like asking me to name my favorite noodle in a spaghetti dinner.”
— Peter King (@SI_PeterKing) September 18, 2012
I am greatly saddened to learn of the passing of Steve Sabol. I would like to send my most heartfelt condolences to the Sabol family.
— Barry Sanders (@BarrySanders) September 18, 2012
Sad to hear about the passing of Steve Sabol, the president and co-founder of @nflfilms. Sending condolences to his family and friends
— Pete Carroll (@PeteCarroll) September 18, 2012
He did not play or coach or own a team but few have impacted the NFL like Steve Sabol.So sad to lose this legend.
— MikeTirico (@miketirico) September 18, 2012
RIP Steve Sabol. I was fortunate 2 work w/Steve during my tenure w/the SF 49ers. Thanks 4 the memories then & now & those 2 come…#NFLfilms
— Terrell Owens (@terrellowens) September 18, 2012
Steve Sabol = game-changer
— Andrew Brandt (@adbrandt) September 18, 2012
Sad to hear the loss of Steve Sabol. He did so much for our sport and for countless individuals. I pray for peace for his family. #NFLFILMS
— David Akers (@DavidAkers2) September 18, 2012
