Christian Adolph Jurgensen

Christian Adolph "Sonny" Jurgensen III, the legendary Hall of Fame quarterback renowned for his golden arm and charismatic presence, passed away on February 6, 2026, at the age of 91. Jurgensen, a beloved figure in professional football, left an indelible mark during his 18-season career with the Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Redskins, earning a place among the sport's all-time greats. His passing is mourned by fans and colleagues across the NFL, particularly in Washington, where he became a cherished icon.

Born on August 23, 1934, in Wilmington, North Carolina, Jurgensen excelled in multiple sports during his youth before attending Duke University. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the fourth round of the 1957 NFL Draft. After serving as a backup, he took over as the starting quarterback in 1961, leading the NFL in passing yards and touchdowns in his first full season and contributing to the Eagles' 1960 NFL Championship.

In 1964, Jurgensen was famously traded to the Washington Redskins, where he truly cemented his legacy. Known for his fearless play and exceptional passing accuracy, he led the NFL in passing yards five times and was a five-time Pro Bowl selection. His ability to deliver the ball under pressure and dissect defenses made him a fan favorite and one of the most exciting players of his era.

Jurgensen retired from playing in 1974, having amassed 32,224 passing yards and 255 touchdowns. His remarkable career was recognized with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1983. Following his playing days, he transitioned seamlessly into a successful career as a longtime color commentator for Washington's radio broadcast crew, further endearing himself to generations of fans with his keen insights and affable personality.

Sonny Jurgensen's impact extended beyond his statistics; he was a symbol of resilience and passion for the game. His No. 9 jersey was retired by the Washington Commanders, and he was named to the NFL 1960s All-Decade Team, solidifying his place as one of the most influential quarterbacks in NFL history. He will be remembered not only for his athletic prowess but also for the joy and excitement he brought to football.