The football world broke into pieces once again! Just a couple of days ago, we saw the demise of young 24-year-old Kyren Lacy, who was about to kick-start his NFL career. Everyone was reeling under the loss, trying to overcome it. But once again, the mournful phase sparked for all, as now this time, Pat McAfee’s former teammate and the ex-QB of the Seattle Seahawks, Matt Hasselbeck, lost his father.
Announcing the news on his official Instagram account, Hasselbeck shared a photo of his father, Don Hasselbeck. In the featured photo, the former NFL tight end was seen showing off his painting talent. Along with this, McAfee’s ex-teammate from their Colts time wrote: “It is with deep sorrow that we share the passing of our father, Don Hasselbeck, who suffered cardiac arrest and passed away today. We want to thank our parents’ neighbors and all the medical professionals who came to his aid.”
In addition, Hasselbeck made sure to praise his father, revealing his overall personality in the caption. He stated, “He was a great husband, father, grandfather, friend, coach, player, coworker, artist, mentor, and storyteller. Despite being an All-American at Colorado and a Super Bowl Champion with the Raiders, what we are most proud of is the leader he was for our family.”
Don Hasselbeck wasn’t just another tight end. The man made his mark early in the league. New England took him in the second round back in ’77. Fresh off a killer run at Colorado, he showed up ready to play. By ’81, he was the player leading the team in catches, racking up over 800 yards, and finding the end zone six times. Then came the trade to the Raiders in ’83. And boom – he helped the team to clinch their third and last Super Bowl.
Don did more than show up. He recorded two touchdowns that season, plus he blocked an extra point in the title game. He continued to make big plays on the biggest stage and kept pushing. Matt Hasselbeck’s dad’s next stop was the Giants. There he scored in a playoff win over the Niners, and later wrapped his career in ’85 with the Vikings.
Now his fans and NFL players are remembering him. For instance, a Seahawks fan page wrote: “My condolences.” In addition, college football player Ethan Utley said, “Prayers up coach, heaven gained a great one.” And TV personality Darius Butler didn’t hold his emotions too, as he mourned: “You and your family are in my prayers Matt.”
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