Former Denver Broncos Quarterback Has Passed Away

Jack Crabtree, the standout quarterback who turned three standout seasons with the University of Oregon into a memorable Rose Bowl appearance and a short professional football journey, has died at the age of 90.

The University of Oregon made the announcement on April 7, paying tribute to one of the program’s most respected alumni.

“Oregon football mourns the loss of former Duck quarterback Jack Crabtree, MVP of the 1958 Rose Bowl and a 2002 Oregon Hall of Fame inductee,” the program wrote.

Born and raised in Lakewood, California, Crabtree first honed his skills at Excelsior High School. He began his collegiate path at San Bernardino Junior College before transferring to the University of Oregon, where he eventually earned the starting quarterback position during his senior year in 1957.

That 1957 campaign proved historic for the Ducks. Although Oregon shared the Pacific Coast Conference championship with rival Oregon State, the team received the Rose Bowl invitation because the Beavers had participated in the game the previous season.

Crabtree stepped into the spotlight on college football’s biggest stage, starting under center for Oregon against a powerful Ohio State squad in the 1958 Rose Bowl. He delivered a strong performance, connecting on 10 of 17 passes for 135 yards, which earned him the game’s Most Valuable Player award even though the Ducks fell short in a narrow 10–7 defeat.

Following his impressive college career, Crabtree heard his name called in the NFL Draft. Selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the 12th round as the 136th overall pick in 1958, his path to professional football took an unexpected detour due to military obligations.

He spent two years serving in the United States Army before attempting to resume his playing career. Upon completing his service, Crabtree joined the American Football League, spending time with both the Denver Broncos and the Los Angeles Chargers.

Despite his efforts at the professional level, Crabtree never saw action in a regular-season contest. His contributions, however, remained firmly rooted in his outstanding achievements during his time in Eugene.

Crabtree’s excellence has been recognized through multiple hall of fame honors. He was inducted into the University of Oregon Athletic Hall of Fame in 2002, the Rose Bowl Hall of Fame in 1998, and the Oregon Sports Hall of Fame in 1981.

His legacy continues to inspire generations of Duck athletes and fans who remember the poise and leadership he displayed on the field during one of the program’s most celebrated postseason moments.

Crabtree’s story stands as a testament to dedication, resilience, and the lasting impact one player can have on a university’s football tradition.