Former NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue Dead At 84

NFL issues statement, cause of death revealed

According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, Tagliabue's apparent cause of death was heart failure due to complications from Parkinson’s disease. Shortly after the news dropped, Roger Goodell issued a statement on the passing of his old friend and mentor.

"Paul was the ultimate steward of the game — tall in stature, humble in presence and decisive in his loyalty to the NFL. He viewed every challenge and opportunity through the lens of what was best for the greater good, a principle he inherited from Pete Rozelle and passed on to me," Goodell said Sunday.

"I am forever grateful and proud to have Paul as my friend and mentor. I cherished the innumerable hours we spent together where he helped shape me as an executive but also as a man, husband and father."

Tagliabue's legacy as commissioner

During Tagliabue's run as commissioner he oversaw numerous changes that helped shape the league we see today — including: the construction of new stadiums, expanding the NFL from 28 to 32 teams, and massive television contracts that poured billions of dollars into the league's economy.

Tagliabue was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020 as part of its special centennial class and the NFL never saw a work stoppage under his watch. He also was instrumental in implementing the league's strong substance abuse policy as well as the "Rooney Rule."

Tagliabue has previously said that his biggest regret as commissioner was pulling the Rams and Raiders out of Los Angeles. Prior to his esteemed legal career, Tagliabue was a standout college basketball player at Georgetown University before going on to serve as one of the league's lead lawyers.

He is survived by his wife Chandler, son Drew and his daughter Emily. May he rest in peace.