### Don Hasselbeck: A Legacy in the NFL and Family Don Hasselbeck, a former NFL tight end and father to two notable quarterbacks, passed away at the age of 70 due to cardiac arrest. His death marks the end of a significant chapter in a family deeply rooted in football, with both of his sons, Matt and Tim Hasselbeck, having successful careers as NFL quarterbacks. Don's own career spanned nine seasons, during which he played for teams including the New England Patriots and the Los Angeles Raiders, where he won a Super Bowl in 1984. His contributions to the sport and his family legacy are remembered fondly by fans and loved ones alike [https://www.reuters.com/sports/don-hasselbeck-patriarch-noted-nfl-family-dies-70-2025-04-15]. ### Overview of Don Hasselbeck's Life and Career 1. **Early Life and NFL Career** - Drafted by the New England Patriots in 1977, Don played tight end for six seasons, accumulating 99 catches for 1,444 yards and 15 touchdowns [https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/04/14/sports/don-hasselbeck-patriots]. - He later played for the Los Angeles Raiders, where he won a Super Bowl in 1984, and also had stints with the New York Giants and Minnesota Vikings [https://www.cleveland.com/news/2025/04/raiders-super-bowl-champ-father-of-nfl-qbs-dies-at-70.html]. 2. **Family Legacy** - Don was the father of Matt and Tim Hasselbeck, both of whom became NFL quarterbacks, furthering the family's football legacy [https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/don-hasselbeck-dies-at-age-70-former-nfl-tight-end-won-super-bowl-with-raiders]. - His son Matt announced his father's passing on social media, highlighting Don's roles as a father, husband, and mentor [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/ex-nfl-te-don-hasselbeck-father-of-former-qbs-matt-and-tim-dies-at-70-123849822.html]. 3. **Impact and Recognition** - Don was recognized for his contributions to the sport, being named to the All-Rookie Team and leading the Patriots in receptions in 1981 [https://www.boston.com/sports/new-england-patriots/2025/04/14/former-patriots-tight-end-don-hasselbeck-dies-of-heart-attack-at-age-70]. - His legacy extends beyond statistics, as he was remembered as a great storyteller and mentor to many [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/former-super-bowl-winning-tight-120353421.html]. ### Key Statistics and Achievements - **NFL Career**: - Teams: New England Patriots, Los Angeles Raiders, New York Giants, Minnesota Vikings - Super Bowl Champion: 1984 with the Raiders - Career Stats: 99 receptions, 1,444 yards, 15 touchdowns [https://www.upi.com/Sports_News/NFL/2025/04/15/Super-Bowl-winning-TE-Don-Hasselbeck-dies/7191744715024]. - **Family**: - Sons: Matt Hasselbeck (former QB for the Seattle Seahawks, among others) and Tim Hasselbeck (former QB for the New York Giants) [https://www.nypost.com/2025/04/15/sports/don-hasselbeck-former-super-bowl-champion-and-ex-giant-dead-at-70]. ### Conclusion: A Life Remembered **Don Hasselbeck's passing at 70 is a profound loss for both his family and the NFL community.** His legacy as a player and father will continue to resonate, particularly through the careers of his sons. The impact he made on the field and in the lives of those around him is a testament to his character and dedication to the sport. 1. **Career Overview**: Don's nine-year NFL career included significant achievements and contributions to multiple teams. 2. **Family Legacy**: His sons have carried on his legacy in the NFL, showcasing the family's deep connection to the sport. 3. **Community Impact**: Remembered not just for his athletic prowess, but also for his role as a mentor and storyteller, Don's influence extends beyond football [https://www.denver7.com/sports/college-sports/former-buff-nfl-tight-end-don-hasselbeck-dies-of-heart-attack-at-age-70].