Christian A. “Sonny” Jurgensen III, the smooth-throwing Hall of Fame quarterback who helped shape modern passing in the NFL, has died at the age of 91. He passed away Friday in Naples, Florida, surrounded by family.
In an emotional statement, his loved ones reflected on the life of the man fans across generations simply called “Sonny.” “It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our husband, father, and grandfather, Sonny Jurgensen,” the family said. “We are enormously proud of his amazing life and accomplishments on the field, marked not only by a golden arm, but also a fearless spirit and intellect.”
Before today’s era of rocket-armed superstars, there was Jurgensen — an 18-season phenomenon whose mastery of the deep ball made him must-see TV. He began his career with the Philadelphia Eagles, playing seven seasons there before becoming a legend in Washington, where he spent 11 standout years. By the time he retired, he had thrown 255 career touchdowns and had led the league in passing scores twice, numbers that helped redefine what a modern offense could look like.
Fans adored him, teammates trusted him, and coaches marveled at him — including the great Vince Lombardi, who famously said Jurgensen was “the best the league has ever seen.” Coming from the man whose name is now etched on the Super Bowl trophy, it was the kind of praise that cemented Jurgensen’s place in football history.
He earned five Pro Bowl selections and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1983, forever sealing his status as one of the game’s most influential passers.
Washington’s franchise, now known as the Commanders, also honored its longtime star. “Sonny Jurgensen is, and always will be, one of the defining legends of Washington Football,” the team said in a statement, calling him a cornerstone of their history.
For generations of fans, Jurgensen wasn’t just a quarterback — he was an era. And as the tributes pour in, one thing is clear: few players ever made throwing a football look so effortless.
My inspiration and hero. Rest in peace, Old #9. We will not see the likes of you again.