The Hasselbeck family mourns the loss of their patriarch, a former NFL tight end who played for multiple teams during his nine-year career in the league.

According to Breitbart News, Don Hasselbeck, who achieved Super Bowl glory with the Raiders and was father to NFL quarterbacks Matt and Tim Hasselbeck, passed away on Monday after suffering cardiac arrest at the age of 70.

The news was shared by his son Matt Hasselbeck, a former NFL quarterback himself, who posted a heartfelt tribute on X describing his father's impact on their family and his dedication to faith. The announcement highlighted Don's role not just as a professional athlete but as a devoted family man who maintained detailed prayer journals for his loved ones.

Legacy of football excellence spans generations

Don Hasselbeck's journey in professional football began when the New England Patriots selected him in the second round of the 1977 NFL Draft. His collegiate career at Colorado, where he earned All-American honors, set the foundation for his professional success. The tight end spent seven seasons with the Patriots before being traded to the Raiders.

His most memorable moment came during Super Bowl XVIII, where his crucial blocked extra point contributed to the Raiders' victory over the Washington Redskins. The play became a defining moment in Super Bowl history and cemented his place in Raiders lore. Following his time with the Raiders, Hasselbeck also played for the Giants and Vikings before concluding his NFL career.

The football legacy continued through his sons, with Matt Hasselbeck becoming a three-time Pro Bowler during his tenure with the Seattle Seahawks. Tim Hasselbeck also carved out a successful NFL career, playing for various teams over nearly a decade.

A father's lasting impact beyond the field

Matt Hasselbeck shared these touching words about his father:

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. He helped set our feet on solid ground. Married to and in love with our mom, Betsy, for 50 years, they built their house on the rock of Jesus Christ.

Don's impact extended beyond his athletic achievements, as he maintained meticulous prayer journals that included the names and needs of family members and acquaintances.

His commitment to faith and family became the cornerstone of his post-football life, inspiring those around him through his dedication and leadership.

The loss has created what Matt described as a "6'7" hole in our hearts," referencing his father's imposing physical stature that matched his larger-than-life presence in their lives.

Final farewell to a football great

Don Hasselbeck's passing marks the end of an era that bridged multiple generations of NFL excellence. His death on Monday came despite the efforts of neighbors and medical professionals who attempted to save his life after he suffered cardiac arrest.

The Super Bowl champion and former Raiders tight end left behind a legacy that transcends his achievements on the field, remembered not just for his athletic prowess but for his role as a devoted husband of 50 years to his wife Betsy and as a father who shaped the careers and characters of two NFL quarterbacks.

The family looks forward to reuniting with him in heaven, finding solace in their faith and the countless lives he touched through both his athletic career and his personal ministry of prayer and mentorship.