John Madden dead latest – Oakland Raiders issues statement after NFL legend, 85, dies unexpectedly

THE Las Vegas Raiders released a statement after NFL coach John Madden passed away on Tuesday, December 28 at the age of 85.

“The Raiders Family is deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary John Madden,” the team, now based in Las Vegas after decades in Oakland, said.

“Few individuals meant as much to the growth and popularity of professional football as Coach Madden, whose impact on the game both on and off the field was immeasurable.”

The NFL also released an emotional statement about Madden but did not release a cause of death. His sudden death was described as “unexpected” as tributes rolled in from the likes of Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, a longtime friend of Madden.

Madden became the youngest head coach in pro football when he was hired to coach the Raiders, leading them to victory against the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl XI and finishing his career with a 103-32-7 record.

He has the all-time highest winning percentage among all coaches who won at least 100 games.

He was also the namesake of the famous Madden NFL video game franchise.

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