Don Hasselbeck Death: Former New York Giants TE Don Hasselbeck died at age 70
Don Hasselbeck Death: Don Hasselbeck, a former NFL tight end and father of quarterbacks Matt and Tim Hasselbeck, has died at the age of 70. According to reports, he passed away on Monday due to cardiac arrest.
Hasselbeck had a notable football career spanning nine seasons in the NFL. Standing at 6-foot-7, he was known for his size, athleticism, and leadership. He began his professional journey with the New England Patriots, where he was a key part of the offense from 1977 to 1983. His contributions in New England helped solidify his reputation as a dependable and tough tight end during a gritty era of the league.
In 1983, Hasselbeck joined the Los Angeles Raiders and achieved the pinnacle of NFL success. That year, he earned a Super Bowl ring as part of the Raiders’ championship team. His impact in the game was felt not just on offense but also on special teams, where he notably blocked an extra point against Washington during Super Bowl XVIII.
Hasselbeck wrapped up his career with the New York Giants in 1985. Though he played just one season with the team, he made an immediate impact. He caught a touchdown pass during the Giants’ Wild Card playoff win over the San Francisco 49ers and served as a veteran presence in the locker room. Most importantly, he became an early mentor to Mark Bavaro, who would go on to become an All-Pro tight end and one of the Giants’ most beloved players.
The Hasselbeck football legacy carried on into the next generation. In 2005, twenty years after Don’s season with the Giants, his son Tim Hasselbeck signed with the team as a backup quarterback to Eli Manning. Tim reflected on his father’s time with the organization, saying, “Walking into the locker room here, it was kind of funny, because not a whole lot has changed in 20 years.”
Don Hasselbeck’s legacy extends beyond his on-field achievements. He will be remembered not only as a Super Bowl champion and respected teammate, but also as a father who helped nurture two sons into NFL quarterbacks. His influence on and off the field will leave a lasting impression on the sport and those who knew him. He is survived by his wife and three sons.
