The legendary quarterback of the Los Angeles Rams, Roman Gabriel, died on Saturday morning at the age of 83.

Roman Gabriel's death marks the end of an era for fans and former teammates alike. According to The Athletic, the team confirmed his death in a heartfelt statement. Gabriel's son, Roman Gabriel III, revealed that his father passed away due to natural causes at his home.

Roman Gabriel's impressive career began after being selected No. 1 by the Oakland Raiders in the 1962 AFL Draft. However, he chose to play for the Rams, who had selected him No. 2 in the NFL Draft the same year. This decision would start a journey filled with achievement and recognition.

In the late 1960s, Gabriel’s prowess as a quarterback became widely recognized. From 1967 to 1969, he received Pro Bowl selections each year, showcasing his skill and consistency on the field.

His performance reached a pinnacle in 1969 when he was honored with the NFL MVP and an All-Pro selection.

1969: A Year of Triumphs and Challenges

1969 was a significant year for Gabriel; he led the league with 24 touchdown passes and guided the Rams to an impressive 11-3 record.

Unfortunately, despite their outstanding season, the team lost to the Minnesota Vikings in the divisional round. This marked a high point in Gabriel’s career, emphasizing his leadership and ability.

Following his successful tenure with the Rams, Gabriel joined the Philadelphia Eagles in 1973. His impact was immediate; he made his fourth Pro Bowl appearance and was named the Comeback Player of the Year.

Gabriel's first season with the Eagles saw him leading the NFL in three major passing categories: completions (27), touchdowns (23), and yards (3,219).

Roman Gabriel retired from professional football in 1977, having played five seasons with the Eagles. His career statistics were impressive, with 201 touchdowns and 29,444 yards over 183 games.

Gabriel's influence on the field was undeniable, marking him as one of the greatest in NFL history.

Life After the NFL

After his retirement, Gabriel did not stray far from football. He took up coaching, leading the team at Cal Poly Pomona from 1980 to 1982.

He also served as the offensive coordinator for the USFL’s Boston Breakers in 1983. These roles allowed Gabriel to continue his passion for football, shaping new talents and influencing the game from a different perspective.

In recognition of his outstanding college football career, Roman Gabriel was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1989. This honor reflected not only his skill as a player but also the impact he had on the sport during his college years.

The Rams expressed their sorrow over Gabriel's passing. "We mourn the loss of Rams legend and football pioneer Roman Gabriel. We extend our condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time," they stated. This sentiment echoes the feelings of many in the sports community who admired Gabriel as a player and person.

Reflecting on Roman Gabriel's Legacy

Roman Gabriel's son shared a simple but touching tribute on X: “He passed of natural causes at his home.” This passing marks the end of an impactful and storied life.

Roman Gabriel leaves behind a legacy filled with groundbreaking achievements and inspirational moments. His journey from a top NFL draft pick to a football coaching role exemplifies his dedication and love for the game. He remains a symbol of excellence and resilience in professional football.

In conclusion, Roman Gabriel’s death saddens the sports world, but his contributions to football will not be forgotten. His successful NFL career, coaching, and contributions to developing players post-retirement emphasize his lasting impact on the sport.