Former Dallas Cowboys player, legendary NFL coach Dan Reeves passes away

The NFL world lost a man who gave most of his life to the sport of football on Saturday. The great NFL player and coach Dan Reeves passed away Saturday morning.

Reeves’ family released a statement to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo.

“Legendary NFL player and coach Dan Reeves passed away early this morning, peacefully and surrounded by his loving family at his home in Atlanta, GA. He passed away at age 77 due to complications from a long illness. His legacy will continue through his many friends, players and fans as well as the rest of the NFL community. Arrangements are still to be determined.”

Throughout his career, Reeves made it to nine Super Bowls. In his 38 combined years as an NFL player and coach, the aforementioned legend made his impact on multiple cities and franchises.

As a player, Reeves was a hard-nosed running back for the Cowboys. During his time, he helped Dallas find victory in Super Bowl VI. All in all, he ended his playing career with 1,990 rushing yards and 25 touchdowns.

Prior to Dallas, Reeves was a star for the South Carolina Gamecocks at quarterback. While he was more comfortable running the ball – as evident by his NFL career as a running back – Reeves still ended his career at South Carolina as their leading passer. He was honored for his time — inducted into the school’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 1977, and into the State of South Carolina Athletic Hall of Fame in 2006.

Moreover, his impact as a coach may have exceeded his playing career. After beginning his career as an assistant with the Cowboys, Reeves went on to lead the Denver Broncos, New York Giants and Atlanta Falcons. As a coach, Reeves won Super Bowl XII, and was named the NFL Coach of the Year in 1993 and 1998.

In his coaching career, Reeves won 190 games over his time with three franchises. Furthermore, he was honored by the Denver Broncos in 2014 — inducted into the franchise’s Ring of Honor for his contributions.

Dan Reeves was one of the premier coaches in the NFL for over two decades. His impact on the game, and on multiple franchises will never be questioned. The legend gave so much time to the game, and the game is better for it.