NFL's first Fil-Am quarterback, 1969 MVP Roman Gabriel passes away

Source: The Manila times

MANILA, Philippines: The National Football League's 1969 Most Valuable Player (MVP) and the league's first Filipino-American quarterback Roman Gabriel passed away on Sunay.

He was 83.

Gabriel's son Roman III announced the legend's death on X on April 21.

"I am sad to announce my father Roman Gabriel passed away peacefully this morning of natural causes at his home. The entire family asked for your prayers, and to please respect our privacy. I love you dad."

The 6-foot-5 Gabriel played 15 years in the NFL from 1962 to 1977.

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The 2-time passing touchdown leader (1969, 1973) spent the first 10 years of his career with the Los Angeles Rams and the last five with the Philadelphia Eagles.

The Rams on X said that they share the grief of Gabriel's family as one of the best players in their franchise took his last breath.

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"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."

The Eagles also took to social media to acknowledge Gabriel's death.

"The Eagles are saddened to learn of the passing of Roman Gabriel."