Former Commissioner Paul Tagliabue has died at the age of 84

Paul Tagliabue, who led the National Football League through a period of remarkable growth and stability during his 17 years as NFL commissioner, passed away at the age of 84. The apparent cause of death was heart failure complicated by Parkinson’s disease, his family said.

Tagliabue became the league’s fifth commissioner in 1989. He succeeded Pete Rozelle and served until 2006when Roger Goodell took over. Under his leadership, The NFL expanded from 28 to 32 teamsadding the Carolina Panthers, the Jacksonville Jaguars, the modern Cleveland Browns, and the Houston Texans. He also helped secure the construction or renovation of dozens of stadiums, negotiated record television contracts and introduced both free agency and the salary cap. All of this has transformed the league’s competitive and financial landscape.

Paul Tagliabue left a lasting legacy in the NFL

During his tenure, the NFL avoided lockouts. It was a testament to Tagliabue’s collaboration with players’ union leader Gene Upshaw. He credits their partnership and the influence of Pittsburgh Steelers owner Dan Rooney for maintaining a balance between ownership and players. The league’s revenues increased during this period and its global profile reached unprecedented levels.

Tagliabue also provided stable leadership during national crises. After the 9/11 attacks, he made the unprecedented decision to cancel NFL games that weekend. The move set an example for other professional leagues. After Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans in 2005, he ensured that the Saints would eventually return to the city. It was a decision that was praised for its impact on community recovery.

Moreover, his influence extended beyond the field. Tagliabue was instrumental in moving the 1993 Super Bowl from Arizona when the state refused to recognize Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and later served as Georgetown University’s board of trustees chairman from 2009-2015.

A native of Jersey City, New Jersey, Tagliabue played basketball at Georgetown before earning a law degree at New York University. He was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020 for his lasting contributions to the sport.

He is survived by his wife Chandler, his son Drew and daughter Emily.