NFL fans react as legendary QB Marlin Briscoe passes away aged 76

At the age of 76, Marlin Briscoe, the first African-American quarterback to open the game in the modern era of the NFL, passed away on Monday. The news was confirmed by his daughter Angela to the Associated Press. According to reports, Briscoe had died from a case of pneumonia.

The Denver Broncos picked Briscoe, also known as “The Magician”, as a cornerback in the fourteenth round of the 1968 NFL Draft after the quarterback for Omaha University had a stellar career.

Briscoe, a man of principles, informed the club that if he didn’t receive a tryout at quarterback, he would quit football and go into teaching. By October, he was beginning off to the side. In his first season, he started five games as a quarterback and came in second in the AFL Rookie of the Year voting. He requested to be dismissed but was never given the opportunity to apply for the position the following season.

He later go on to play receiver for the Bills in the Pro Bowl and won two Super Bowls with the Dolphins, where he started for Miami’s undefeated 1972 squad.

How NFL fans on Twitter reacted to Marlin Briscoe’s death

“Today is a sad day for me. One of my Idols growing up, Marlin Briscoe, passed away. He was one of a few Black QBs of the late 60s that gave me the inspiration that one day I could play QB as a professional. Marlin was the 1st Black QB to start in the AFL.” tweeted Warren Moon.

Charles A. Steward tweeted, “Rest in paradise to North Omaha legend, Marlon “the Magician” Briscoe, the 1st Black starting QB in the modern era of pro football. Briscoe is often forgotten in history, but should ALWAYS be remembered as a pioneer who paved the way for every Black QB thereafter. I am grateful.” 

“Sad news as the Associated Press reports Marlin Briscoe, who became the first Black QB to start in the AFL when he did so for the Broncos in 1968, has died at the age of 76. The Broncos created a coaching fellowship in Briscoe’s honor ahead of the 2021 season.” as tweeted by Nick Kosmider.

Image Credits – LA Times

“Just spoke w/ Johnny Rodgers who said this about the passing of his friend Marlin Briscoe, “It’s a sad day, Marlin was one of the greatest of all time. Being from Omaha, he was a pillar of our community, Marlin was the man. I’m really going to miss him. It’s a big loss.” @KETV tweeted Andy Kendeigh.

Damon Amendolara wrote, “RIP Marlin Briscoe. What a legacy. The first black starting QB of the Super Bowl era. Great stat from the only rookie QB to throw 3 TDs in 3+ games (‘68) until Marino (‘83). Won 2 Super Bowls with Dolphins at WR. A true pioneer.”

“The passing of Marlin Briscoe is a tremendous loss to Broncos Country. His one season in Denver was exciting and historic. Here, one more time, is Marlin and Floyd Little telling the story of when Floyd was nearly cut on the football field during a game.” tweeted MileHighReport. 

 

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