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Chick Ludwig covers the Cincinnati Bengals. He also writes about his other passions: college football, basketball and golf.Home > Blogs > Chick Ludwig At Large > Archives > 2008 > August > 21 > Entry
Upshaw’s death rocks football world
UPSHAW OPENED DOORS
FOR MEN LIKE RON TODD
The sudden, shocking death of Gene Upshaw — the NFL Players Association executive director and Pro Football Hall of Fame offensive tackle for the Oakland Raiders — has rocked the pro football world.
Mr. Upshaw died at the age of 63 from pancreatic cancer. The NFL confirmed his passing at 8:30 a.m. today, Aug. 21, 2008.
Mr. Upshaw played for the Oakland Raiders from 1967 to 1981. He was active in the players’ union and became its executive director shortly after his retirement as a player. He was enshrined in Canton in 1987.
“Without Gene Upshaw, I would not be in the position I am today,” Dayton, Ohio, agent Ronald C. Todd II told LUDWIG AT LARGE today.
Todd was is tears, his voice cracking, as he spoke about the impact Upshaw had on his life. Todd, a former Bowling Green State University offensive lineman from Belmont High School in Dayton, became a NFLPA certified contract advisor on Oct. 10, 1994.
“With me being an African-American male, and a non-attorney, the things Gene has done for guys like me are immeasurable,” Todd said. “He opened doors I never knew existed, and I told him that every time I saw him. I have the utmost respect for Mr. Upshaw.
“He’s done so much for NFL players, it’s unbelievable. He took the heat from owners in union negotiations and fought back. He was tough. When he walked into a room, you not only could see his presence, but you could feel it. He had an aura about him that was awe-inspiring.”
STATEMENT FROM THE NFLPA:
“We are deeply saddened and shocked by the sudden and unexpected death of our leader, Gene Upshaw.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Terri, and their three sons — Eugene, Justin and Daniel.
“Gene learned he was sick just this past Sunday (Aug. 17, 2008) and he died with his family at his side.
“We ask that everyone respect our need to begin the process of dealing with this unexpected tragedy and to begin the grieving process.”
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By クレジットカード 現金化
September 23, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this
検討に値する。