One of the most entertaining, larger-than-life characters in the history of the sport of football at any level is gone.
Following a couple of reports that were labeled premature, the family of Kenny Stabler released a statement through Facebook confirming that the Alabama and Oakland Raider quarterbacking legend passed away Wednesday. According to the family, Stabler died due to complications associated with colon cancer.
‘The Snake,” as he was dubbed in high school during a scintillating touchdown run, was 69 years old.
Stabler became nationally known during his time at Alabama from 1964-67. He was a freshman on Bear Bryant‘s ’64 title team, then helped lead the Tide to a perfect 11-0 record in 1966 as UA’s starting quarterback. His senior year, Stabler was kicked off the team by Bryant before the coaching legend was given a second chance.
His greatest achievement at the Tuscaloosa school was arguably his record as starting quarterback: 28–3–2.
A second-round pick in the 1968 NFL draft, Stabler went on to a career that should’ve already landed him in the Hall of Fame.
Our thoughts, prayers and condolences go out to those impacted by Stabler’s passing.
