Hall of Famer and NFLPA Head Gene Upshaw Dead at 63

Geoff Townsend by Analyst Written on August 21, 2008
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Diagnosed only last Sunday, pancreatic cancer took the life of Gene Upshaw late Wednesday night.  He was 63.

Executive Director of National Football League Player's Association (NFLPA) since June 1983, Upshaw had been in the news of late in hearings regarding the policies and coverages of retired NFL players.

Upshaw, a Hall of Fame guard for the Raiders, was a seven-time Pro Bowl selection and a five-time First Team All-Pro.  He was a part of two Super Bowl championship teams as well.

Upshaw was also a vital part of bringing free agency to the NFL.

Kevin Mawae, the Player's Association President and center for the Tennessee Titans, has been in touch with Commissioner Roger Goodell to discuss how to honor Upshaw this upcoming season, but no plans have been formalized.

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written on August 21, 2008 Breaking News

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