Chuck Bednarik, NFL Hall of Famer, Dies at Age 89

Philadelphia Eagles legend and Hall of Famer Chuck Bednarik passed away Saturday in Pennsylvania following a brief illness. He was 89.

The longtime two-way player is a member of both the College Football and Pro Football Halls of Fame.

Bednarik played college football at the University of Pennsylvania before getting drafted by the Eagles with the first overall pick in 1949. He never left the organization, playing both center and linebacker from 1949-1962.

He was an eight-time Pro Bowler, 10-time All-Pro and two-time champion (1949, 1960). Beyond those accolades, he'll long be remembered for his ferocious tackling ability.

The Eagles provided remarks from chairman and CEO Jeffrey Lurie:

Zach Berman of The Philadelphia Inquirer passed along comments from head coach Chip Kelly:

Lincoln Financial Field showcased Bednarik's retired No. 60:

Fellow Hall of Famer Eric Dickerson sent along his condolences:

Former Eagle and current ESPN analyst Ron Jaworski thanked Bednarik for the memories:

ESPN Stats & Info provided further information:

Along with his football career, Bednarik spent time in the military during World War II as part of the Army Air Corps as a B-24 waist gunner after finishing high school.

From that point forward, he displayed legendary toughness. His most iconic football moment came when he delivered a huge hit on Frank Gifford of the New York Giants in 1960, now known simply as "The Tackle."

However, he's perhaps best remembered for his tackle on the final play of the 1960 title game, where he manhandled Green Bay Packers fullback Jim Taylor at the 9-yard line to preserve the win.