Don Meredith: Original MNF Member and Dallas Cowboys Quarterback Passes Away

Don Meredith has passed away at the age of 72 after suffering a brain hemorrhage in his Santa Fe home.

Meredith had a great career on and off the football field.

In 1960 Meredith was a third round draft choice of the Chicago Bears, but was immediately traded to the expansion Dallas Cowboys for future draft picks.

It wasn't until 1965 that Meredith won the starting quarterback job outright.

By 1966 Meredith was leading the Cowboys to their first winning season ever with a 10-3-1 record. That same year he was elected to the first of his two Pro Bowl appearances after throwing for 24 touchdowns and 2,805 yards.

Additionally he was named NFL Player of the Year for the 1966 season.

In consecutive years, 1966 and 1967, he would lead the Cowboys to the NFL championship, but lose on both occasions.

After an awful playoff performance against the Cleveland Browns, Meredith shocked the NFL and its fans by deciding to retire prematurely in 1968.

Just eight years after his retirement, he became the second player inducted into the Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor.

Shortly following his NFL career, Meredith joined the Monday Night Football crew with Frank Gifford and Howard Cosell.

While on Monday Night Football, Meredith became known for his good nature and humor. 

His signature was to sing the Willie Nelson song, "Turn Out the Lights" when a game's outcome had been decided. 

Meredeth retired from MNF in 1984.