Julian Edelman Pays Tribute To NFL Legend Who Died At 85

The Green Bay Packers announced the death of legendary quarterback Bart Starr who was the Most Valuable Player of the first two Super Bowls. He died at 85. Patriots receiver Julian Edelman paid special tribute to the legend.

“We are saddened to note the passing of our husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Bart Starr. He battled with courage and determination to transcend the serious stroke he suffered in September 2014, but his most recent illness was too much to overcome.

While he may always be best known for his success as the Packers quarterback for 16 years, his true legacy will always be the respectful manner in which he treated every person he met, his humble demeanor, and his generous spirit.

“Our family wishes to thank the thousands of friends and fans who have enriched his life – and therefore our lives – for so many decades and especially during the past five years. Each letter, text, phone call and personal visit inspired him and filled him with joy.

“His love for all of humanity is well known, and his affection toward the residents of Alabama and of Wisconsin filled him with gratitude. He had hoped to make one last trip to Green Bay to watch the Packers this fall, but he shall forever be there in spirit.”

“The Packers Family was saddened today to learn of the passing of Bart Starr,” said Packers President/CEO Mark Murphy. “A champion on and off the field, Bart epitomized class and was beloved by generations of Packers fans. A clutch player who led his team to five NFL titles, Bart could still fill Lambeau Field with electricity decades later during his many visits. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Cherry and the entire Starr family.”

Starr led the Packers to five NFL champiobships. They had the 1961, 1962, and 1965 titles before the 1966 AFL-NFL merger and defeated the Chiefs and Raiders to start off the Super Bowl era.

“He called the right thing at the right time and he executed it,” former wide receiver and Starr teammate Boyd Dowler said in the release. “He never made a bad read. He never made a stupid throw. If somebody was open, he’d get you the ball. He knew what it took to win and he went about doing it. He was a tremendous competitor and he was so consistent.”