Former Patriots Tight End Dies In Plane Crash

Former New England Patriots tight end Russ Francis lost his life in a plane crash in Lake Placid, New York, on Sunday, per closest family members. The former Pro Bowl tight end was 70.

An NTSB spokesperson reported that Francis or Richard McSpadden, a former commander of the US Air Force Thunderbirds, flew the plane. They rolled hard to the left and crashed.

The Patriots delivered an emotional message amid the tragedy.

“We are deeply saddened by the sudden and tragic loss of former New England Patriots tight end Russ Francis,” the Patriots said in a team statement. “Our condolences are extended to Francis’ family and friends.”

We are deeply saddened by the sudden and tragic loss of former New England Patriots tight end Russ Francis. Our condolences are extended to Francis’ family and friends. pic.twitter.com/sgrrPZ5Ui4

— New England Patriots (@Patriots) October 2, 2023

The former tight end finished his career with the Patriots

The Patriots selected Francis in the first round of the 1975 draft. He had an incredible performance with the team and made three Pro Bowls. Francis took his talent to the San Francisco 49ers in 1982 and won a Super Bowl in 1984. He went back home to the Patriots and finished his career in 1988. Francis had 393 receptions for 5,262 yards and 40 touchdowns in his career.

Patriots owner Robert Kraft had great words for the former Pro Bowl tight end.

“He was a dynamic player on the field who had an even bigger personality off it,” Kraft said. “He knew no boundaries, pushed the limits and lived his life to the fullest. Our thoughts are with Russ’s family, friends, teammates and the many Patriots fans who mourn his loss.”

Football was not his only passion and Francis was also into aviation. He even bought Lake Placid Airways. According to The Boston Globe, Francis was authorized to fly single- and multiengine planes and helicopters.

Francis’ brother Ed Francis explained that flying was his “lifelong passion,” adding that it was “perhaps a fitting way for him to go.”

Francis was also a professional wrestler and did radio and media jobs.

We are sending our thoughts and players to his friends and family.