John Madden Retires

Legendary NFL broadcaster and Pro Football Hall of Famer John Madden announced his retirement today. Obviously, it was a sad day for everyone who has enjoyed his unique brand of analysis and commentary since 1979. John’s style was as unique a voice as professional sports has ever seen. If you include his time as head coach of the Oakland Raiders (1969-1979), I can’t ever remember pro football without him.

John Madden / Photo: Newscom

John spoke briefly about his decision today:

“You know at some point you have to do this — I got to that point. The thing that made it hard is not because I’m second guessing, ‘Is it the right decision?’ But I enjoyed it so damn much. I enjoyed the game and the players and the coaches and the film and the travel and everything. If you hated part of it or if something was wrong, it’d be easy (to retire).”

His enthusiasm and passion for football are what made him so popular. My fondest memories of his work (aside from his tremendous knowledge of the game) include his quirky phrases and appreciation for the “lunch bucket” players of the NFL. His was a voice for the blue collar working class to embrace. And then there were his infamous Thanksgiving Day turduckens. And, of course, the Madden NFL video game series for EA Sports, which continues to be the top-selling sports video game of all-time. The guy has more than left his mark on a game and an industry.

When John was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame three years ago (thankfully, I was there), he made a humorous comment that will stick with past, present and future Hall of Famers forever. It was his unique idea that when everyone left the Hall at night, the busts of the inducted players would come to life and talk to each other. Who else but John Madden would come up with such a concept? It really typified his thought process and football fans are forever grateful for having had the opportunity to enjoy his work.

John will be replaced by Cris Collinsworth. He’ll have big shoes to fill — literally and figuratively.

Source: NFL.com