Mark J. Rebilas-US PRESSWIRE
The NFL lost a great man today. Steve Sabol, one of the original founders of NFL Films and one of the most influential people in the NFL’s brief history, lost his battle with a brain tumor and passed away today. The NFL is better because of Sabol, and fans everywhere should take a moment to honor his memory. No doubt teams across the league will honor Sabol in some way this coming weekend.
Steve’s father, Ed, started NFL Films back in the 50s and Steve has turned it into the incredible production company it is today, consistently coming out with terrific films such as America’s Game, the series that centers around the Super Bowl champs every year.
The NFL lost one of its most influential figures and the world lost a great man. RIP, Steve Sabol.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 18, 2012
Sabol has earned 35 Emmys himself in multiple categories, making him one of the most influential people in the entertainment world, let alone the sports world. NFL Films has won over 100 Emmys while under Sabol’s direction.
With the rest of NFL world, heartbroken to hear of Steve Sabol’s death. Quite a man. #RIP
— Chris Mortensen (@mortreport) September 18, 2012
Ed was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2011, and no doubt Steve will one day make it there. He deserves nothing less. The NFL owes a debt of gratitude to Ed and Steve Sabol. The popularity of the NFL no doubt positively benefited as a result of their vision. NFL Films has a heavy heart today, and so does the NFL, but life will go on and Sabol’s influence will be felt long after he is laid to rest.
R.I.P.
Jeff is an NFL Featured Columnist for www.RantSports.com. Like Jeff’s Facebook Page here. Follow him on Twitter @Jeff_Shull
