Don Hasselbeck, a former NFL tight end renowned for his tenure with the New England Patriots and as the patriarch of a football family, passed away on April 14, 2025, at the age of 70 due to cardiac arrest at his home according to his son, Matt Hasselbeck.
Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Hasselbeck showcased his athletic prowess at La Salle High School before excelling at the University of Colorado, where he earned All-American honors. In the 1977 NFL Draft, he was selected in the second round by the Patriots. During his six seasons in New England (1977–1983), Hasselbeck became a reliable target, leading the team in 1981 with 46 receptions for 808 yards and six touchdowns.
Midway through the 1983 season, Hasselbeck was traded to the Los Angeles Raiders. He contributed to the Raiders' victory in Super Bowl XVIII, notably blocking an extra point in their 38–9 win over Washington. Subsequent stints with the New York Giants and Minnesota Vikings rounded out his nine-year NFL career, culminating in 107 receptions, 1,542 yards, and 18 touchdowns over 123 games.
Beyond his professional achievements, Hasselbeck's legacy is deeply rooted in his family. His sons, Matt and Tim Hasselbeck, both pursued careers as NFL quarterbacks. Matt enjoyed a distinguished career from 1998 to 2015, leading the Seattle Seahawks to a Super Bowl appearance and earning a place in the team's Ring of Honor. Tim's career included time with several NFL teams and a World Bowl X championship with the Berlin Thunder, followed by a successful tenure as a sports analyst.
Reflecting on his father's impact, Matt Hasselbeck shared on social media:
"He was a great husband, father, grandfather, friend, coach, player, coworker, artist, mentor, and storyteller. Despite being an All-American at Colorado and a Super Bowl Champion with the Raiders, what we are most proud of is the leader he was for our family."
Don Hasselbeck's contributions to football, both on the field and through his family's continued involvement in the sport, leave an enduring legacy.
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