Legendary NFL Quarterback Passes Away

Norm Snead, who had a 17-season career as an NFL quarterback, followed by a 10-season tenure as the head coach of the Newport News Apprentice School football team, passed away on Sunday at the age of 84.

Residing in Naples, Florida, Snead’s passing came after a prolonged illness, as shared by his younger brother Danny. Since the early 1990s, Snead had been living in Florida, where he engaged in small business ventures and worked in real estate until recently.

Snead’s football journey began in college, where he honed his skills as a quarterback, setting the stage for a successful entry into the NFL. His impressive college career caught the attention of professional scouts, leading to his selection by the Washington Redskins in the NFL draft.

Starting his career with the Redskins, Snead quickly made a name for himself with his strong arm and precise passing. His tenure with the Redskins laid the foundation for what would become a notable NFL career. Following his time in Washington, Snead went on to play for the Philadelphia Eagles, where he continued to demonstrate his ability as a leading quarterback.

Snead’s career also included stints with other NFL teams, each marked by his consistent performance. He played for the Minnesota Vikings, the New York Giants, and the San Francisco 49ers. At each team, Snead brought his signature style of play, characterized by strategic thinking and a strong passing game. His adaptability allowed him to fit into different team dynamics and offensive strategies.

“I remember him as someone who would stop at the (Newport News) Boys Club, when it was on Jefferson Avenue, to play games with the boys and encourage them,” Snead’s brother told The Virginia Pilot. “He was more than one-dimensional, more than just a football player, and I think he influenced a lot of people positively off of the football field.”

Throughout his time in the NFL, Snead earned four Pro Bowl selections. While his individual achievements were notable, the teams he played for often struggled to find consistent success. Nonetheless, Snead’s contributions to each team were significant, and he was respected by teammates and coaches alike for his professionalism and dedication to the sport.

After retiring from the NFL, Snead’s legacy remained as that of a skilled and adaptable quarterback, remembered for his contributions to the Redskins, Eagles, Vikings, Giants, and 49ers, and for his overall impact on the game during his era.