Today, the sports world pauses to remember and honor one of football’s most iconic figures—John Madden—on what would have been his 89th birthday. Known for his booming voice, larger-than-life personality, and unmatched football intellect, Madden’s legacy continues to shape the game even years after his passing.
Former Raiders players, coaches, and colleagues took to social media to pay tribute to the Hall of Fame coach, broadcaster, and video game icon. Howie Long, a cornerstone of the Raiders during Madden’s era, shared a heartfelt message: “Coach Madden wasn’t just a football genius—he was a mentor, a friend, and a voice for the game. We miss him every day.”
The Las Vegas Raiders also honored Madden with a special video tribute, revisiting some of his most memorable moments on the sidelines and in the broadcast booth. Current and former NFL stars echoed the sentiment, calling Madden a “legend” and “the voice of football for generations.”
Fans flooded timelines with clips from old broadcasts and personal stories of how Madden inspired them, whether through his coaching, his unmistakable commentary, or the groundbreaking “Madden NFL” video game series that introduced football to millions of young fans.
John Madden was more than just a coach or commentator—he was the embodiment of football passion. On his birthday, we celebrate the indelible mark he left on the sport and the joy he brought to generations of fans. Happy Birthday, Coach Madden. You’ll never be forgotten.
