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Miami Dolphins Legend Dies Suddenly — Cause Of Death Unknown

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This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.

A general view of a Miami Dolphins helmet on the grass
A general view of a Miami Dolphins helmet on the grass (Jasen Vinlove-Imagn Images)

The NFL world is in mourning once again following the tragic death of Manny Fernandez. Miami lost another member of the 1972 Perfect Team. He starred on the famed ‘No-Name Defense’ in the 1970s.

His death comes at the age of 79. The Dolphins announced his death, saying he passed away Sunday in Ellaville, Georgia. No cause of death was given.

Miami Dolphins Release Statement on Death of Manny Fernandez

Jan 13, 1974: Houston, TX, FILE PHOTO; Miami Dolphins defensive Manny Fernandez (83) and Jake Scott (13) stop Minnesota Vikings running back Ed Marinaro (49) in Super Bowl VIII at Rice Stadium. Miami defeated Minnesota 24-7 to win back to back world championships. Mandatory Credit: Malcolm Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Fernandez was on both of the Dolphins’ Super Bowl-winning teams, beginning with Miami’s historic 14-0 season in 1972. Another player on the team in that era, Randy Crowder, passed away last year at 72.

‘We are deeply saddened by the passing of Manny Fernandez, a member of the 1972 Perfect Team, a two-time Super Bowl champion, Ring of Honor member, and an anchor of the Dolphins’ legendary No-Name Defense,’ read the team statement.

“His consistent and selfless contributions on the field were instrumental to the Dolphins’ success throughout the 1970s, particularly in the team’s three consecutive Super Bowl appearances, in which he produced some of the most memorable defensive performances in the history of the game. Our thoughts are with his family, loved ones, and teammates as we remember one of the best players in Dolphins history.”

Fernandez was not selected in the 1968 NFL Draft out of the University of Utah, but he found his footing after signing with the Dolphins. He spent eight seasons as a starter on the defensive line. Those early Don Shula-led teams were notorious for toughness, grit, and discipline.

In his career, Fernandez racked up 35 sacks and six fumble recoveries in 103 regular-season games. He helped the Dolphins win Super Bowl VII with his best postseason performance yet, with 4.5 sacks in 10 games. Manny Fernandez logged a sack in each of his three appearances in the Super Bowl.

His most incredible feat was credited with 17 total tackles in Super Bowl VII. He was inducted into the Miami Dolphins’ Honor Roll in 2014. Manny ranks third all-time in team history for postseason sacks and 12th all-time for total sacks.

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