Former New York Jets quarterback Browning Nagle has died at the age of 57. Nagle died from complications from colon cancer the team announced this past week.
Nagle was selected by the Jets with the 34th overall pick in the 1991 NFL Draft. Nagle was known as a very fan friendly player who went out of his way to spend time with the gang green faithful.
He spent three seasons with the Jets and was their opening day QB for the 1992 season. That year, Nagle went 3-10 while throwing for 2,280 yards, seven touchdowns, and 17 interceptions. He later served as a backup to Boomer Esiason during the 1993 campaign.
Esiason shared a heartfelt remembrance following the news. He described Nagle as a great person with an infectious laugh who was always fun to be around. He also recalled their competitive friendship, especially on the golf course, and said Nagle lived an impactful life.
After he left the Jets in 1994, Nagle spent one season with the Indianapolis Colts, where he posted a 1-0 record as a starter, before later playing two seasons with the Atlanta Falcons.
Before reaching the NFL, Nagle starred at University of Louisville. He started for two seasons and was named Most Valuable Player of the 1991 Fiesta Bowl after leading Louisville to a 34-7 victory over Alabama Crimson Tide in his final college game.
Louisville also released a statement honoring their former quarterback, praising his leadership and passion for the game while offering condolences to his family, friends, and former teammates.
Nagle later continued his football career in the Arena Football League, playing for the Orlando Predators and Buffalo Destroyers from 1999 to 2000.