Dolphins Legend and Pro Football Hall of Famer Nick Buoniconti Dies at 78

Somber news has hit the football world today. Nick Buoniconti, an All-American linebacker at Notre Dame who went on to star for the Boston Patriots before winning back-to-back Super Bowls with the Miami Dolphins, has passed away. He was 78 years old.

A 12-year pro football veteran, Buoniconti is best remembered as a member of the 1972 Dolphins team that went a perfect 17-0, still the only team in NFL history to finish a season without a single loss. An eight-time All-AFL and two-time Pro Bowl selection, the bruising 'backer is a member of both the Dolphins' and Patriots' respective Hall of Fames, and was enshrined in Canton at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2001.

"Nick Buoniconti was a true hero of the game," said Pro Football Hall of Fame President David Baker in an official statement. "His inspiring Hall of Fame journey that started as a 13th round draft choice to leading the Dolphins' "No Name" defense is one filled with grit, determination, courage, and compassion. Nick's contributions off the field were even greater than what he did on it. He lived a life of honor and nobility and his legacy will live forever through his Bronzed Bust in Canton, Ohio."

After his playing career, Buoniconti earned distinction raising funds for research into brain and spine injuries. It was personal for him, as his son, Marc, was rendered paralyzed as a result of an injury suffered as a college football player. Two years before his death, the elder Buoniconti pledged to donate his brain for the purpose of further research into the causes and effects of CTE.

Few have lived as many lives as Nick Buoniconti. He will be missed, and our thoughts are with his family at this most difficult of times.