Miami Dolphins Super Bowl star Manny Fernandez died at the age of 79, according to the team.
The NFL team announced his passing Tuesday on Instagram, referring to Fernandez as “one of the best players in Dolphins history.”
His cause of death and the circumstances surrounding his death were not publicly disclosed.
The legendary Dolphins defensive lineman left a mark on the team’s history that will forever be remembered.
“His consistent and selfless contributions on the field were instrumental to the Dolphins’ success throughout the early 1970s, particular 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,” the Dolphins wrote on social media.
MIAMI, FLORIDA – DECEMBER 16: Bill Arnsparger, Defensive Coordinator of the Miami Dolphins, speaks with Bill Stanfill, Defensive End, and Manny Fernandez, Defensive Tackle, during an NFL Football game against the Baltimore Colts, December 16, 1972. (Photo by Ross Lewis/Getty Images)
“Our thoughts are with his family, loved ones and teammates,” they said.
Fernandez attended Chabot Junior College before enrolling at Utah, according to TMZ. He went undrafted before signing with the Miami Dolphins. Fernandez became a star player with the Dolphins when they won two Super Bowls, and was part of the legendary 1972 perfect team. (RELATED: Kyle Busch’s Cause Of Death Was Severe Pneumonia That Progressed To Sepsis)
The athlete was also a member of the Ring of Honor and “an anchor of the Dolphins’ legendary No-Name Defense,” according to the team’s statement.
Fernandez was named second team All-Pro in both 1970 and 1973 as well as a 1971 All-AFC selection and a selection for second-team All-AFC in 1972 and 1973, according to The Miami Herald. He secured four consecutive seasons featuring postseason honors.