NFL Films President Steve Sabol Dies at Age 69

The NFL community is mourning the loss of it Films President Steve Sabol.

Sabol died on Tuesday, Sept. 18 at the age of 69 after an 18-month battle with brain cancer.

"Steve Sabol was the creative genius behind the remarkable work of NFL Films," NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said. "Steve's passion for football was matched by his incredible talent and energy. Steve's legacy will be part of the NFL forever. He was a major contributor to the success of the NFL, a man who changed the way we look at football and sports, and a great friend."

Sabol and his father, Ed, who was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Feb. 5, 2011, were honored in 2003 with the Lifetime Achievement Emmy from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences for "revolutionizing the way America watches football and setting the standard in sports filmmaking." The Emmy was presented by the late Tim Russert, host of Meet the Press.

Sabol has received 35 Emmys for writing, cinematography, editing, directing, and producing, becoming the only person in all of television has earned as many Emmys in as many different categories.

Sabol was named the 2002 Sports Executive of the Year by Sporting News magazine and received the prestigious Pete Rozelle Award, which is presented each year to someone who has made an outstanding contribution to the National Football League and to professional football.

In 2007, the Pro Football Hall of Fame honored Sabol with the Dan Reeves Pioneer Award recognizing his innovative ideas that have contributed to the game of professional football.

"Steve Sabol leaves a lasting impact on the National Football League that will be felt for a long time to come," Executive Director of the NFL Players Association DeMaurice Smith said. :His vision and innovation helped make him a pioneer the likes of which the NFL has never seen before and won't see again."

Pittsburgh Steelers President Art Rooney II said the impact that Sabol and his father have had on the NFL in creating and growing NFL Films will continue to be enjoyed for years to come by NFL fans everywhere.

Other members of the NFL community took to Twitter to express their condolences.

Terrell Owens (via Twitter): RIP Steve Sabol. I was fortunate 2 work w/Steve during my tenure w/the SF 49ers. Thanks 4 the memories then & now & those 2 come...

Jamal Anderson (via Twitter): R.I.P. Steve Sabol. The game wouldn't be the same without your vision, hard work, and love. From my childhood, to my Super Bowl, Thank you!

Barry Sanders (via Twitter): I am greatly saddened to learn of the passing of Steve Sabol. I would like to send my most heartfelt condolences to the Sabol family.

Pete Carroll (via Twitter): Sad to hear about the passing of Steve Sabol, the president and co-founder of NFL Films. Sending condolences to his family and friends.