NFL Film’s Steve Sabol Dies From Brain Cancer

Steve Sabol, President of NFL Films, passed away this morning after an 18 month battle with brain cancer at the age of 69.

Sabol begin his career in film making in 1962 when his father, Ed Sabol, got the rights to film the 1962 NFL Championship. As his father’s company grew, Sabol worked as a cameraman, editor and writer throughout the 1960s and 1970s. When Sabol took over as President of NFL Films in 1985 the popularity of his father’s dream grew. Under new leadership, NFL Films began to produce the celebrated shows “Hard Knocks,” “NFL Films Presents” and “Football Follies.” He would go on to win over 40 Emmy Awards through his tenure.

“Steve was the creative genius behind NFL Films’ remarkable work,” NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in an email to NFL personnel on Tuesday. “Steve’s passion for football was matched only by his talent and energy. He was a major contributor to the success of the NFL, a man who changed the way we looked at football and sports, and a great friend. His legacy is assured.

“Steve was an incredible visionary. He spent 50 years at the NFL and changed the way we see pro football. So when you’re watching the games this week, it’s worth remembering just how much Steve contributed to the way we think, see, and love our game.”

NFL.com said it best today: “The story of the NFL can’t be told without Steve Sabol. May he rest in peace.”