In a somber turn of events, the football world bids farewell to a true legend today. Jacob “Jack” Squirek, the former NFL linebacker who etched his name in history as a crucial piece of the Raiders’ Super Bowl triumph, passed away on Friday at the age of 64.
It is with heavy hearts that we report the loss of a beloved member of the NFL fraternity. Jack Squirek’s impact on the game, especially during his tenure with the Raiders, remains indelible.
Squirek’s journey into NFL stardom began when he was drafted by the then-Los Angeles Raiders in 1982, a second-round pick out of Illinois. Over four seasons with the team, he showcased his skills in 53 regular-season games, including seven intense playoff matchups. In that time, Squirek made his mark with eight starts, three sacks, two fumble recoveries, and a pivotal interception.
However, it’s his unforgettable interception during Super Bowl XVIII against the Washington Redskins in 1984 that will forever be etched in the annals of football history. In a game-changing play, Squirek read the Redskins’ screenplay, intercepting quarterback Joe Theismann’s pass and sprinting five yards to the end zone. This remarkable moment not only gave the Raiders a commanding 21-3 lead but also secured their Super Bowl victory. For Squirek, it was the pinnacle of his career, and it’s a moment that still resonates with football enthusiasts around the world.
In an interview with Fox Sports 1340AM in 2021, Squirek reminisced about that incredible Super Bowl moment, saying, “It’s something I’ll never forget. When you win a Super Bowl together, your team is almost like a family. We have reunions every year with the Raiders, so we get to see everybody. It’s always special not only winning a Super Bowl but knowing that you contributed like that. I feel blessed that I went to a team that had great players.”
After his tenure with the Raiders, Squirek concluded his professional career with the Miami Dolphins, playing in the first two games of the 1986 season. While his journey in the NFL had its ups and downs, his legacy was cemented by his unwavering dedication and unforgettable plays on the field.
Jack Squirek leaves behind a grieving family, including his wife Penny, children Jacob III and Cassandra, and a cherished grandchild with another on the way. Our hearts go out to them during this difficult time.
While the cause of his passing remains undisclosed, it is known that Squirek had been battling an illness for several months, as reported by the Las Vegas Review-Journal.
The Raiders organization, where Squirek spent a significant part of his career, paid tribute to the fallen hero, stating, “The Raiders Family is mourning the loss of Jack Squirek. Squirek played four years for the Raiders and was a central figure in one of pro football’s all-time great plays. The thoughts and deepest condolences of the Raider Nation are with the Squirek family at this time.”
Today, we remember Jack Squirek not only for his remarkable football prowess but also for the indomitable spirit that defined his journey in the NFL. His legacy lives on, and he will forever remain a cherished chapter in the history of the Las Vegas Raiders and the entire football community.
