In a somber moment for the football community, Norm Snead, the iconic quarterback who graced the NFL with his talent for 16 illustrious seasons, including a remarkable stint with the Giants in 1972, has breathed his last in Naples, Florida. He was 84.
Snead’s journey through the gridiron was one of triumphs and tribulations, cementing his name in the annals of American football history. Today, we remember the man who made his mark as a pro-bowl quarterback and touched countless lives with his dedication and passion for the game.
Snead’s brother, Danny, sadly confirmed his passing after a prolonged battle with illness, a reminder of the indomitable spirit that defined his career.
A true football luminary, Snead’s legacy was etched in his college days at Wake Forest, where he not only earned the distinction of having his No. 16 jersey retired but also claimed the title of First-Team All-ACC in both 1959 and 1960.
Norm Snead’s journey in the NFL began with the Washington franchise, where he made his maiden Pro Bowl appearances in 1961 and 1962. However, fate had other plans, and he was later traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for the legendary Sonny Jurgensen. His resilience and skill eventually earned him another Pro Bowl nod in 1965, marking his enduring impact on the sport.
The late 1960s saw Snead face his fair share of challenges, but he continued to persevere. A change of scenery landed him with the Minnesota Vikings in 1971, where he continued to exhibit his dedication to the game. But destiny took an interesting turn when the New York Giants acquired him to steer their ship, replacing the legendary Fran Tarkenton.
In 1972, Snead donned the Giants’ colors with pride, guiding them to an 8-5 record as a starter. It was a remarkable season where he led the league in completion percentage and demonstrated his prowess by tossing more touchdowns than interceptions for the first time in half a decade. He left an indelible mark on the franchise, becoming a beacon of hope during a period of struggle for the Giants.
It wasn’t until 1981 that the Giants would experience another winning season, and it would be another four years before another Giants quarterback, Phil Simms, would make a Pro Bowl appearance. Norm Snead’s contributions during his time with the Giants were a testament to his enduring legacy in the sport.
Snead’s remarkable journey didn’t stop there; he continued to make his mark with the San Francisco 49ers before reuniting with the Giants once more in 1976, concluding his storied career with an impressive 30,000+ passing yards to his name.
Reflecting on his journey in a 2020 interview, Snead humbly shared, “I played whether I was hurt or whether I was expected to play or whatever the reason, I played. I enjoyed all the cities that I played in and the people I played with. That’s what I’m most proud of – that relationship.”
While a Super Bowl ring eluded him, he acknowledged that it was every player’s dream, yet he recognized that greatness in the NFL transcended championship rings.
Norm Snead’s impact extended beyond the field, as he served as the head coach at The Apprentice School, a vocational institution in Virginia, on two occasions. He later transitioned into real estate, showcasing his versatility and adaptability.
Today, we pay our respects to Norm Snead, an NFL legend whose passion, perseverance, and dedication to the game will forever be etched in the hearts of football enthusiasts. Share your memories of this remarkable quarterback in the comments below.
