Chuck Bednarik, Eagles legend, passes away at 89

Today is a sad day.

According to Les Bowen, Philadelphia Eagles legend and Pro Football Hall of Fame member Chuck Bednarik passed away early on Saturday morning. The Bethlehem, Pennsylvania native was 89.

Bednarik is obviously one of the most prolific players not only in Eagles history but the history of American football itself. Bednarik's highly-decorated career featured eight Pro Bowl selections, 10 All-Pro selections, and two NFL championships. He was a key figure on the last championship won by the Eagles all the way back in 1960.

Bednarik was one the game's last two-way players; he lined up at both center and linebacker. He even spent time as a punter.

Before he started his football career, Bednarik went off to war at the young age of 18 and survived over 30 missions in the Air Force. He was the No. 1 overall pick in the 1949 NFL Draft upon his return home to the United States.

One of Bednarik's most memorable plays was the huge hit he put on New York Giants running back Frank Gifford. As pictured here:

Eagles are saddened to learn of the passing of one of our all-time greats, @ProFootballHOF LB/C Chuck Bednarik. pic.twitter.com/jR3S9LM9n7

— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) March 21, 2015

I had the pleasure of interviewing Bednarik in 2013. Check that out here.

I once wrote that Bednarik is the greatest Eagles player of all-time. He was tough as nails, he fought to protect his country off the field, and he brought multiple championships to Philadelphia. Eagles fans couldn't ask for more.

RIP, Concrete Charlie.