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Former Philadelphia Eagles general manager Tom Heckert passed away at the age of 51 on Sunday evening, according to an official announcement. Heckert had been dealing with health issues.
The Eagles originally hired Heckert as a director of pro personnel back in 2001. He worked his way up to the ranks to become general manager in 2006. He served in that role until he was replaced by current Eagles executive vice president of football operations Howie Roseman in 2010.
The Eagles went 92-51-1 during Heckert’s tenure. The team made the playoffs in seven out of his nine seasons in Philadelphia. The Eagles made it to four NFC Championship Games and had one Super Bowl appearance during that span.
After leaving the Eagles in 2010, Heckert served as general manager of the Cleveland Browns for two years before ending up with the Denver Broncos’ front office in 2013. The Broncos won the Super Bowl in 2015 while Heckert was serving as a director of pro personnel.
It’s clear that Heckert had a good deal of success during his tenure in the NFL. It also seems like a number of former Eagles players remember him fondly.
Shocked and sadden at the sudden passing of former Birds GM Tom Heckert. He gave me a chance when others didn't. Rest easy Tom. #FlyEaglesFly
— Jamaal Jackson (@CenterStage67) August 6, 2018
for the Heckert Family https://t.co/i90RcHYoA4
— Ike Reese (@Ike58Reese) August 6, 2018
I’m extremely sorry to hear about this. https://t.co/mDu2lrttgJ
— Tra Thomas (@72TraThomas) August 6, 2018
RIP! Tom was a good man!
— Brian Westbrook (@36westbrook) August 6, 2018
Damn...RIP Tom you will be missed RT @RoobNBCS: So sad to hear about the passing of Tom Heckert, who was with the Eagles from 2001-2010 and was GM during some great years.
— Jeremy Maclin (@jmac___19) August 6, 2018
A terrific personnel guy, great family man and super nice guy.
He was only 51. He'll be missed.
Rest in peace, Tom Heckert.
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UPDATE: Eagles release official statements.
Jeffrey Lurie: “We are saddened to learn of Tom Heckert’s passing. Tom gave everything he had to this organization for nine seasons and played a major role in the construction and success of our team during that time. In addition to being a talented evaluator and respected voice, he was a mentor and friend to so many within our organization and around the league. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and worked with him and our hearts go out to his family during this difficult time.”
Howie Roseman: “Tom came to Philly in 2001 and made an instant impact on and off the field. He hired great people and his legacy is seen throughout the league in high-ranking front office positions and how many people today are talking about him and telling Heckert stories. He took the time to help all of us get better and learn more about how to evaluate and build teams. His record as a GM was outstanding. When he worked here everyone wanted to be around him and listen to his stories about his time in the league and his experiences around the game. He was one of the first people to congratulate us all when we won the Super Bowl. Thoughts and prayers with his family, including his kids.”