Friday was a sad day for the Washington Commanders community, as Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback and longtime team commentator Christian "Sonny" Jurgensen III passed away at the age of 91.
Jurgensen was a five-time Pro Bowler, two-time second-team All-Pro, five-time league leader in passing yards (three in Washington), and two-time league leader in passing touchdowns (once in D.C.).
He is a member of the Commanders' Ring of Fame, and his No. 9 jersey was retired by the organization in 2022. To this day, he is the team's only quarterback in franchise history to throw for 30 touchdowns in a season, a feat he achieved in 1967.
Commanders owner Josh Harris delivers touching tribute to the great Sonny Jurgensen
After his playing days were over, Jurgensen became a broadcaster, covering Washington on the radio until 2008. His presence will be fondly remembered by all, including the team's majority owner, Josh Harris.
Harris, who grew up in Chevy Chase, Maryland, and was a fan of the franchise as a child while Jurgensen was the team's quarterback, offered his condolences via the team's website. It's a genuine tribute that should resonate with every Commanders fan.
"For me, Sonny was the embodiment of what it means to don the Burgundy and Gold: tough, smart, and endlessly devoted to this franchise and its fans. He was a giant of the game and a beloved part of our team's identity. Our hearts and prayers are with Sonny's family, friends, and everyone who loved him."Josh Harris via Commanders.com
Jurgensen is widely considered the best Washington quarterback of at least the Super Bowl era, and perhaps its best player across the board aside from running back John Riggins, do-it-all legend Sammy Baugh, or cornerback Darrell Green. He was ahead of his time, and his skills would have translated to any NFL era.
He ranks second all-time in franchise passing yards behind Joe Theismann and passing touchdowns behind Baugh, while compiling a career record of 52-51-5 over the course of his 11 seasons in Washington. Even though the team didn't have the same success it achieved in the years before or shortly after him, Jurgensen was able to establish himself as an iconic figure.
As Harris says, he was endlessly devoted to the franchise and a beloved part of its identity. Washington offered him that same loyalty throughout his career, and for many years after.
He can be considered a throwback to a time when NFL teams valued the human element of building their brand through player continuity, rather than chasing trophies at all costs. Jurgensen is also considered one of the best, and easily among the most underrated, pure passers in league history.
Sonny will be missed.