Steve Sabol dies: The NFL world reacts

Half of the father-son team that revolutionized sports broadcasting, NFL Films President Steve Sabol, died Tuesday of brain cancer. If you aren’t a fan of the NFL, you may not realize what an impact Sabol had, not only on football, but on all sports, with his innovative ideas on showing highlights of games.

But fans of the NFL, and people inside the sport, know what a great loss this was. A sampling of reactions:

Terrell Owens (via Twitter): RIP Steve Sabol. I was fortunate 2 work w/Steve during my tenure w/the SF 49ers. Thanks 4 the memories then & now & those 2 come...

Jamal Anderson (via Twitter): R.I.P. Steve Sabol. The game wouldn’t be the same without your vision, hard work, and love. From my childhood, to my Super Bowl, Thank you!

Barry Sanders (via Twitter): I am greatly saddened to learn of the passing of Steve Sabol. I would like to send my most heartfelt condolences to the Sabol family.

Pete Carroll (via Twitter): Sad to hear about the passing of Steve Sabol, the president and co-founder of NFL Films. Sending condolences to his family and friends.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell: “Steve Sabol was the creative genius behind the remarkable work of NFL Films. Steve’s passion for football was matched by his incredible talent and energy. Steve’s legacy will be part of the NFL forever. He was a major contributor to the success of the NFL, a man who changed the way we look at football and sports, and a great friend.”

NFL Players Assn. executive director DeMaurice Smith: “Steve Sabol leaves a lasting impact on the National Football League that will be felt for a long time to come. His vision and innovation helped make him a pioneer the likes of which the NFL has never seen before and won’t see again.”

Pittsburgh Steelers President Art Rooney II: “The impact that Steve Sabol and his father, Ed, have had on the NFL in creating and growing NFL Films will continue to be enjoyed for years to come by NFL fans everywhere. He was a genius in his work.”

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