Former Los Angeles Raiders linebacker Jack Squirek has died.
The Raiders issued a statement on Saturday evening sharing the news about Squirek. The team referenced the play for which Squirek was most known, which took place during the Raiders’ 38-9 win over the Washington Redskins in Super Bowl XVIII.
Squirek intercepted a pass from quarterback Joe Theismann deep in Washington territory and returned it for a touchdown to give the Raiders a 21-3 lead heading into halftime.
The Raiders Family is mourning the loss of Jack Squirek. pic.twitter.com/DRbykjjHR2
— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) January 6, 2024
“The Raiders Family is mourning the loss of Jack Squirek, who passed away on Friday,” the statement read. “Squirek played four years for the Raiders and was a central figure in one of pro football’s all-time great plays. … The thoughts and deepest condolences of the Raider Nation are with the Squirek family at this time.”
No cause of death was provided.
Squirek was drafted by the Raiders in the second round out of Illinois in 1982. He played for L.A. for four seasons before spending a year with the Miami Dolphins in 1986.
Squirek played in 55 games during his NFL career. He recorded three sacks, an interception and two fumble recoveries.
