Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Sonny Jurgensen, whose legendary career defined two NFL franchises, died Friday at the age of 91. The Washington Commanders announced his passing in a statement released on behalf of his family.
Who was Sonny Jurgensen?
Sonny Jurgensen (1934–2026) was a Hall of Fame quarterback inducted in 1983, widely regarded as one of the greatest pure passers in NFL history. Over an 18-season career with the Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Redskins (now Commanders), he became a legendary figure known for his “golden arm.” He led the NFL in passing yards five times, threw 255 career touchdowns, and was a five-time Pro Bowl selection. Following his playing career, he spent 38 seasons as a color commentator for Washington’s radio broadcasts before retiring in 2018.
Sonny Jurgensen Net Worth
At the time of his passing, Sonny Jurgensen had an estimated net worth of approximately $2 million. This figure reflects earnings from his 18-season playing career during a lower-salary era in the NFL and his prolific near-40-year second career in sports broadcasting, where he earned a reported six-figure annual salary as a radio analyst.
Sonny Jurgensen Wife, Kids, Family
Jurgensen is survived by his wife of nearly six decades, Margo Hurt Jurgensen. He was previously married to Suzanne Long. He had four sons: Erik and Gunnar (with Margo) and Greg and Scott (from his first marriage). His family legacy includes six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. In their statement, his family called him the “deeply loving heart of our family.”
 Sonny Jurgensen’s Key NFL Career Highlights
Jurgensen was an elite statistical performer, leading the NFL in passing yards five times—a record at retirement—and finishing with 255 career touchdown passes. He began his career with the Philadelphia Eagles (1957–1963), leading the league in passing in 1961 and 1962 and capturing the 1960 NFL Championship. Following a trade, he spent 11 seasons with Washington (1964–1974), leading the league three more times and earning four of his five Pro Bowl honors. He entered the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1983.
How is the Football Community Responding?
The Washington Commanders organization stated Jurgensen was “one of the defining legends of Washington football” and “the embodiment of what it means to don the Burgundy and Gold.” His family’s statement remembered him for his “fearless spirit and intellect” on the field and his role as a loving patriarch off it.
