The Jets sent their condolences after the news of former quarterback Browning Nagle’s tragic death broke on Friday.
“We’re saddened to announce the passing of Browning Nagle,” the Jets posted to X.. “Sending our love to the Nagle family.”
Nagle, who died this week at 57 after a battle with colon cancer, was selected by the Jets in the second round of the 1991 NFL Draft and spent three seasons with the team before being released ahead of the 1994 season.
Ex-Jets QB Boomer Esiason, who was teammates with Nagle during the 1993 season, said that he was “so much fun to be around” in a heartfelt statement.
“Browning was a great guy,” Esiason said Friday, per the Jets website. “He had an infectious laugh and was so much fun to be around. We often competed against each other while also showing respect for one another.
“I will always remember the laughter and infectious spirit Browning had and how much he enjoyed out-driving me on the golf course. May he rest in peace, knowing he lived an impactful life.”
Prior to his NFL career, Nagle was a college standout with Louisville, throwing for 4,653 yards and 32 touchdowns across two seasons as a starter.
His defining moment with the Cardinals came during a 1991 Fiesta Bowl win over Alabama, where he racked up a program-high 451 passing yards and three touchdowns, earning him Offensive Player of the Game Honors.
“We are saddened by the passing of Browning Nagle, former Fiesta Bowl MVP quarterback and Louisville great,” Louisville football wrote on X. “His leadership on the field and passion for the game left a lasting mark on our program. Our thoughts are with his loved ones and teammates during this difficult time.”
Current Cardinals head coach Jeff Brohm — who served as Nagle’s backup during his playing days at Louisville — also penned a message to the late QB on social media.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with #7 Browning Nagle, his wife Michelle, and his entire family today,” he wrote. “A true Cardinal great! We will all miss him very much. Love you buddy!”
Longtime Kentucky sports columnist Mark Story also posted his condolences for Nagle on X.
“Very sad,” he wrote. “May Browning Nagle RIP.”
