Hall of Fame wide receiver Raymond Berry passed away at 93 years old on Monday, according to his family.
Berry was a part of the Baltimore Colts for his entire career after being drafted in the 20th round by the team. During his 13-year career, Berry was a focal point of the Colts’ 1958 and 1959 championship seasons.
The 1958 championship was deemed “The Greatest Game Ever Played” by many. In the nail-biting 23-17 overtime win over the New York Giants, Berry caught 12 passes for a total of 178 yards and a touchdown.
Those 12 receptions set a championship record that stood for 55 years before being broken by the Denver Broncos’ Demaryius Thomas.
Berry was not known for his speed but was considered a trailblazer in route running. Before making the NFL, Berry was noted for having bad eyesight and was forced to wear a back brace to fix a misalignment in his spine.
Still Berry made it to the big stage by using his unstoppable work ethic and, by his own account, 88 moves that helped shake defenders. It took repetitive practice and preparation for his success.
Berry retired in 1967, ending with 631 catches for 9,275 yards and 68 touchdowns. In 1973, Berry was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Berry also served as head coach of the New England Patriots from 1984 to 1989.
In 1986, he led the Patriots to the Super Bowl for the first time in franchise history. However, New England was dominated, 46-10, by the Chicago Bears and their vaunted 46 defense.
On Monday morning, the Baltimore Ravens released a statement on X.
“Raymond Berry is a football icon. As one of the greatest wide receivers in league history, he routinely thrilled fans with his clutch playmaking, precise approach, and unmatched work ethic. His impact on Baltimore sports and the NFL will endure forever,” it read.
“We send our deepest condolences to Raymond’s family and friends- and to the countless fans who were inspired by his remarkable journey.