Former NFL quarterback Craig Morton's cause of death has been disclosed following his passing at the age of 83 earlier this month. Morton died on May 9 in Greenbrae, California, due to 'acute respiratory failure due to severe sepsis due to urinary tract infection,' as reported by The California Post on Monday.
Hall of Fame College Career
Morton enjoyed a Hall of Fame college football career with the California Golden Bears before embarking on a nearly two-decade professional journey. He played for the Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants before concluding his career with the Denver Broncos.
Super Bowl Champion
Morton was a member of the Cowboys team that secured victory in Super Bowl VI. He died surrounded by loved ones in California, as announced by the Broncos. He is survived by his wife Kym, his sister, his children, and grandchildren.
Professional Highlights
Morton played football and baseball for Cal before being selected as the fifth overall pick in the 1965 NFL draft. He spent nearly a decade with the Cowboys before joining the Giants. In 1977, he was traded to the Broncos, where over six seasons he led the team to its first playoff appearance and a spot in Super Bowl XII. By the time he left the Broncos in 1982, Morton held numerous franchise records, including the most passing yards (11,895) and passing touchdowns (74).
Legacy and Honors
The quarterback was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1992, not long after entering the Broncos Ring of Fame and the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame. The Giants released a statement saying, 'We are saddened to hear of Craig’s passing. He was a great leader and teammate. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.'
