Former Crimson Tide quarterback Kenny Stabler, who later led the Oakland Raiders in the NFL, is dead. Stabler’s ex-wife, the University of Alabama, and the foundation that bears his name all confirm that the former football star died from cancer at the age of sixty nine.
"I am very sad to hear of the death of Ken Stabler. While there have been many outstanding players in our great football history at Alabama," says UA Athletic Director Bill Battle. "I think it´s safe to say that few – if any – connected with our fans in the way that Kenny did. He´s one of the few quarterbacks to win a national title in college and a Super Bowl in the pros in a career that ranks among the best of anyone to play the game. He was an Alabama man through and through. The thoughts and prayers of all of us in the Alabama Family are with Kenny, his family, and all who knew and loved him.¨
Stabler’s death caused some confusion with a number of unconfirmed accounts starting around 3:30 pm CST. The story was later confirmed by a Mobile television station, and the Los Angeles Times.
Stabler played for the Crimson Tide under head coach Paul “Bear” Bryant. He was later a second round draft pick by the Oakland Raiders in 1968. He led the team to its first Super Bowl victory in 1977.
