FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – The New England Patriots express deep sorrow over the passing of former tight end Russ Francis, who left us on Sunday, October 1, at the age of 70.
In a statement, Patriots Chairman and CEO Robert Kraft conveyed heartfelt condolences, saying, “On behalf of the entire New England Patriots organization, we extend our sincerest sympathies to the family of Russ Francis, who tragically passed away yesterday. Russ was a beloved figure throughout his playing career—a dynamic force on the field and an even larger personality off it. He lived life without boundaries, constantly pushing limits. Our thoughts go out to Russ’s family, friends, teammates, and the countless Patriots fans grieving his loss.”
Francis had an illustrious 13-season NFL career, playing for the New England Patriots from 1975 to 1980 and 1987 to 1988, as well as the San Francisco 49ers from 1982 to 1987. He originally joined the Patriots as a first-round draft pick from the University of Oregon in the 1975 NFL Draft. The accomplished tight end garnered numerous accolades, being a two-time All-Pro (1976, 1978) and a three-time Pro Bowl player (1977, 1978, 1979). He earned a well-deserved place on the Patriots all-decade team of the 1970s and was a member of the Patriots 35th Anniversary Team.
Russ Francis concluded his remarkable career with 393 receptions for 5,262 yards and 40 touchdowns. At the time of his retirement in 1988, he held impressive rankings among tight ends, securing the 11th position in receiving yards, 12th in receptions, and tied for 13th in touchdown receptions. Notably, his Patriots career statistics placed him sixth in receptions (207), fifth in receiving yards (3,157), and fourth in touchdown receptions (28). The legacy of his 28 touchdown receptions still stands at 11th in franchise history.
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In 1982, Francis was traded to the San Francisco 49ers by the New England Patriots, leading to the selection of Pro Football Hall of Famer Andre Tippett with the acquired draft pick. He played a pivotal role in the 49ers’ triumphant Super Bowl victory over the Miami Dolphins in 1984. Russ Francis returned to New England in 1987, concluding his remarkable career as a member of the Patriots after the 1988 season.
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