Former Chargers and Hall of Fame DE Fred Dean dies at 68

Pro Football Hall of Famer, and former Chargers and 49ers defensive end, Fred Dean passed away late Wednesday night. He was 68.

Here is a statement from Pro Football Hall of Fame and CEO David Baker on Dean’s passing:

“The entire Pro Football Hall of Fame family mourns the passing of Fred Dean. He exemplified many of the values learned from this great game — commitment, integrity, courage — over the course of his life. Our thoughts and prayers are with Fred’s wife, Pam, and their entire family. We will forever keep his legacy alive to serve as inspiration for future generations.”

Dean entered the NFL as a second-round draft pick for the San Diego Chargers in 1975 following a standout career as a linebacker for Louisiana Tech University where he was a four-time All-Southland Conference selection. He helped the Bulldogs to the 1973 Division II national championship and four consecutive conference titles. He finished his college career with 392 tackles.

In his first season with the Chargers, Dean was immediately moved to defensive end where he found instant success as a pass rusher. Dean recorded 15.5 sacks in 1978 before helping the Bolts win the AFC West title the following year while being named to his first Pro Bowl and the All-AFC Team. He would go on to make the Pro Bowls in 1980, 1981, and 1983, with that ‘81 season being split between the Chargers and Niners after he was traded for a second-round pick. He was named a First-Team All-Pro in consecutive years from 1980-81.

Dean won two Super Bowls with San Francisco, including in that 1981 season where was awarded the NFC’s Defensive Player of the Year honor.

After being inducted into Hall of Fame for both the Chargers and 49ers, Dean was eventually enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame on August 2, 2008.