Jack Squirek was a linebacker with such NFL teams as the Los Angeles Raiders, known for a key play in Super Bowl XVIII.
- Died: January 5, 2024 (Who else died on January 5?)
- Details of death: Died after an illness at the age of 64.
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Jack Squirek’s legacy
Squirek played college football at the University of Illinois before being drafted by the Raiders in the second round of the 1982 NFL draft. His most memorable moment with the Raiders came in Super Bowl XVIII in 1984. As Washington Redskins quarterback Joe Thiesmann passed the ball to running back Joe Washington, Squirek shocked players and spectators with a surprise interception. He turned it into a touchdown, helping secure the Raiders’ 38-9 victory. Squirek’s photo was featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated in the wake of the game, and he was briefly NFL royalty.
Squirek played four seasons for the Raiders, then played a single season for the Miami Dolphins in 1986 before the end of his professional football career. In later years, he ran an office cleaning service in the Cleveland area.
Notable quote
“I never thought back then that people would still remember me. They don’t recognize me by face, but my name rings a bell with some folks, and probably 20-30 times a year someone says something. It’s always nice.” —from a 2011 interview for Sports Illustrated
Tributes to Jack Squirek
Full obituary: Las Vegas Review-Journal
