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Paul Tagliabue
1940 - 2025
Paul Tagliabue
1940 - 2025
Obituary
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BORN
1940
DIED
2025
Paul Tagliabue Obituary
Born November 24, 1940, in Jersey City, New Jersey, Tagliabue was a standout student-athlete at Georgetown University. He the Hoyas basketball team, served as class president, and was a Rhodes Scholarship finalist before earning his law degree from New York University. He began his career at Covington & Burling, then represented the NFL as league counsel for years before owners elected him commissioner in 1989.
Tagliabue guided pro football through an era of sweeping growth. During his tenure, the NFL expanded from 28 to 32 teams, adding the Carolina Panthers and Jacksonville Jaguars in 1995, restoring the Cleveland Browns in 1999, and welcoming the Houston Texans in 2002. He also presided over a building boom in modern stadiums and negotiated record television contracts.
Tagliabue made pivotal decisions in national crises. He postponed the league's schedule after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, and he championed the New Orleans Saints' return to the city following Hurricane Katrina.
He strengthened league policies as well, including a widely noted substance-abuse program and diversity initiatives that evolved alongside what became known as the Rooney Rule. His record also drew scrutiny for the league's approach to concussions, an area he later acknowledged needed better data and clearer standards.
Under Tagliabue, the league laid groundwork for its international ambitions and modern media presence, including steps toward the NFL's owned media platforms. He was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020 for contributions that shaped football's business and competitive landscape.
Tagliabue is survived by his wife, Chandler, as well as their son, Drew, and daughter, Emily. Tributes from across the league praised his principled leadership and lasting influence.
By Legacy News Staff
(Image: AP Photo/Marty Lederhandler, File)
6 Entries
walter Stark
Earlier today
Paul and I were classmates at Georgetown and served together on the Student Council when he was President of the 'Yard'. He was a good friend, and I enjoyed following his career. He served Georgetown Univ.
in many ways and will always be remembered for these efforts.
May he rest in peace and will be in my prayers.
My deepest sympathy,
Walter Stark
Tom Condon
Yesterday
In Remembrance of the Commissioner: we, Gene Upshaw and myself, were often his adversaries, or rather our positions were adverse to one another´s but we all labored in concert for the betterment of the NFL and the NFL Player. It was an honor to undertake these "battles:" never a more worthy opponent, never a more auspicious legacy.
Larry Tidwell
November 12, 2025
My condolences to your family. Paul will be missed by many people. May you turn to Almighty God for peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Chris
November 12, 2025
I offer my sincere condolences to the family of Paul Tagliabue. May the God of all comfort be with your family during this difficult time.
How you can show support
Ronald A Verni Sinibaldi
November 11, 2025
Condolences to family, friends and colleagues. A man of many accomplishments.
Rest in Peace
Mak
November 11, 2025
Condolences to the family and friends. May God comfort you during this difficult time.
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