Former Jets quarterback Browning Nagle dies from colon cancer at 57
Jets quarterback Browning Nagle looks to pass the ball during a game against the Los Angeles Rams at Anaheim Stadium in Anaheim, California, on Sep. 27, 1992. Credit: Getty Images/Mike Powell
Former Jets quarterback Browning Nagle died this week after a battle with colon cancer. He was 57.
Nagle was a Jets’ second-round pick in 1991 after a standout career at the University of Louisville that included a record-setting performance in the Fiesta Bowl. Louisville released a statement on Friday, announcing Nagle’s death.
“We are saddened by the passing of Browning Nagle, former Fiesta Bowl MVP quarterback and Louisville great,” the statement read. “His leadership on the field and passion for the game left a lasting mark on our program. Our thoughts are with his loved ones and teammates during this difficult time.”
Born in Philadelphia, Nagle went to high school in Florida and attended college at West Virginia University before transferring to Louisville.
Nagle played three seasons for the Cardinals. He led them to a 10-1-1 record in 1990. Nagle was named MVP of the Fiesta Bowl after throwing for a game-record 451 yards and three touchdowns in a lopsided win over Alabama. The record stood until Sayville’s Jack Coan threw for 509 yards in 2022 for Notre Dame.
The Jets drafted Nagle with the No. 34 pick in 1991, one selection after future Jets quarterback Brett Favre.
Nagle played three seasons with the Jets. He appeared in 18 games, including 13 starts in 1992, and threw for 2,361 yards, seven touchdowns and 17 interceptions in his Jets career. Nagle passed for a career-high 366 yards and two touchdowns in his first NFL start in 1992.
He spent the 1994 season with the Colts, playing in just one game. He was with the Falcons the next two years and threw one touchdown pass over five games.
Nagle resurfaced in football in 1999 in the Arena League. He played one season for the Orlando Predators and one for the Buffalo Destroyers.
When Nagle’s football career ended, he returned to Louisville and worked in medical sales.
His wife, Michelle, posted an emotional goodbye on Instagram on Friday.
“My heart is broken as I say goodbye to the love of my life,” her post read. “You were my everything, and I will carry you with me always. I miss you so much already, but knowing you are with our Lord & Savior gives me peace & comfort. I Love You, Browning Kenneth Nagle, for All Eternity.”
Al Iannazzone covers the Jets for Newsday after spending nearly two decades on the NBA beat with Knicks and Nets.
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