Pro Football Hall of Famer Raymond Berry has died at the age of 93, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most precise and reliable receivers in NFL history.
Berry passed away peacefully at his home in Tennessee on May 25, according to a statement released by his family. He was surrounded by loved ones at the time of his passing.
A standout at SMU, Berry was selected in the 20th round of the 1954 NFL Draft, an unassuming start to a career that would become legendary. Over 13 seasons with the Baltimore Colts, he became a key target for quarterback Johnny Unitas, forming one of the most iconic duos in football history.
During his career, Berry recorded 631 receptions for 9,725 yards and 68 touchdowns, leading the league in receptions three times in an era when passing was far less dominant than today. He earned six Pro Bowl selections and helped guide the Colts to two championships, including the famous 1958 NFL title game against the New York Giants.
His excellence was later recognized with induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1973. Berry was also named to the NFL’s All-1950s Team and included in both the league’s 75th and 100th Anniversary teams, cementing his place among the sport’s all-time greats.
After retiring as a player, Berry transitioned into coaching, beginning with the Dallas Cowboys as a wide receivers coach in the late 1960s. He later worked with several teams before being named head coach of the New England Patriots in 1984.
As head coach, Berry led the Patriots to a 11–5 season and a Super Bowl appearance in 1985, where they ultimately fell to the dominant Chicago Bears. He remained in that role for six seasons before stepping away from coaching.
With his passing, the NFL has lost a true legend whose influence stretched from the field to the sidelines, shaping generations of players who followed.#newsafro_
