NFL World Pays Tribute To Groundbreaking QB Marlin Briscoe

The two-time Super Bowl champion and member of the 1972 Dolphins died Monday at the age of 76.

Trailblazing AFL and NFL player Marlin Briscoe died at the age of 76 Monday following a bout with pneumonia, according to a report from the Associated Press.

Briscoe, a star college quarterback who was originally drafted by the Broncos to play cornerback, made history as a rookie in 1968 by becoming the American Football League’s first Black starting QB; he started five games that season and finished as a runner-up in AFL Rookie of the Year voting. After transitioning to wide receiver the following year, Briscoe eventually became a Pro Bowler with the Bills in 1970, and a Super Bowl champion with the Dolphins during the undefeated ’72 season and again in ’74.

News of the 10-year pro’s passing sparked a wave of tributes across social media as fans, organizations and various sports figures offered their condolences:

We are saddened by the passing of legend Marlin Briscoe, who was the first Black starting quarterback in the AFL.

Marlin was a pioneer of the game and his legacy will live forever. pic.twitter.com/VGYQ2G6ayu

— NFL (@NFL) June 27, 2022

RIP to “The Magician.”

Marlin Briscoe was a pioneer who shattered barriers, making history as the first Black starting quarterback in the Super Bowl era.

Our deepest sympathies go out to Marlin’s family, friends and former teammates. pic.twitter.com/sOuygcaUO4

— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) June 27, 2022

Today is a sad day for me. One of my Idols growing up, Marlin Briscoe, passed away. He was one of a few Black QBs of the late 60s that gave me the inspiration that one day I could play QB as a professional. Marlin was the 1st Black QB to start in the AFL.

— Warren Moon (@WMoon1) June 28, 2022

Marlin Briscoe, who died at age 76, truly was “Marlin the Magician” during his 1968 stint as the Broncos’ QB, as this @nflthrowback video shows: pic.twitter.com/ZdFv28izpL

— Andrew Mason (@MaseDenver) June 27, 2022

Sad to hear of passing of former #Broncos QB Marlin Briscoe. He was franchise’s first black QB, and played well before being traded and switched to WR. The Broncos created a diversity coaching fellowship in Briscoe's honor ahead of the 2021 season. RIP. #Denver7 pic.twitter.com/b9hHdmFj5U

— Troy Renck (@TroyRenck) June 27, 2022

We honor the life and legacy of Marlin Briscoe, one of our game's true pioneers whose courage as the first Black starting quarterback in the Super Bowl era paved the way for so many of our union's player members. Our condolences go out to his family and loved ones #RIPTheMagician pic.twitter.com/AC1xat93Ez

— NFLPA Former Players (@NFLPAFmrPlayers) June 27, 2022

RIP Marlin Briscoe. What a legacy. The first black starting QB of the Super Bowl era. Great stat from @dandalyonsports: Only rookie QB to throw 3 TDs in 3+ games (‘68) until Marino (‘83). Won 2 Super Bowls with Dolphins at WR. A true pioneer. pic.twitter.com/CsaOT8xrLk

— Damon Amendolara (@DamonAmendo) June 27, 2022

QB pioneer Marlin Briscoe passes: https://t.co/xVFWHFBrHn

— Pat Forde (@ByPatForde) June 27, 2022

I'm devastated to hear of Marlin Briscoe's death. He is an historic figure and was a great interview during my research for, 'Raise a Fist, Take a Knee.' He also helped connect me with John Carlos. I wonder if his death will receive the attention it deserves. I'm very, very sad.

— John Feinstein (@FeinsteinBooks_) June 27, 2022

Not only was Marlin Briscoe the first BFL Black QB in the SB Era. He was moved to WR after his rookie year, an NFL practice that has denied so many potential great Black QBs, almost incl. Lamar Jackson who Bill Polian wanted to move to WR. #RestInPower https://t.co/TALFoI4FEG

— #StopCopCity (@ChuckModi1) June 27, 2022

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