Sonny Jurgensen Bio, Age, Height, Wife, Family, Career Stats, Net Worth & Legacy

Christian Adolph “Sonny” Jurgensen III passed away on February 6, 2026, at the age of 91, leaving behind one of the most storied legacies in NFL history. The Hall of Fame quarterback whose “golden arm” rewrote record books for both the Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Commanders (then Redskins) was celebrated as much for his football intelligence and fearless spirit as for his affable personality that made him a beloved figure in the nation’s capital for over half a century. From winning an NFL championship as a backup in 1960 to his 38-year career as a broadcaster, Jurgensen’s 55-year association with professional football represents a bridge between the sport’s leather-helmet past and its modern era.

Quick Facts

Early Life & Education

Christian Adolph Jurgensen III was born on August 23, 1934, in Wilmington, North Carolina, to Christian Adolph Jurgensen Jr. and Bessie Jurgensen. He grew up as an only child in a family that valued athletics and education. His father was a local sports figure who instilled in young Sonny a love for competition and physical excellence.

At New Hanover High School in Wilmington, Jurgensen emerged as a multi-sport star, excelling in football, basketball, and baseball. His athletic prowess attracted attention from college recruiters, but he chose to stay close to home for his higher education.

Jurgensen attended Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, where he became one of the most versatile players in Blue Devils history. Under coach William D. Murray, Jurgensen played defensive back, quarterback, and punter—demonstrating the football intelligence that would define his professional career. He earned first-team All-ACC honors twice and helped Duke win multiple conference titles, culminating in a victory over Nebraska in the 1955 Orange Bowl.

His college career showcased the strong arm and tactical mind that would eventually earn him NFL stardom, though he entered the professional ranks as a relatively unknown fourth-round prospect.

Career Journey

Philadelphia Eagles (1957–1963)

The Philadelphia Eagles selected Jurgensen in the fourth round (43rd overall) of the 1957 NFL Draft, viewing him initially as a developmental project behind veteran Norm Van Brocklin.

Early Years (1957–1960):
For his first four seasons, Jurgensen served primarily as Van Brocklin’s backup, seeing limited action. However, he earned a championship ring as a member of the 1960 Eagles team that defeated Vince Lombardi’s Green Bay Packers 17-13 in the NFL Championship Game—Philadelphia’s last title before their Super Bowl LII victory in 2018.

Starting Quarterback (1961–1963):
When Van Brocklin retired after the 1960 championship, Jurgensen finally got his opportunity. He seized it spectacularly:

• 1961: Set an NFL record with 3,723 passing yards and tied Johnny Unitas’ single-season record with 32 touchdown passes. Earned First-Team All-Pro honors and his first Pro Bowl selection.
• 1962: Led the NFL with 3,261 passing yards, but also threw 26 interceptions—still an Eagles franchise record.
• 1963: Passed for 1,413 yards and 11 touchdowns in nine games.

Despite his statistical brilliance, the Eagles struggled to win consistently, and Jurgensen’s high interception total concerned management. On April 1, 1964, Philadelphia traded him to Washington in a surprising quarterback swap that sent Norm Snead and Claude Crabb to the Eagles.

Washington Redskins/Commanders (1964–1974)

The trade to Washington proved to be the defining move of Jurgensen’s career. Over 11 seasons in the nation’s capital, he became the franchise’s most beloved player and established records that would stand for decades.

Peak Years (1964–1969):
Jurgensen immediately transformed Washington’s offense:

He led the NFL in passing yards in 1966, 1967, and 1969, and in touchdown passes in 1967. His 31 touchdowns in 1967 remain a Washington single-season franchise record. Vince Lombardi, who coached Washington in 1969, called Jurgensen “the best quarterback the NFL has ever seen.”

The Kilmer Rivalry & Super Bowl VII (1970–1974):
The early 1970s brought the NFL’s first true “quarterback controversy” as Jurgensen shared duties with Billy Kilmer. Fans divided into “I Love Sonny” and “I Love Billy” camps, though the two quarterbacks became lifelong best friends.

In 1972, both quarterbacks contributed to Washington’s first Super Bowl appearance in nearly three decades. Jurgensen started the NFC Championship Game victory over Dallas but was injured; Kilmer led the team in their Super Bowl VII loss to the undefeated Miami Dolphins.

Jurgensen retired after the 1974 season at age 40, having won his third NFL passing title that year despite splitting time with Kilmer. His 82.62 career passer rating remains the highest for any player in the “Dead Ball Era” (pre-1978 rule changes that opened up passing offenses).

Career Statistics:

Broadcasting Career (1974–2019)

Jurgensen transitioned seamlessly to broadcasting, beginning with CBS before joining Washington’s radio team in 1981. For 38 seasons, he formed a beloved trio with Hall of Fame linebacker Sam Huff and play-by-play announcer Frank Herzog on WMAL and later WTEM.

The trio “became like family for Redskins fans,” according to ESPN’s John Keim, providing the soundtrack to Washington’s glory years under Joe Gibbs in the 1980s and early 1990s. Jurgensen’s analysis was marked by the same football intelligence that made him a great player, combined with a warm, humorous delivery that endeared him to listeners.

He announced his retirement from broadcasting in August 2019, capping a 55-year association with the Washington franchise—18 as a player and 38 as a broadcaster.

Personal Life

Marriages & Family

Jurgensen was married twice:

Suzanne Stuart Long (1957–divorced):
Married on June 22, 1957, during his early NFL career. The couple had two sons before their marriage ended in divorce.

Margo Hurt (1967–2026):
Married on June 8, 1967, Margo was Jurgensen’s partner for nearly 58 years until his death. They had two sons together, and Margo was frequently seen at Washington games and events throughout his playing and broadcasting careers.

At the time of his death, Jurgensen was survived by Margo, four sons, six grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. His family described him as “the steady, humorous, and deeply loving heart of our family.”

Community & Character

Jurgensen was known throughout his life for his affable personality, quick wit, and accessibility to fans. Unlike many stars of his era, he embraced the Washington community, becoming a fixture in the city for over five decades. His golf game was legendary among teammates and media members, and he frequently participated in charity events and community functions.

Controversies

The Quarterback Controversy

The Jurgensen-Kilmer rivalry of the early 1970s, while producing no personal animosity between the players, divided the Washington fanbase and created tension within the organization. Coach George Allen’s tendency to alternate between the two quarterbacks frustrated both players and fans, though it ultimately produced a Super Bowl appearance.

High Interception Totals

Jurgensen’s aggressive passing style led to high interception numbers—189 for his career, including the notorious 26 in 1962. Critics pointed to these turnovers as evidence of recklessness, while supporters argued they were the cost of his high-risk, high-reward approach that also produced record-setting yardage and touchdown totals.

Post-Career Health

Like many players of his era, Jurgensen dealt with health issues in retirement related to his football career. However, he remained relatively active and mentally sharp into his late 80s, continuing to make occasional public appearances until shortly before his death.

Awards & Achievements

Playing Honors

• Pro Football Hall of Fame: Inducted 1983
• NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
• 5× Pro Bowl (1961, 1964, 1966, 1967, 1969)
• First-Team All-Pro (1961)
• Second-Team All-Pro (1967, 1969)
• NFL Passing Yards Leader: 5 times (1961, 1962, 1966, 1967, 1969)
• NFL Passing Touchdowns Leader: 2 times (1961, 1967)
• NFL Passer Rating Leader (1967)
• NFL Completion Percentage Leader (1970)

Franchise Records (Washington)

• Single-season passing touchdowns: 31 (1967)
• Career passing yards: 22,585 (2nd all-time at retirement)
• Career passing touchdowns: 179 (2nd all-time at retirement)
• Only player to wear No. 9 in a Washington game (retired 2023)

Hall of Fame Memberships

• Pro Football Hall of Fame (1983)
• Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame
• Washington Commanders Ring of Fame
• North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame

Broadcasting Honors

• Washington area sports broadcasting legend
• 38 consecutive seasons as analyst (1981–2019)

Physical Statistics

Jurgensen was not the prototypical modern quarterback in terms of size or athleticism, but his arm strength, quick release, and football intelligence made him one of the most effective passers of his era.

Quotes

“It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our husband, father, and grandfather, Sonny Jurgensen. We are enormously proud of his amazing life and accomplishments on the field, marked not only by a golden arm, but also a fearless spirit and intellect that earned him a place among the legends in Canton.” — Jurgensen family statement, February 6, 2026

“Sonny Jurgensen is, and always will be, one of the defining legends of Washington football. He was a giant of the game, and a beloved part of our team’s identity.” — Washington Commanders statement

“Jurgensen is a great quarterback. He hangs in there under adverse conditions. He may be the best the league has ever seen. He is the best I have seen.” — Vince Lombardi

“While he has taken his final snap, his legacy will remain an indelible part of the city he loved and the family he built.” — Jurgensen family

Favorites

Salary & Net Worth

At the time of his death in February 2026, Sonny Jurgensen’s estimated net worth was approximately $2 million, accumulated through his NFL playing career, 38-year broadcasting tenure, and various endorsements and appearances.

Career Earnings Context:

• Playing Era (1957–1974): NFL salaries were modest compared to modern standards; top quarterbacks earned approximately $50,000–$100,000 annually by the early 1970s
• Broadcasting Career (1974–2019): 38 years as a radio analyst provided steady income and financial stability
• Endorsements: Limited compared to modern athletes, but included local and regional partnerships

Financial Philosophy:
Jurgensen was known for living within his means and investing wisely, ensuring comfort for his family without the financial troubles that befell many athletes of his era.

Interesting Facts

1. Only #9: Remains the only player in Washington franchise history to wear No. 9 in a game; the number was retired in his honor in 2023
2. Championship Ring as Backup: Won 1960 NFL Championship with Eagles while serving as Norm Van Brocklin’s backup
3. Trade Anniversary: The April 1, 1964 trade to Washington was initially thought by some to be an April Fool’s joke
4. Record Longevity: His Eagles single-season touchdown record (32) stood for 56 years until Carson Wentz broke it in 2017
5. Broadcasting Longevity: 38 consecutive seasons as analyst is one of the longest tenures in NFL broadcasting history
6. Duke Multi-Sport: Played defensive back, quarterback, and punter in college
7. Southern Roots: Remained a proud North Carolinian despite spending his adult life in Philadelphia and Washington
8. Golf Enthusiast: Maintained a low handicap well into his 70s
9. Family Man: Married to Margo for nearly 58 years at the time of his death
10. 55-Year Association: Spent 55 consecutive years associated with the Washington franchise (1964–2019)

Did You Know?

• Jurgensen’s 82.62 career passer rating was the highest in NFL history at the time of his retirement
• He threw for 3,000+ yards five times in an era when seasons were 12–14 games and passing rules heavily favored defenses
• The Jurgensen-Kilmer quarterback controversy produced the first “I Love [Player]” bumper stickers in NFL history
• He was the last quarterback to lead the NFL in passing yards while playing for a losing team (1969 Redskins went 7-5-2)
• Jurgensen’s arm was so strong that he could throw 70-yard passes without apparent effort
• He was known for his ability to read defenses pre-snap, often calling audibles based on subtle defensive alignments

Social Media Links

• Official: No personal social media accounts (pre-dated social media era)
• Washington Commanders: commanders.com for official tributes and memorial information
• Pro Football Hall of Fame: profootballhof.com for Hall of Fame profile

Frequently Asked Questions

How old was Sonny Jurgensen when he died?
Sonny Jurgensen died on February 6, 2026, at the age of 91. He was born on August 23, 1934.

What teams did Sonny Jurgensen play for?
Jurgensen played for the Philadelphia Eagles (1957–1963) and the Washington Redskins/Commanders (1964–1974). He won an NFL championship with the Eagles in 1960.

Is Sonny Jurgensen in the Hall of Fame?
Yes, Sonny Jurgensen was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1983. He is also in the Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame and the Washington Commanders Ring of Fame.

What was Sonny Jurgensen’s cause of death?
The specific cause of death was not immediately disclosed in family or team statements. He passed away peacefully at age 91.

How many Super Bowls did Sonny Jurgensen win?
Jurgensen did not win a Super Bowl as a player. He was a backup on the 1960 Eagles NFL Championship team (pre-Super Bowl era) and lost Super Bowl VII with Washington in 1972.

What is Sonny Jurgensen’s net worth?
At the time of his death, Sonny Jurgensen’s estimated net worth was approximately $2 million.

Who is Sonny Jurgensen’s wife?
Sonny Jurgensen was married to Margo Hurt from June 8, 1967, until his death on February 6, 2026—nearly 58 years. He was previously married to Suzanne Stuart Long (1957–divorced).

What was Sonny Jurgensen’s jersey number?
Jurgensen wore No. 9 throughout his NFL career. The Washington Commanders retired the number in 2023, and he remains the only player in franchise history to wear it in a game.

Conclusion

Sonny Jurgensen’s death on February 6, 2026, marked the end of an era in Washington football and NFL history. From his record-setting arm to his 38-year broadcasting career, Jurgensen gave the Washington community 55 years of service, entertainment, and class. His “golden arm” produced statistics that stood for decades, while his warm personality made him a beloved figure long after his playing days ended.

Though he never won a Super Bowl as a starter, Jurgensen’s impact on the quarterback position and the Washington franchise is immeasurable. He bridged the gap between the NFL’s past and present, earning his place among the legends in Canton and in the hearts of football fans across generations. As the football world mourns his passing, his legacy as one of the greatest pure passers in NFL history—and one of its finest gentlemen—remains secure.

If you enjoyed this comprehensive tribute to a football legend, please share it with fellow NFL fans and consider raising a glass in Sonny’s memory, as his family requested: “Share a story and a smile, as we celebrate the extraordinary life of a man who was, to us, the greatest of all time.”

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