Pro Football Hall of Fame cornerback Herb Adderley, who played for the Packers from 1961-69, passed away Friday, after being recently hospitalized. Adderley was 81.
"The Green Bay Packers Family was saddened today to hear of Herb Adderley's passing," said Packers President/CEO Mark Murphy. "Herb was one of the greatest defensive backs to ever play the game. Few players can match his statistics with 48 interceptions and seven pick-sixes. He was a tremendous all-around athlete, as evidenced by the fact that he was All-City in Philadelphia in football, basketball and baseball, played halfback and defensive back at Michigan State and was an outstanding kick returner in the NFL. He was instrumental in the great success of the Lombardi teams and was the only player to play in four of the first six Super Bowls, and was a key member of six NFL championship teams.
"We extend our deepest condolences to Herb's family and friends."
At 6 feet and 205 pounds, Herb Adderley was not only the prototypical cornerback of his day, but of all time. He had it all: speed, size, toughness, awareness and big-play ability. In his pro career, during which he also played for the Dallas Cowboys from 1970-72, Adderley intercepted 48 passes, including 39 with the Packers, seven of which were returned for touchdowns.
Named to NFL's 1960s All-Decade Team, Adderley was also named Associated Press All-Pro five times and was a five-time Pro Bowl selection while with the Packers. He played on six NFL championship teams, including five in Green Bay, and played in four of the first six Super Bowls, including two with Dallas. He led the Packers in kickoff returns each season from 1961-64 and averaged 25.7 yards over his career.
Adderley was born June 8, 1939, in Philadelphia.
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