Tennessee Titans Legend Eddie George Passes Away at 51
— The world of professional football is mourning the loss of a true icon as Eddie George, legendary running back and former face of the Tennessee Titans, has died at the age of 51. The cause of death, confirmed by his family, was complications from a sudden cardiac event suffered at his home in Nashville late Tuesday evening.
Born Edward Nathan George Jr. on September 24, 1973, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, George rose to national fame in the 1990s as a dominant force on the football field. His storied journey from a promising high school athlete to Heisman Trophy winner at Ohio State University, and eventually to NFL superstardom, has inspired generations of athletes and fans alike.
Drafted 14th overall in the 1996 NFL Draft by the Houston Oilers, George remained a cornerstone of the franchise during its transition to the Tennessee Titans. Over nine seasons, he rushed for more than 10,000 yards and recorded 68 touchdowns. His punishing running style, relentless work ethic, and durability — having never missed a start in eight straight seasons — made him one of the most respected players of his era.
Perhaps his most iconic moment came during the Titans’ unforgettable 1999 season. George led the team to Super Bowl XXXIV, where they narrowly lost to the St. Louis Rams in a game remembered for “The Tackle,” a dramatic finish just one yard short of victory.
“Eddie embodied everything it meant to be a Titan — resilience, excellence, and leadership,” said Titans owner Amy Adams Strunk in a heartfelt statement. “His legacy will forever live on in our stadium, our hearts, and in the thousands of lives he touched both on and off the field.”
After retiring from professional football in 2004, George transitioned into a career marked by versatility and ambition. He earned an MBA from Northwestern University and ventured into acting, business, and coaching. Most recently, he had taken up the role of head coach at Bowling Green State University, where he was lauded for his mentorship and his commitment to player development.
George is survived by his wife, Tamara “Taj” Johnson-George — a singer, author, and former reality TV star — and their two sons, Jaire and Eriq. In a statement released by the family, Tamara said, “Eddie was the love of my life and the heart of our family. He lived with passion, loved deeply, and never stopped striving to make the world better.”
Tributes poured in from across the sports world. Former teammates, coaches, and fans shared memories on social media, hailing him not only as an elite athlete but as a role model whose impact extended far beyond the football field.
The Tennessee Titans have announced they will hold a public memorial service at Nissan Stadium next week, allowing fans and friends to honor a man whose life was as powerful as his runs between the tackles.
Eddie George: 1973 – 2025. Gone too soon,
but never forgotten.
