John Madden Tributes from NFL Legends

Younger generations were introduced to Madden through the “Madden NFL” video game franchise, which first debuted in 1988 as “John Madden Football” and is still among the most popular games.

John Randle, whose boisterous personality and Hall of Fame play, helped grow the game admired Madden’s multifaceted way of connecting people to football.

“In so many ways, John Madden introduced football to a whole new group of fans who had never played it or been associated with it because of his unique style on the air and through the video games,” Randle said. “There is a generation of football fans now who don’t know he was a great coach, but he broadened the appeal of the game. He was like going from black-and-white TV to color TV, that’s what he did for football.

“Personally, I was able to get to know him during events in Canton,” Randle continued. “I was at a table with him, Fred Biletnikoff, Franco Harris and Mean Joe Greene. The conversation turned to the Immaculate Reception, and suddenly it was like they were back in that game. As a young guy, I was just sitting there in awe, reliving a magical moment in NFL history.”

Each reunion with Madden was special to Randle.

“As a player, when you got to see the Madden bus pull up at your facility, you knew it was special. Then, when you get invited to come on it, you know you’re part of something unique, something so many people wish they could do. I look back at my All-Madden Team sweatshirts and jackets and think about how lucky I was to be able to meet him and be a part of those moments in history.”

Former Vikings quarterback Daunte Culpepper said he was “super honored” to be featured on the cover of “Madden NFL 2002.”

“John Madden is an icon in the football world,” Culpepper said. “His in-game commentary was second to none. He will be missed.”