“RIP my friend”: Christian McCaffrey’s Father Expresses Grief Over the Death of 56-Year-Old NFL Friend, Offers Prayers to His Family

In what is a shocking blow to the world, former Denver Broncos DE has passed away at 56. Harald Hasselbach, a two-time SB and a Grey Cup champion breathed his last on Thursday. He had been battling sickness for the past six months and died surrounded by his friends and family. 

Hasselbach was one of the best players during his time with the Broncos helping the team secure two straight national championship titles. According to reports from his family, he received a lot of support from teammates, coaches, and family who’ve flown in from across the world. The news of his death has saddened many, including his former teammate Ed McCaffrey.

Harald Hasselbach dies from cancer at 56

The world of football mourns as former Denver Broncos star Harald Hasselbach breathed his last at the age of 56. Ed McCaffrey, his former teammate, posted on his Twitter about the sad demise of his friend, praying for the retired DE’s kids, saying, “Praying for his incredible wife Aundrea & their four amazing children, Ashlee, Terran, Aven and Kian. RIP my friend! 🙏“. 

Ed McCaffrey also feels for his wife and four kids and offers support to them through prayers in this hard time. According to a statement by his family, Harald Hasselbach had a type of cancer called metastatic mucinous adenocarcinoma. They had received news of the illness only 6 months ago, but the cancer was inoperable, and he passed away ‘free of pain’. In their statement on ESPN, the family showed their gratitude and appreciation for the “overwhelming amount of support over the last week.”

Harald Hasselbach’s mark on football

Before he was drafted to the NFL, Harald Hasselbach played at Washington during his college life. He spent four years with the Calgary Stampeders in the Canadian Football League ultimately winning the Grey Cup and becoming a CFL all-star. 

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Harald Hasselbach joined the Broncos in 1994 and played for six seasons. He was one of the most prominent players who helped his team secure two consecutive Super Bowl wins against the Green Bay Packers (1998) and Atlanta Falcons (1999). With the Broncos, Harald Hasselbach played a total of 131 games. He finished with 154 tackles (119 solo), 17.5 sacks, and four forced fumbles and recoveries. It was at this time, both Ed and Harald were together, as they won the Vince Lombardi Trophy.

It’s a loss for the world as the BC Sports Hall of Famer is laid to rest. It’s every fan’s prayer for the soul of the late NFL star to rest in peace and for the bereaved family to find solace soon. The legacy of Harald Hasselbach will live on in the memories of all his fans.  

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