The sports figures we lost in 2024

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Frank Ryan

Frank Ryan
Photo: Getty Images

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Ken Bowman – Jan. 2 (death announced on this date)

Ken Bowman – Jan. 2 (death announced on this date)

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Photo: Getty Images

Former Green Bay Packer Ken Bowman died in either December 2023, or January 2024. The offensive lineman who played under legendary coach Vince Lombardi was 81.

Bowman was a three-time NFL champion, and on the Packers’ Super Bowl I and II-winning squads. A member of the team’s Hall of Fame, he’s best remembered for his block during the Ice Bowl, which led to a game-winning TD by Bart Starr.

During his playing days, Bowman earned a J.D. from the University of Wisconsin Law School. He spent his entire NFL career with Green Bay before a single season with the Hawaiians in the since-shuttered World Football League.

Frank Ryan – Jan. 1

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Photo: Getty Images

Former NFL QB Frank Ryan died Monday in a Connecticut nursing home, the Cleveland Browns announced.

Ryan, the last quarterback to guide the Browns to a title, was 87.

Frank Ryan Jr. told Cleveland.com that his dad was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.

A three-time Pro Bowler, Ryan led the league in touchdown passes in 1964, en route to a championship. He threw three touchdowns in an upset of Johnny Unitas and the Colts.

Ryan passed for 16042 yards, and 149 TDs during his 13-year career. He was drafted by the Rams, and also played for Washington.

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