Rams legend Roman Gabriel, who won NFL MVP in 1969, dies at 83

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Roman Gabriel, the NFL MVP in 1969, died Saturday at the age of 83.

Gabriel's son, Roman III, announced his father's death in a social media post, saying he "passed away peacefully" of natural causes at home.

"We mourn the loss of Rams legend and football pioneer, Roman Gabriel. We extend our condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time," the Rams said in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

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Roman Gabriel of the Los Angeles Rams looks to throw a pass against the Green Bay Packers during the 1967 NFL Championship Dec. 23, 1967, at Milwaukee County Stadium in Milwaukee.  (James Drake/Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)

Gabriel starred at North Carolina State, twice being named the ACC Player of the Year.

After becoming the first ACC quarterback to throw for 1,000 yards in back-to-back seasons, the Rams, in their first stint in Los Angeles, drafted him with the second pick of the NFL Draft. They selected Hall of Fame defensive tackle Merlin Olsen with the very next selection.

Gabriel spent his first 11 seasons with the Rams and remains the franchise's all-time leader in passing touchdowns with 154. His 22,223 yards are third most, behind Jim Everett and Marc Bulger.

Roman Gabriel of the Los Angeles Rams in action against the Dallas Cowboys Oct. 1, 1967, at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Texas. Gabriel played for the Rams from 1962-72.  (Focus on Sport/Getty Images)

He made three straight Pro Bowls from 1967 to 1969, but it was the ‘69 season when he separated himself from the league’s other QBs.

He threw an NFL-high 24 touchdowns and led the Rams to an 11-3 season, but they