Former NFL player Mike Stensrud, who spent the majority of his 11-year career with the Houston Oilers, passed away unexpectedly last week at the age of 68 after suffering a heart attack. News of his death was confirmed by Iowa State University, where Stensrud was a standout player and was inducted into the Iowa State Athletics Hall of Fame in 2000. Stensrud played football at Iowa State alongside his brother Maynard before being drafted by the Oilers in the second round of the 1979 NFL Draft. He was a vital part of two Cyclone defenses that earned bowl bids in 1977 and 1978.
In a statement released by the Tennessee Titans, the organization expressed their condolences to the family and loved ones of Stensrud, who was a longtime Oiler. Stensrud played seven seasons in Houston before having one-year stints with the Minnesota Vikings, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Kansas City Chiefs, and Washington Redskins before retiring after the 1989 season. Over the course of his career, he recorded 29.5 sacks in 139 NFL games, leaving a lasting impact on the teams he played for and the fans who supported him. His sudden passing has left the football community mourning the loss of a great player and even better person.
Stensrud’s death was attributed to a heart attack that occurred at his home in Lake Mills, Iowa. His passing has left a void in the football world as his contributions on and off the field were cherished by those who knew him. The impact he had on his alma mater, Iowa State University, and the various NFL teams he played for is evident in the outpouring of support and condolences from fans, colleagues, and former teammates. Stensrud’s legacy as a talented and dedicated athlete will be remembered for years to come.
The news of Stensrud’s passing comes as a shock to many who knew him personally and professionally. His sudden death serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of treasuring the moments we have with loved ones. Stensrud’s memory will live on through his impressive football career, his impact on the teams he played for, and the lives he touched along the way. The football community is united in mourning the loss of a player who left a lasting impression on those who had the privilege of knowing him.
As former teammates, coaches, fans, and colleagues reflect on Stensrud’s life and career, they remember him as a talented and hardworking player who gave his all on the field. His accomplishments in college and the NFL showcase his dedication to the game and his ability to make a difference in the teams he played for. Stensrud’s impact on Iowa State football and the various professional teams he played for will not be forgotten, as his legacy continues to inspire future generations of athletes to strive for greatness both on and off the field.
In the wake of Stensrud’s passing, the football community has come together to honor his memory and celebrate his accomplishments. From his days at Iowa State to his time in the NFL, Stensrud made a lasting impact on the teams and individuals he encountered throughout his career. The outpouring of support and condolences from fans, colleagues, and loved ones is a testament to the positive influence he had on those around him. As the football world mourns the loss of a beloved player and person, Stensrud’s legacy will continue to shine bright as a reminder of the mark he left on the game he loved.
