Hall of Famer Donovan dies
Hall of Fame defensive tackle Art Donovan, who was known as much for his personality as his play on the field, died on Sunday as a result of a respiratory illness, the Baltimore Sun reported.
He was 89.
Drafted by the original Baltimore Colts franchise in 1950, Donovan played for the New York Yanks in 1951 and the Dallas Texans in 1952, but spent the rest of his 12-year career with the Baltimore Colts.
He was named first-team All Pro four consecutive years from 1954 through 1957.
Donovan was named to the 1950s All-Decade Team, and helped the Colts to back-to-back titles in 1958 and 1959. His No. 70 jersey was retired by the Colts.
Donovan often joked about his weight, and he provided numerous anecdotes of his playing days in his autobiography titled "Fatso."
Baltimore Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti issued a statement on Donovan's passing. It read: "We lost a friend, one of the finest men and one of the greatest characters we were fortunate to meet in this community and in this business.
"Baltimore is now without one of its best and someone who was a foundation for the tremendous popularity of football in our area. The world is not as bright tonight because we lost someone who could make us all smile."
Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay also issued a statement.
"On a weekend when the NFL welcomed more players into the Hall of Fame, we lost one of its most significant enshrinees, Art Donovan," Irsay's statement read. "Art was the first Colts player to be inducted into the Hall, and his roots date back to the very start of the franchise. Art was a battle-tested veteran who stood among the giants in helping lead the Colts to their first two world championships.
"While many later knew Art as a colorful ambassador to the sport because of his personality, those who played alongside and against him attest to his grit and greatness. Art is a beloved figure to many and is the only player to wear number 70 in Colts history. His number is retired among Colts greats. Art truly is an unforgettable figure in our sport, and we extend our sympathies to his family."
