PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – NFL Films president Steve Sabol died today at the age of 69, after an 18-month battle with brain cancer, the NFL reported today.

Sabol, born in Philadelphia, was one of the founding members of NFL films, and took over as president in 1985, replacing his father Ed. In March 2011, Sabol learned he had an inoperable brain tumor. To say Sabol was well liked within the NFL and media communities, would be an understatement.

“Steve was the creative genius behind NFL Films’ remarkable work,” NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said Tuesday in an email to NFL personnel, according to NFL.com. “Steve’s passion for football was matched only by his talent and energy. He was a major contributor to the success of the NFL, a man who changed the way we looked at football and sports, and a great friend. His legacy is assured.

“Steve was an incredible visionary. He spent 50 years at the NFL and changed the way we see pro football. So when you’re watching the games this week, it’s worth remembering just how much Steve contributed to the way we think, see, and love our game.”

For the entire article remembering Sabol from NFL.com, go to THIS LINK.