Former Baltimore Colts defensive tackle Art Donovan has died in hospital aged 89.
Donovan enjoyed a stellar 11-year career, most notably with the Colts, whom he helped to two consecutive NFL championships in 1958 and 1959.
The popular lineman also had brief stints with the New York Yanks and Dallas Texans in the early 50s, but he will be most remembered for his time in Baltimore.
"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," said Baltimore Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti.
"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."
Donovan was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1968 and had his number 70 jersey retired by the Baltimore Colts, who have since relocated to Indianapolis.
Barney Corkhill
