“Ernie Accorsi was one of the most respected football minds in NFL history and a dear friend whose wisdom and perspective I valued tremendously. Throughout his remarkable career, he shaped championship-caliber clubs and earned the admiration of everyone who worked with him.

By any measure, Ernie Accorsi was a peerless executive in his years with the Colts, Browns and Giants. Had his time in the front offices of three iconic franchises been the only mark he left, his passing on Sept.

This one hurts. This one stings. Ernie Accorsi was a great many things in a full, vibrant life that spanned 84 years before that enormous heart of his was stilled at last Saturday night. He was a sports fan.