Jack Tatum, a former Oakland Raiders defensive back, has died. He was 61.

The news was confirmed to WBNS-TV in Ohio by his ex-Ohio State teammate John Hicks.

The Raiders released a statement about Tatum’s death. It said, “We are deeply saddened by the news of Jack Tatum’s passing. Jack was a true Raider champion and a true Raider warrior.”

Jim Tressel, coach of Ohio State, also expressed his condolences. He said, “We have lost one of our greatest Buckeyes. When you think of Ohio State defense, the first name that comes to mind is Jack Tatum. His loss touches every era of Ohio State players and fans.”

Tatum, also known as the “The Assassin” because of his violent tackles, played with the Raiders from 1971 to 1979. In their game against the New England Patriots in 1978, Tatum tackled wide receiver Darryl Stingley, who became paralyzed, spent the rest of his life in a wheelchair, and passed away in 2007.

Tatum retired from the NFL in 1980. He was diagnosed with diabetes shortly after that and underwent amputation of his right leg and the toes of his left foot. His cause of death was reportedly heart attack.

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