Former Jets QB Browning Nagle Dies at 57

Nagle, known for his standout Fiesta Bowl performance, played in the NFL from 1991-1994.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:18pm

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An abstract, energetic painting featuring bold brushstrokes of neon colors that evoke the dynamic movement and raw athleticism of a quarterback in action, with the player's features and uniform dissolving into a vibrant, expressionist composition.The vibrant, larger-than-life playing style of former Jets quarterback Browning Nagle is captured in this expressionist painting, honoring his legacy and passion for the game.Largo Today

Browning Nagle, a former quarterback for the New York Jets who was best known for his standout performance in the 1991 Fiesta Bowl while playing for the University of Louisville, has died at the age of 57 after a battle with colon cancer.

Why it matters

Nagle was a second-round draft pick by the Jets in 1991 and was expected to be their long-term starting quarterback, but his NFL career was ultimately short-lived. His passing is a loss for the Jets and Louisville football programs, which both saw him as a promising young talent.

The details

Nagle went 3-10 as the Jets' starting quarterback in 1992, throwing 17 interceptions and only 7 touchdowns. He was replaced by Boomer Esiason in 1993 and released in 1994, finishing his NFL career with the Indianapolis Colts and Atlanta Falcons. After the NFL, Nagle played in the Arena Football League, throwing 74 touchdowns over two seasons with the Orlando Predators and Buffalo Destroyers.

  • Nagle was drafted by the Jets in 1991.
  • He started 13 games for the Jets in 1992.
  • Nagle was released by the Jets in 1994.
  • Nagle played in the Arena Football League in 1999 and 2000.

The players

Browning Nagle

A former quarterback who played for the New York Jets from 1991-1994 and was known for his standout performance in the 1991 Fiesta Bowl while playing for the University of Louisville.

Boomer Esiason

The quarterback who replaced Nagle as the Jets' starter in 1993.

Howard Schnellenberger

The head coach at the University of Louisville during Nagle's time there.

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What they’re saying

“We are saddened by the passing of Browning Nagle, former Fiesta Bowl MVP quarterback and Louisville great. His leadership on the field and passion for the game left a lasting mark on our program.”

— Louisville Football

The takeaway

Nagle's passing is a loss for both the Jets and Louisville football programs, who saw him as a promising young talent early in his career. His standout performance in the 1991 Fiesta Bowl and brief NFL stint with the Jets made him a memorable figure in the sport.