The Miami Dolphins are mourning the loss of former defensive lineman Bob Heinz, who helped the franchise win consecutive Super Bowls and complete the NFL's only undefeated campaign in 1972-73. He passed away in California on Oct. 31 at 79 years of age.

This news comes shortly after the Detroit Lions handed the Minnesota Vikings their first loss of the season, allowing living members of the 1972 perfect team to celebrate their immortalized record for another year. Hall of Fame running back Larry Csonka marked the occasion with a social media post and a drink, toasting all those who experienced that legendary accomplishment. Heinz did not have the opportunity to partake in any merriment of his own.

The Dolphins publicly addressed the passing on Tuesday. “We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, loved ones and former teammates,” the team posted on X.

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Heinz played eight of his nine NFL seasons with Miami, finishing up his career with the then-Washington Redskins in 1978. He started 11 total games during the fabled 1972 run, including all three playoff matchups. The No. 37 overall pick in the 1969 NFL Draft was a proud member of the No-Name Defense, which allowed an NFL-best 12.2 points per game en route to a 14-0 record (17-0 overall).

Bob Heinz, who measured in at 6-foot-6, finished with 11.5 sacks in 122 games (including playoffs). Chasing perfection is near-impossible, but this man is part of a select group of individuals who came together to capture it more than half a century ago. The Heinz family is in our prayers during this difficult time.