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Ex-Dolphin Manny Fernandez, 1972 Champion, Dies 79

5/26/2026

Summary

Manny Fernandez Dies

The United States announced Manny Fernandez, former Miami Dolphins defensive lineman, died at age 79 on Tuesday.
Undrafted in 1968, he recorded 35 sacks, earned All-Pro honors in 1970 and 1973, and was a three-time All-AFC selection.
He anchored the No-Name Defense that won the 1972 perfect season and 1973 Super Bowl, was inducted into the Dolphins’ Ring of Honor, and was ranked the 10th-best Super Bowl player in 2015.

Summary

Manny Fernandez Dies

He became the 23rd 1972 Dolphin to die, joining six former coaches including Don Shula.
He broke his jaw and lost nine teeth in a Jan. 14, 1972 motorcycle crash.
In a 2022 interview, he said his 250-lb frame succeeded because he was stronger, quicker, and smarter.
Owner Stephen Ross presented him a plaque during his Ring of Honor induction at halftime on Dec. 21, 2014.

Summary

Manny Fernandez Honored

The Dolphins will honor Manny Fernandez with a special recognition during an upcoming home game.
Club executives are discussing commemorative initiatives to extend Fernandez’s legacy alongside the tribute.
Fans and current players are expected to share memories of Fernandez as part of the ceremony.
The organization plans on-field acknowledgments and social-media posts to celebrate Fernandez’s career.
The ceremony will highlight his 1970 down-ballot MVP consideration to emphasize league-wide respect.

History

Historical Context

In 1972 Don Shula led the Miami Dolphins to a 14-0 regular season and a 17-0 finish, the NFL’s only perfect campaign, highlighted by the “No-Name Defense.” The team’s 1972 roster, including defensive tackle Manny Fernandez—inducted into the Dolphins Honor Roll in 2014—was honored again in 2022, underscoring the franchise’s enduring legacy.

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Manny Fernandez Dies

The United States announced Manny Fernandez, former Miami Dolphins defensive lineman, died at age 79 on Tuesday.
Undrafted in 1968, he recorded 35 sacks, earned All-Pro honors in 1970 and 1973, and was a three-time All-AFC selection.
He anchored the No-Name Defense that won the 1972 perfect season and 1973 Super Bowl, was inducted into the Dolphins’ Ring of Honor, and was ranked the 10th-best Super Bowl player in 2015.

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