Legendary Patriots center Jon Morris dead at 84 as Robert Kraft pays emotional tribute

By MAX WINTERS, US DEPUTY SPORTS EDITOR

Jon Morris, who played 11 of his 15-year AFL and NFL career with the Boston and New England Patriots, has died at the age of 84.

Morris' death was announced Thursday by the Patriots. A cause of death was not disclosed.

A six-time AFL All-Star center for the Boston Patriots from 1964 to 1969, Morris was also a Pro Bowl selection in 1970 when the team joined the NFL as part of the AFL-NFL merger.

A standout at Holy Cross, Morris was selected by the Boston Patriots in the fourth round of the 1964 AFL draft and by the Green Bay Packers in the second round of the NFL draft.

He opted to remain in New England, beginning a professional career that would last 15 seasons, including three with Detroit from 1974 to 1977, and his final season with Chicago in 1978.

'Jon Morris was one of the great players who helped build the foundation of our franchise,' said Patriots owner Robert Kraft.

Legendary New England Patriots center Jon Morris has died at the age of 84

A six-time AFL All-Star center for the Boston Patriots, Morris was also a Pro Bowler in the NFL

'For generations of Patriots fans, he represented the toughness, dedication and pride of those early teams. It meant so much to me to call Jon in 2011 and tell him he had been selected to our Hall of Fame, ensuring that his contributions would always be remembered.

'On behalf of our family and the entire Patriots organization, we extend our deepest condolences to Jon's family, friends and former teammates.'

Morris helped anchor an offensive line during his tenure that included future Patriots Hall of Famers Gino Cappelletti, Babe Parilli and Jim Nance.

Morris' honors earned him induction into the Patriots Hall of Fame in 2011. He was also included on the Patriots' 50th anniversary team in 2009.