The Miami Dolphins are mourning the loss of Manny Fernandez. The legendary defensive lineman of the famous “No-Name Defense” has passed away at the age of 79. He played a key role in what remains the only perfect season in NFL history.

The Miami Dolphins are mourning the loss of one of their greatest icons: As the franchise announced on Tuesday, former defensive lineman Manny Fernandez has passed away at the age of 79.

He is considered one of the best players in franchise history and was a cornerstone of the legendary “Perfect Season” of 1972.

Fernandez spent his entire eight-year NFL career in Miami and was a key part of the famous “No-Name Defense,” which led the Dolphins to three consecutive Super Bowl appearances—the team won the championship in 1972 and 1973.

The Florida franchise honored Fernandez in a statement as “one of the best players in Dolphins history.”

Manny Fernandez with an outstanding performance in Super Bowl VII

The pro, who was signed as an undrafted free agent in 1968, delivered one of his career highlights in Super Bowl VII: With 17 tackles and a sack, he played a key role in the 14-7 victory over Washington.

With this victory, the Dolphins capped off a perfect 1972 season and remain the only team in NFL history to finish the season completely undefeated (17-0).

“Our thoughts are with his family, loved ones, and teammates as we remember one of the best players in franchise history,” the Dolphins added.