Eddie LeBaron, NFL QB, war hero dies at 85

STOCKTON, Calif. - College football Hall of Famer, former NFL quarterback and war hero Eddie LeBaron Jr. has died. He was 85.

The University of the Pacific said Mr. LeBaron died of natural causes Wednesday.

Mr. LeBaron played at Pacific for coach Amos Alonzo Stagg and also helped lead the Tigers to an undefeated season in 1949.

He later served as a U.S. Marine in the Korean War and was awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for heroism.

Standing just 5-foot-7, Mr. LeBaron played 11 seasons in the NFL for Washington and Dallas. He threw for 13,399 yards and 104 touchdowns and was selected to four Pro Bowls.

He later served as general manager for the Atlanta Falcons from 1977 to 1982 and was the league's executive of the year in 1980. He also served on the NFL's competition committee.

He is survived by his wife Doralee, sons Edward "Wayne" III, Richard and William, and five grandchildren.