John Madden, a football legend who died Tuesday was lost to the world. Madden rose to prominence as the Oakland Raiders coach. The team won seven AFC championship games, and the Super Bowl. The Hall of Fame coach-turned-broadcaster was also known for his exuberant calls, and for more than three decades he was the voice of the National Football League (NFL).

His role as a pitchman meant he also became the face of hardware stores, restaurants and beer. He was a prominent figure in the videogame world, becoming as popular as his sport with “Madden NFL Football”, one of the best sports videogame series.

Twitter took notice of Madden’s passing on Tuesday evening. Few had any negative comments about Madden in the sports world, which is always full of rivalry.

Official account @NFL posted that the NFL was saddened by the loss of John Madden. He was 85.

“The Raiders Family is greatly saddened by John Madden’s passing,” stated the official account of Las Vegas Raiders. (@Raiders).

Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports), tweeted: “RIP John Madden, absolute legend.”

Clay Travis (@ClayTravis), a journalist and political commentator on sports and politics, commented, saying, “John Madden has been the most important and influential sports broadcaster in history.” He is a true legend in sports and people will play the game named after him for many generations. RIP”

“The death of a legend. John Madden, Hall of Famer and a giant in broadcasting, coaching, gaming and broadcasting, has passed away at the age 85,” stated ESPN’s SportsCenter (@SportsCenter).

Many NFL players, past and present, also used social media to express their condolences. Richard Sherman (@RSherman_25), a defensive back for Tampa Bay Buccaneers tweeted: “R.I.P. to John Madden. I consider it an honor to be featured on the cover of your game. Many thanks for years of motivation and joy!

A Sports Legend Dies

On social media, many fans suggested that EA Sport’s next issue of “Madden NFL Football” should not feature a player but honor the great coach. This outpouring in love and respect shows Madden’s popularity among fans.

Scott Steinberg, expert in brand marketing said “Madden had an important impact on world sports.”

Steinberg said that “His oversized personality, love for the sport and his passion have made his name well-known to many people,” adding Steinberg who monitors social media trends. His enthusiasm for the videogame franchise was the same as in his sporting broadcasts. This is why there was such outpouring in his memory. Also, it is not clear whether that void can ever be filled.

To many in America, football is almost a religion – and tearing down the other team has become the norm, yet Madden was always able to rise above it.

Steinberg said that he was “the last big coach loved by so many people.” Steinberg said that he was at the wheel of the team when coaches were just as dominant as players. He was the patron saint for friendly bantering and trash talking. His memory will not be forgotten.”