I woke up to very sad news this morning. It appears that NFL Players Association Executive Director Gene Upshaw has lost his battle to pancreatic cancer.

Though people sometimes accused him of not negotiating tough enough with owners, it's only fair to note that he's been in his position since 1983 and has been there through the flourishing of free agency and a ridiculous rise in player salaries. No matter what you thought of him, it's clear that Upshaw leaves behind a legacy for the National Football League, and a very big chair to fill.

R.I.P.