A former defensive star for the Kansas City Chiefs has passed away.

Marvin Upshaw, a first-round pick who played in the NFL from 1968 to 1976, passed away on June 4 at the age of 77 while being treated at a hospital in Modesto, California.

That is according to 3News.



A standout at Trinity University, Upshaw was the 21st overall pick by the Cleveland Browns in 1968. He stayed in Cleveland for two seasons before being traded to the Chiefs, where he spent most of his career.

He played a season with the St. Louis Cardinals before the end of his NFL stint.

“Today we mourn the loss of former player Marvin Upshaw; whose passion & work ethic was undeniable in his 9yr career. Marvin & his brother, former NFLPA Executive Director, Gene Upshaw, will be remembered for their impact on the game. We send comfort to all who knew Marvin,” NFLPA Former Players wrote on X/Twitter.

Marvin was the younger brother of Hall of Famer Gene Upshaw, who passed away in 2008 at the age of 63.

The HOFer was a two-time Super Bowl champion with the Oakland Raiders, as well as an AFL champion. A six-time Pro Bowler and three-time First Team All-Pro, Gene was part of the NFL 1970s All-Decade Team, the NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team, and NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team.

While Marvin didn’t achieve similar accolades during his time in the league, he was an important player for the Kansas City Chiefs and is fondly remembered

Total Pro Sports extends condolences to the Upshaw family, as well as Marvin’s friends and loved ones.

Rest in peace, Marvin Upshaw. 1946-2024