Tom Dempsey: Former New Orleans Saints record-breaking NFL kicker dies at 73 after coronavirus battle

The NFL's New Orleans Saints have confirmed the death of legendary former kicker Tom Dempsey at the age of 73.

Dempsey - who had battled Alzheimer's disease and dementia since 2013 - was diagnosed with novel coronavirus on March 25, his daughter Ashley told nola.com.

After attending college at Palomar, Dempsey spent 11 seasons in the NFL with the Saints, Philadelphia Eagles, Los Angeles Rams, Houston Oilers and Buffalo Bills before retiring in 1979.

He is best-known for kicking a record 63-yard field goal for the Saints as time expired in the fourth quarter of a contest against the Detroit Lions at Tulane Stadium in 1970.

That field-goal record - later equalled by Jason Elam, Sebastian Janikowski and David Akers - stood for 43 years before Matt Prater succeeded with a 64-yard kick for the Denver Broncos against the Tennessee Titans in December 2013.

Dempsey - who made the Pro Bowl as a rookie in 1969 while also receiving All-Pro honours - kicked with a custom-made shoe featuring a flattened and enlargened toe surface after being born without toes on his right foot or four fingers on this right hand.

He is survived by wife Carlene and three children, Ashley, Toby and Meghan.

"Our thoughts and prayers are extended to Carlene and the entire Dempsey family on the passing of their dear Tom," Saints owner Gayle Benson said in a statement.

"The New Orleans Saints family is deeply saddened and heartbroken at this most difficult time.

"Tom's life spoke directly to the power of the human spirit and exemplified his resolute determination to not allow setbacks to impede following his dreams and aspirations.

"He exemplified the same fight and fortitude in recent years as he battled valiantly against illnesses but never wavered and kept his trademark sense of humor.

"He holds a special place in the hearts and minds of the Saints family."

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