Hall of Fame player and longtime NFL Players Association executive director Gene Upshaw has died, according to a report citing unnamed sources by Clear Channel Online.

Upshaw's illness was unreported on and his death was wholly unexpected.

Often a lightning rod for criticism for a too-cozy relationship with former NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue, Upshaw presided over major gains for players.

http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/26326065/

The recently often embattled head of the NFLPA  passes away at the age of 63, It's also being reported that he apparently died of pancreatic cancer. This was very unexpected as there hasn't been any indication that Gene was even ill.

Gene was accused by some players that wanted him out of being to close to the NFL commisioner and the league and not looking out for the players on issues. Recently, there have been calls for him to step down via retirement, but Gene stood fast. There certainly will be a long search for his successor and could throw a wrench into the NFLPA and the leagues contract negotiations that the Teams opted out of this year that could bring an uncapped year.. Whether you like him or not, Gene had a great deal to do with the way the players and the league have grown over the years into the multi-billion dollar industry that it is today.