Bob Heinz, Dolphins’ 1972 Champion, Dies at 79

Bob Heinz, a former Miami Dolphins defensive tackle and member of the NFL’s undefeated 1972 team, has died at 79. His son, John Heinz, announced his death on Tuesday, according to one report. Another account said the Dolphins announced his passing that day. The accounts do not establish whether these were separate announcements or identify which came first. Heinz died at his home in Fresno, California, on Saturday, October 31, according to one report. The Miami Dolphins said he played for the team from 1969 through 1977 and was part of its 1972 Perfect Team, which won Super Bowl VII. He also won a second Super Bowl with Miami the following season, when the team defeated Minnesota in Super Bowl VIII. The Dolphins described Heinz as a key part of the team’s No-Name Defense, which helped Miami complete the only undefeated season in NFL history. The team finished 17-0 in 1972, including the postseason. Heinz played alongside defensive linemen Vern Den Herder, Bill Stanfill and Manny Fernandez during Miami’s championship seasons under coach Don Shula. Miami selected Heinz 37th overall in the second round of the 1969 NFL Draft. He earned a starting role in 1971, recording 3.5 sacks...