Jerry Stovall Obituary, Baton Rouge, LA Death – LSU Football Legend and Former Coach Dies at 85

The LSU community is mourning the reported passing of Jerry Stovall, the legendary Tigers football player and former head coach who died at the age of 85.

Stovall built a remarkable legacy at Louisiana State University, first as an exceptional player and later as the program’s head coach. His death was reported by Tiger Rag, with additional details expected as information becomes available.

A native of West Monroe, Louisiana, Stovall played for LSU from 1960 through 1962, contributing on offense, defense and special teams. During his college career, he recorded 1,081 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns, along with 452 receiving yards and one touchdown.

His extraordinary 1962 season cemented his place in LSU history. Stovall was named a unanimous All-American, the SEC Player of the Year, and finished second in the Heisman Trophy voting.

The following year, Stovall was selected second overall in the 1963 NFL Draft by the St. Louis Cardinals. He transitioned to defensive back and spent nine seasons in the NFL, earning three Pro Bowl selections and second-team All-Pro honors in 1966.

Stovall eventually returned to LSU in 1974 as the Tigers’ running backs coach under Charles McClendon.

After head coach Bo Rein died before the 1980 season, Stovall took over as LSU’s head coach. He led the Tigers from 1980 through 1983, compiling a 22-21-2 record over four seasons.

His most successful season came in 1982, when LSU finished 8-3-1 and earned a place in the Orange Bowl. Stovall was subsequently named the Walter Camp Football Foundation Coach of the Year.

From All-American player to NFL defensive back and LSU head coach, Stovall spent decades connected to football at the highest levels.

Details concerning the circumstances and cause of Jerry Stovall’s death have not been publicly disclosed in the information provided.

For LSU fans, former teammates, players, coaches and members of the football community, his passing marks the loss of one of the most accomplished figures in Tigers history.

Jerry Stovall leaves behind a lasting LSU legacy as an All-American, SEC Player of the Year, NFL Pro Bowler and former Tigers head coach.