Bob Heinz, a former Miami Dolphins defensive tackle and two-time Super Bowl champion, has died. The news was confirmed by his family and later acknowledged by the franchise, where he spent most of his professional career. Heinz was part of one of the NFL’s most memorable defenses of the 1970s and played a role in Miami’s historic undefeated 1972 season. His death prompted tributes from former teammates and football fans. Here’s what we know about his passing.
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How Did Bob Heinz Die?
Bob Heinz died on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at his home in Fresno, California. His son, John Heinz, confirmed the news and said the former player died of natural causes.
Four years before his death, Bob had been diagnosed with heart failure. His family did not specify whether the condition was related to his passing.
The Miami Dolphins also released a statement expressing their condolences to his family and remembering his contributions during one of the most important periods in the franchise’s history.
How Old Was Bob Heinz?
Bob Heinz was 79 years old at the time of his death.
What Was Bob Heinz’s Net Worth?
Bob Heinz’s net worth was estimated at between $1 million and $3 million. His wealth was attributed to his nine seasons as an NFL player and his subsequent career as an advertising executive in California.
During his professional football career, he played for the Miami Dolphins and the Washington team. After retiring from the sport, he built a career in the advertising industry, where he also earned professional income.
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Who Was Bob Heinz?
Robert Kenneth Heinz was a former American football player who played defensive tackle in the NFL. He was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and moved with his family to Stockton, California, during his teenage years.
He attended Lincoln High School, where he played football and basketball and competed in track and field. He later continued his education at San Joaquin Delta College and the University of the Pacific, where he excelled in both football and track and field.
In 1969, the Miami Dolphins selected him in the second round of the NFL Draft, with the 37th overall pick. Joining the team marked the beginning of a professional career that lasted through 1977.
During those years, he was part of the Dolphins’ so-called No-Name Defense, a defensive unit that earned recognition for its performance under head coach Don Shula. Heinz started for the team during its historic perfect 1972 season, when Miami finished with 17 wins and no losses.
That same year, he won Super Bowl VII after defeating Washington. In 1973, he lifted the trophy again after the Dolphins defeated the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl VIII.
In 1978, he played his final professional season with Washington. His NFL career statistics included 111 games played, 55 starts, nine sacks and one fumble recovery.
His college career also earned recognition. In 1988, he was inducted into the University of the Pacific Athletic Hall of Fame. After retiring from professional football, he worked in sales and advertising, eventually building a career as an executive in Palo Alto and Menlo Park, California.
In his personal life, he was married to Carol Covington for 56 years. They had three children together: Julie, Joe and John, as well as two grandchildren. His interests included listening to Jimmy Buffett’s music and following the San Francisco Giants.
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Bob Heinz was part of one of the NFL’s most memorable defenses of the 1970s and played a role in Miami’s historic undefeated 1972 season Read More