The Brief

Paul Tagliabue, who served as NFL commissioner from 1989 to 2006 and oversaw an era of labor peace and massive financial growth, died Sunday of heart failure at age 84.

During his tenure, Tagliabue strengthened the league’s substance abuse policy, introduced the "Rooney Rule," and expanded diversity in coaching and leadership positions.

Though praised for his leadership and stability, he faced criticism for the league’s slow response to concussions, later acknowledging he mishandled the issue.

Paul Tagliabue, who led the NFL for 17 years as commissioner, guiding the league through an era of labor peace and financial growth but facing criticism for his handling of concussion issues, died Sunday of heart failure at age 84.

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NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said Tagliab

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