Bob Heinz, a defensive tackle who was a crucial part of the Miami Dolphins' "No-Name Defense" and their historic 1972 undefeated season, has died at the age of 79. His family announced his passing on October 31.
Heinz died in California of natural causes after being diagnosed with heart failure four years prior, according to the Miami Herald. The Dolphins organization extended its condolences, remembering Heinz as a "two-time Super Bowl champion and a key part of Miami’s legendary No-Name Defense."
Born in Milwaukee, Heinz later moved to California, where he attended Delta College and the University of the Pacific. The Dolphins selected him in the second round of the 1969 NFL Draft. He joined a Miami team that became contenders under coach Don Shula, reaching three consecutive Super Bowls and winning two.
Heinz played in 14 regular season and postseason games for the 1972 Dolphins, the only team in NFL history to complete a perfect season. He played 109 games for Miami during his career, recording nine sacks, and appeared in 11 playoff games with 10 starts, accumulating 2.5 sacks. He concluded his playing career with a brief stint in Washington in 1978.
Heinz was also inducted into the University of the Pacific's athletic Hall of Fame in 1988 for his accomplishments in football and track. His family has requested donations to the Miami Dolphins Foundation in lieu of flowers.