Tight end who played in the NFL for 13 seasons, earning two Pro Bowl selections and helping the St. Louis Rams win Super Bowl XXXIV.
J. V. Cain was an American football tight end who played for the St. Louis Cardinals of the National Football League (NFL) from 1974 to 1978. He is remembered for his promising career, which was cut short by a sudden and tragic death at the age of 28.
Cain was selected seventh overall in the 1974 NFL Draft by the St. Louis Cardinals, despite the team already having a starting tight end in Jackie Smith. He played in 28 games with ten starts in his first two seasons, totaling 286 yards and two touchdowns, and was named the Cardinals rookie of the year in 1974.
In 1976, Cain became a full-time starting tight end for the Cardinals, starting all 14 games and catching for 400 yards and five touchdowns. He started every game of the 1977 season as well, catching for 328 yards and two touchdowns.
Cain was a devout Christian, and during his time off due to an Achilles tendon injury in 1978, he devoted himself to reading the Bible and praying. He prayed to recover from his injury and become an All-Pro tight end.
Tragically, on July 22, 1979, Cain's 28th birthday, he collapsed during a no-contact training camp practice at Lindenwood College in St. Charles, Missouri. He was revived by CPR but died less than two hours later at St. Joseph's Hospital. The autopsy revealed that he died from an extremely rare congenital heart problem that was exacerbated by strenuous exercise.
Cain's story serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of living each day to the fullest. His legacy continues to inspire athletes and non-athletes alike, reminding them to cherish every moment and strive for excellence.
Cain's tragic story has been referenced in various forms of media, including films, books, and documentaries, serving as a reminder of the importance of living life to the fullest.
J. V. Cain's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of cherishing every moment and striving for excellence in all aspects of life. His legacy continues to inspire and motivate people to this day.
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