John Elway, the Pro Football Hall of Famer, recently lost his longtime agent and close friend Jeff Sperbeck, who passed away at 62 following a tragic accident. Sperbeck suffered a severe brain injury after falling from a golf cart on the evening of April 26, and four days later, on Wednesday afternoon, he succumbed to his injuries, as confirmed by the Riverside County Sheriff-Coroner’s Office. The agency announced on April 30 that Sperbeck’s family had been notified of his passing.
According to reports from PEOPLE, Sperbeck was with Elway when the accident occurred. Details remain unclear, but Sperbeck was reportedly pushed off the golf cart, resulting in critical brain trauma.
Following the incident, Sperbeck was placed on life support, with doctors preserving his life only long enough to facilitate organ donation, according to TMZ. It was John Elway himself who made the initial emergency call. Beyond their professional relationship—Elway, 64, is a former NFL star and Denver Broncos general manager—the two shared a deep friendship and business partnership.
Their association dates back to Sperbeck representing Elway as his agent starting in 1990, which evolved into a strong personal bond and successful collaboration over the years.
The accident happened at The Madison Club in La Quinta, California, on Saturday night. Witnesses say Sperbeck was riding on the back of the golf cart when he unexpectedly fell while Elway was driving. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office has launched an investigation into the circumstances of the incident. PEOPLE has reached out to authorities for further updates.
Fans and colleagues have expressed their condolences, with many sharing their sorrow on social media. “Jeff Sperbeck, agent and best friend of NFL legend John Elway, passed away today after a tragic accident,” one post read. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to John and the Sperbeck family during this difficult time.”
Outside of sports, Elway and Sperbeck shared a passion for fine wine, co-founding the winery 7Cellars. Sperbeck also played a key role in helping Elway expand his post-football ventures, including several restaurants bearing Elway’s name. Over his career, Sperbeck represented more than 100 NFL players and was highly regarded for his sharp negotiation skills and strong client relationships.
John Elway, a two-time Super Bowl champion and former Broncos GM, has lost not just an agent but a lifelong friend and trusted partner.
