Denver Broncos legendary halfback Floyd Little died Friday night at age 78 after a battle with cancer, the American Football Hall of Fame announced Saturday.

Little, nicknamed “The Franchise,” was the first star player for the Broncos and from 1968-1973 had more yards from scrimmage than any other NFL player.

The five-time Pro Bowl player had nine NFL seasons, all with the Broncos, and accumulated 6,323 rushing yards on 1,641 carries, 215 receptions for 2,418 yards, 81 punt returns for 893 yards and 54 total touchdowns.

“Floyd Little was not only a Hall of Fame running back, he was a Hall of Fame person,” NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said. “Faith, family and football were the pillars of his life.

“He worked to inspire many to be the best they could be.”

Little’s jersey number 44, was retired by the Broncos. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010.

After his career, Little was a treasured ambassador for the Broncos, the NFL and his alma mater, Syracuse University.

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“Floyd Little was a true hero of the game,” Hall of Fame president David Baker said. “He was a man of great integrity, passion and courage. His contributions off the field were even greater than his amazing accomplishments on it. Floyd’s smile, heart and character epitomized what it meant to have a Hall of Fame life.”

“Floyd was a wonderful ambassador for the game and the Denver Broncos, carrying himself with warmth, kindness and class — always with humility and a smile.” Broncos’ President and CEO Joe Ellis said. 

President-elect Joe Biden, who was his classmate at Syracuse University when Little was a gridiron star, recalled watching “his number 44 flashing by defenders who had no chance.” 

“In the years that followed, I got to know Floyd as the man behind the number.He was full of character, decency, and integrity. He was always gracious with his time with fans, parents and grandparents who wanted to introduce their children and grandchildren to a genuine role model.I was one of them,” Biden said in a statement.