Jackie Cline, a powerful and determined defensive lineman who carved out a successful career across the NFL, CFL, and USFL, passed away on July 24th, 2024, at the age of 64 after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on April 28, 1960, in Birmingham, Alabama, Cline grew up with a fierce competitive spirit and a love for football that carried him from local fields to the professional stage.
Cline played college football at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where his strength, quickness, and relentless motor made him one of the program’s early standouts. His professional journey began in the United States Football League, where he played for the Birmingham Stallions and quickly became known for his toughness and versatility along the defensive front.
He later joined the Pittsburgh Steelers, Miami Dolphins, and Detroit Lions. appearing in 29 NFL games between 1987 and 1990. Cline’s ability to play both defensive end and tackle made him a valuable part of the Dolphins’ rotation, and his work ethic earned the respect of teammates and coaches.
Across every league he played in, Jackie Cline was remembered as a fierce competitor—strong, disciplined, and unafraid of hard work. Off the field, he was known for his kindness, humility, and devotion to family. Friends recall his easy smile, his steady presence, and the pride he carried for the places and people who shaped his life.
Condolences to his family and friends and may he Rest in Peace.
Sourced using Wikipedia, MSN, Football Reference and several social media posts. Special thanks to Tony Pavon of PrideOfTheTide.com, who notified this page of this news.
Cline played college football at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where his strength, quickness, and relentless motor made him one of the program’s early standouts. His professional journey began in the United States Football League, where he played for the Birmingham Stallions and quickly became known for his toughness and versatility along the defensive front.
He later joined the Pittsburgh Steelers, Miami Dolphins, and Detroit Lions. appearing in 29 NFL games between 1987 and 1990. Cline’s ability to play both defensive end and tackle made him a valuable part of the Dolphins’ rotation, and his work ethic earned the respect of teammates and coaches.
Across every league he played in, Jackie Cline was remembered as a fierce competitor—strong, disciplined, and unafraid of hard work. Off the field, he was known for his kindness, humility, and devotion to family. Friends recall his easy smile, his steady presence, and the pride he carried for the places and people who shaped his life.
Condolences to his family and friends and may he Rest in Peace.
Sourced using Wikipedia, MSN, Football Reference and several social media posts. Special thanks to Tony Pavon of PrideOfTheTide.com, who notified this page of this news.
