American football star-turned-actor David 'deacon' Jones has died aged 74.

The sportsman passed away at his home in southern California on Monday night (03Jun13), and his death has been attributed to natural causes, according to Washington Redskins general manager Bruce Allen.

Allen, whose late father George Allen coached Jones with the Los Angeles Rams and the Washington Redskins, says of the football star, "Deacon Jones was one of the greatest players in Nfl (National Football League) history. Off the field, he was a true giant. His passion and spirit will continue to inspire those who knew him. He was a cherished member of the Allen family and I will always consider him my big brother."

Jones played with the Rams from 1961 to 1972 before moving to the San Diego Chargers and he concluded his career at the Redskins in 1974. He is credited with coining the term 'quarterback sack' for a well-known defensive manoeuvre and he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1980.

Jones landed several small acting roles both during and after his playing career. He was a guest star on a handful of television shows including Bewitched, The Brady Bunch and The Odd Couple, and also appeared in the 1978 Warren Beatty film Heaven Can Wait.