Ernie Accorsi, the former general manager of the New York Giants credited with shaping the core of two Super Bowl-winning teams, died Saturday at the age of 84, the Giants organization and his family announced Sunday. The cause of death and location were not disclosed.

Accorsi served as the Giants' general manager from 1998 to 2006, a period in which the team won two NFC East titles and secured four playoff appearances. His tenure included the 2000 season when the Giants reached Super Bowl 35 but were defeated by the Baltimore Ravens. Although he retired before the Giants’ Super Bowl victories in the 2007 and 2011 seasons, he was honored with championship rings for both wins and was inducted into the franchise’s Ring of Honor in 2016, becoming one of only two general managers to receive the distinction.

Born in Hershey, Pennsylvania, in 1941, Accorsi began his professional career as a sportswriter before moving into public relations and front office roles in the NFL. He worked with the Baltimore Colts as an assistant general manager before becoming their GM in 1982. He later served as general manager of the Cleveland Browns from 1985 until 1992 before joining the Giants. Throughout his 37-year career in NFL management, Accorsi was recognized for his leadership and football acumen.

One of his most notable achievements came in 2004 when he orchestrated a trade with the San Diego Chargers to acquire the first overall pick in the NFL Draft, selecting quarterback Eli Manning. At the same time, he hired Tom Coughlin as head coach, moves widely credited with laying the foundation for the Giants’ subsequent success in the following years. Manning, who played a key role in the team's championships, regularly expressed gratitude toward Accorsi, citing him as a believer who had confidence in his potential from early in his career.

Accorsi also drafted several players who became significant contributors for the Giants, including Amani Toomer, Justin Tuck, Osi Umenyiora, Jeremy Shockey, Chris Snee, and Brandon Jacobs. Former Giants defensive end Justin Tuck reflected on Accorsi’s character, describing him as a man of integrity who consistently did things the right way and had a positive impact on players and staff alike.

Giants president John Mara praised Accorsi’s vision and leadership for building a championship organization, calling him a trusted adviser and dear friend. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell also commended Accorsi, highlighting his considerable influence not only on teams he managed but on the league itself through his role as co-chair of the General Managers Advisory Committee.

Accorsi is survived by his three children, Michael, Sherlyn, and Patrick, and their families. His family released a statement expressing deep gratitude to the NFL organizations he worked with and acknowledging the Giants as more than just a team to him, but a family he cherished throughout his career.