John Elway's Longtime Agent, Jeff Sperbeck, Dies Following Golf Cart Accident At The Madison Club

Jeff Sperbeck, a prominent sports agent and close friend of NFL Hall of Famer John Elway, has died at age 62 following a tragic golf cart accident in La Quinta, California. The incident occurred on the evening of April 26, 2025, as Sperbeck and Elway were leaving a post-festival gathering after attending the Stagecoach music festival in Indio. According to reports, Sperbeck fell from a moving golf cart driven by Elway at The Madison Club, sustaining a severe head injury. Elway immediately called 911, and Sperbeck was transported to Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs, where he was placed on life support. Despite efforts to save him, Sperbeck passed away on April 30. ​

Sperbeck began representing Elway in 1990 during his career as Denver Broncos quarterback and went on to serve more than 100 NFL players over the course of three decades. He was instrumental in managing Elway’s off-field ventures, including restaurants, car dealerships, and their co-founded winery, 7Cellars. Sperbeck also co-founded the Sullivan & Sperbeck firm, later acquired by Octagon, and led its football division before launching The NOVO Agency, which merged with Rep1 Sports in 2018. Known for his extensive contributions to sports marketing and management, Sperbeck also actively supported various charitable causes. 

Following the incident, the Riverside County Sheriff's Office initiated an investigation. While the investigation is ongoing, authorities have found no signs of negligence by Elway. Elway, who was reportedly present at the scene and made the initial 911 call, expressed profound grief over the loss of his close friend and business partner.

In a statement, Elway said inpart, "I'm absolutely devastated and heartbroken by the passing of my close friend, business partner and agent Jeff Sperbeck. There are no words to truly express the profound sadness I feel with the sudden loss of someone who has meant so much to me." 

This tragic incident has raised awareness about the safety of golf carts, particularly in residential communities like La Quinta. Local authorities emphasize the importance of adhering to safety guidelines, such as wearing seat belts, obeying speed limits, and ensuring that all passengers are securely seated before operating the vehicle. For more information tune into NBC Palm Springs.