Bill Bergey, a former NFL linebacker and Philadelphia Eagles icon, passed away at the age of 79 after a three-year battle with cancer.
The news was announced by his son, Jake Bergey, in a heartfelt message shared on social media.
“The best father, friend, grandfather, football player, and outright great person in this world,” Jake Bergey wrote. “I will truly miss him. Love you dad.”
After a long hard 3 year battle, Dad lost his fight with Cancer. The best father, friend, grand father, football player and out right great person in this world. I will truly miss him. Love you dad. pic.twitter.com/RTLln3UA8o
— Jake Bergey (@Bergey66) December 25, 2024
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Bill Bergey, a second-round draft pick for the Cincinnati Bengals in 1969, quickly made a name for himself by earning Defensive Rookie of the Year honors.
He spent five seasons with the Bengals, where he established himself as a dominant force on defense, including earning a Pro Bowl selection.
We’re saddened to learn of the death of Bill Bergey, who played twelve seasons in the AFL/NFL for the Cincinnati Bengals and Philadelphia Eagles. Our prayers and condolences go out to his family at this time 🙏🏾
Bergey’s final career statistics:
• 1969 AFL Defensive Rookie of… pic.twitter.com/7aYYRxOzzK
— Four Verts 🏈 (@FourVerticals_) December 25, 2024
However, Bergey’s career reached new heights after joining the Philadelphia Eagles in 1974.
RIP Eagles legend Bill Bergey pic.twitter.com/gILFrML7JX
— Crossing Broad (@CrossingBroad) December 25, 2024
Over his seven seasons with the Eagles, Bergey became a cornerstone of the team’s defense.
RIP to one of the greatest Eagles players of all time.
Bill Bergey pic.twitter.com/QVflUuWT2G— BirdGang🦅 (@GordonsWord) December 25, 2024
He earned four Pro Bowl selections and two first-team All-Pro honors during his time in Philadelphia.
Bergey also received second-team All-Pro recognition on three additional occasions.
In his standout 1974 season, Bergey recorded five interceptions and 3.5 sacks, narrowly missing out on Defensive Player of the Year honors to Pittsburgh Steelers’ legendary defensive tackle, Mean Joe Greene.
By the time Bergey retired in 1980, he had amassed 27 interceptions and 18.5 sacks over his 12-year NFL career.
His contributions to the Eagles made him one of the most beloved figures in Philadelphia sports history.
Following his retirement from professional football, Bergey remained a prominent figure in the Philadelphia sports community.
He became a fixture on local sports talk radio, sharing his insights and experiences while continuing to connect with Eagles fans.
His charismatic personality and deep knowledge of the game endeared him to listeners across the city.
Bill Bergey’s impact on the NFL and the Philadelphia Eagles is enduring.
His combination of skill, toughness, and leadership set a standard for linebackers in his era.
Known for his relentless playing style, Bergey’s career achievements remain a testament to his dedication to the game.
Bergey’s passing marks the loss of a true football legend and a cherished member of the Philadelphia sports community.
His contributions on and off the field will be remembered by fans, teammates, and friends alike.
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