Oct 1970; Unknown Location, USA; FILE PHOTO; Cincinnati Bengals linebacker (66) Bill Bergey during the 1970 season. Mandatory Credit: Tony Tomsic-USA TODAY NETWORK Tony Tomsic-Imagn Images

Cincinnati Bengals Legendary Linebacker Bill Bergey Dies

Originally posted on Cincinnati Bengals on SI
By James Rapien | Last updated Dec 25, 2024 1:24 PM ET

A Bengals legend has died.

Bill Bergey passed away after a three-year battle with cancer. His son Jake made the announcement on social media. He was 79 years old.

Bergey spent the first five seasons of his career in Cincinnati. He was named AFL Defensive Rookie of the Year and made the Pro Bowl in 1969.

The Bengals took him in the second-round (31st overall) in the 1969 NFL Draft.

Bergey signed with the Eagles in 1974. He spent seven seasons in Philadelphia. He was a two-time All-Pro and four-time Pro Bowler in Philadelphia.

May he rest in peace.

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

RIP Bill Bergey️

Middle Linebacker#Bengals #Eagles, 1969-80

One of the #NFL's greatest linebackers of the 1970s

• 1969 AFL Defensive Rookie of the Year
• 5 Pro Bowls
• 5x All-Pro, 3x First-Team
• 1980 NFC Champion #FlyEaglesFly
• Finished second in 1974 NFL Defensive… pic.twitter.com/Bu81zjt0Z5
— Kevin Gallagher (@KevG163) December 25, 2024