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Prayers Pouring In After Former Notre Dame Football Star Dies At 53

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Jul 1, 2025 6:04 PM ET

A former recipient of USA Today's High School Football Defensive Player of the Year award has passed away this week.

Former Notre Dame defensive lineman Oliver Gibson has died at the age of 53. The university confirmed this heartbreaking news on Monday with this statement: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Oliver Gibson. We send our condolences to his family and friends."

Gibson played at Notre Dame before taking his talents to the pro level. He was then selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the fourth round of the 1995 NFL Draft.

Before wrapping up his career in 2004, Gibson spent time on the Cincinnati Bengals, Buffalo Bills and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Illinois native finished his NFL career with 243 tackles and 17.5 sacks.

As you'd imagine, the football community is devastated by this week's news.

SOUTH BEND, IN - SEPTEMBER 01: General view of the Notre Dame campus during the game between the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets on September 1, 2007 at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Indiana. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

"Devastated to hear of the passing of one of my favorite Chicago area players Oliver Gibson," Prep football analyst Tom Lemming wrote. "1989 USA today DPOY. Romeoville HS, IL, Notre Dame, Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cincinnati Bengals. Wonderful young man, team leader with a great personality."

"I am deeply saddened by the news of Oliver Gibson’s passing. It’s hard to put into words the sorrow that comes with losing someone who meant so much to the Notre Dame family and to so many of personally. Rest in peace, OG," Notre Dame author Lisa Kelly wrote.

"So sad to hear this. Thoughts are with Oliver’s family and friends," one person said.

"May his soul rest in peace," another person wrote.

The cause of death for Gibson has not been announced at this time.

We're keeping Gibson's loved ones in our thoughts.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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