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The Tireless Linebacker

William Earl "Bill" Bergey was born on February 9, 1945, in South Dayton, New York. He attended...

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FOOTBALL TEAM | Cincinnati Bengals

"The Tireless Linebacker: Bill Bergey's Relentless NFL Career"

Last updated 📅 2025-02-09

William Earl "Bill" Bergey was born on February 9, 1945, in South Dayton, New York. He attended Arkansas State University, where he established himself as a dominant force on defense. Bergey set numerous school records, including best tackling average in a season and most career tackles, earning All-American honors and being voted the Top Player in Arkansas State history by fans. His collegiate achievements laid the foundation for a successful professional career.

**Road to the Pro Game

Bergey's talent was recognized when he was drafted in the second round (31st overall) of the 1969 NFL/AFL draft by the Cincinnati Bengals. He made an immediate impact, earning AFL Defensive Rookie of the Year honors and a Pro Bowl selection in his rookie season. After five seasons with the Bengals, Bergey was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in 1974, where he would reach the peak of his career.

**Football Legacy

Bill Bergey became a cornerstone of the Philadelphia Eagles' defense in the late 1970s, leading the "Gang Green" defense that propelled the team to their first Super Bowl appearance in Super Bowl XV. A tenacious and intelligent linebacker, Bergey was a five-time Pro Bowler and a two-time First-Team All-Pro. He set an NFL record for most interceptions by a linebacker during his time with the Eagles and was recognized as the team's MVP three times. Known for his relentless effort and leadership, Bergey played with exceptional toughness, even playing in his final Super Bowl with significant injuries. He is a member of the Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame and the Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest linebackers of his era.

**Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats:

✦ 5x Pro Bowl (1969, 1974, 1976-1978)

✦ 2x First-Team All-Pro (1974, 1975)

✦ 3x Second-Team All-Pro (1976-1978)

✦ AFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (1969)

✦ Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame

✦ Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame

✦ Cincinnati Bengals 50th Anniversary Team

✦ First-Team Little All-American (1968)

✦ Career NFL Stats: 159 games played, 27 interceptions, 21 fumble recoveries, 16 unofficial sacks.

  • HASHTAGS: #February09 #BergeyBill #BillBergey #Linebacker #CincinnatiBengals #PhiladelphiaEagles #Number66
  • DOB: February 09
  • EVENTDAY: February 09
  • FOOTBALL NAME: Bergey Bill, Bill Bergey
  • FOOTBALL POSITION: Linebacker
  • FOOTBALL TEAM: Cincinnati Bengals, Philadelphia Eagles
  • NFL JERSEY: Number 66
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