Roman Gabriel

August 5, 1940 – Wilmington, North Carolina

The Gentle Giant

• A powerful quarterback who became the first Filipino-American to lead an NFL franchise and was a Hollywood star.

College Career

Roman Gabriel was a two-sport standout at North Carolina State University, where he became one of the most decorated athletes in school history. As a quarterback for the Wolfpack, his physical stature and strong arm set him apart. He was a two-time All-American (1960, 1961), earning the title of ACC Player of the Year in both seasons. Gabriel led the ACC in total offense for three consecutive years and finished his collegiate career as the league’s all-time passing leader. He was also a star on the basketball court, showcasing his all-around athletic talent.

Road to the Pro Game

Gabriel’s talent made him the most coveted player in the 1962 professional drafts. He was the No. 1 overall pick in both the NFL Draft (by the Los Angeles Rams) and the AFL Draft (by the Oakland Raiders). He chose the Rams, a decision that would define his career. Gabriel spent 11 seasons with the Rams, enduring a challenging start before a breakout 1969 season. Following his time in Los Angeles, he was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles, where he revitalized his career and played for five seasons before retiring.

Football Legacy

Roman Gabriel’s legacy is defined by his powerful throwing arm, his surprising mobility for a man of his size, and his historic 1969 MVP season. He was the first Filipino-American to play quarterback in the NFL and became an icon for a new generation of players. Beyond the field, Gabriel leveraged his fame, appearing in several films and television shows, including the military classic The Undefeated. He was a gentle giant who transcended the sport, earning respect and admiration for his on-field performance and off-field demeanor. His status as a league MVP in a time dominated by legends like Johnny Unitas and Joe Namath underscores his place among the all-time greats.

Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

• NFL MVP (1969)
• NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1969)
• NFL Comeback Player of the Year (1973)
• 4x Pro Bowl Selection
• First-Team All-Pro (1969)
• NC State Ring of Honor
• Career Passing Yards: 29,444
• Career Passing Touchdowns: 201
• Career Games: 186