Cincinnati Bengals Legendary Linebacker Bill Bergey Dies

CINCINNATI — 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 was traded to the Eagles in 1974 after he signed with the World Football League. The Bengals received a first round pick in 1977 and first and second round picks in 1978.

"It was a good price and he deserved a good price. He played very well and had a number of good years with the Eagles," Bengals President Mike Brown told Bengals.com. "He had the size and he could run. He was a bona fide linebacker. Back when middle linebacker was probably considered the most important position on the defense. He could impact the run game and participate in the passing game."

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

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 Bergey🙏🕯️

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

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