PHILADELPHIA — Bill Bergey, a celebrated linebacker recognized for his remarkable performance and dedication to the Philadelphia Eagles, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 79, according to an announcement from the team.
His son, Jake, shared the news through social media, revealing that Bergey had succumbed to cancer after bravely battling the illness over several years. A three-time MVP of the Eagles as voted by his teammates, Bergey had openly discussed his struggles with jaw cancer, which he had been diagnosed with in 2021.
“I’m not the type to dwell on ‘Why me?’,” he remarked in a previous interview, highlighting his determination to confront his health challenges head-on like any other fight.
Bergey, who began his professional career with the Cincinnati Bengals after being drafted in 1969, made a notable impact in the NFL. He achieved a single Pro Bowl selection with the Bengals before being traded to Philadelphia for the 1974 season. It was in Philadelphia that his career truly flourished, earning him recognition as one of the most beloved Eagles of his time. He secured Pro Bowl selections in 1974, 1976, 1977, and 1978, along with All-Pro honors in 1974 and 1975.
Reflecting on his connection with fans, Bergey stated in 2023, “I’ve always had a love affair with the fans of Philadelphia. I treated them with kindness and respect, knowing they would be there whether I was rising or falling in my career.”
Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie paid tribute to Bergey, noting the respect he earned throughout the league due to his relentless work ethic and tenacious playing style.
“Bill embodied the spirit of being an Eagle in every sense and continued to represent the organization positively in the community long after his playing career ended,” Lurie stated.
With a career total of 27 interceptions, highlighted by five during the impressive 1974 season, Bergey was among 60 candidates considered by the Pro Football Hall of Fame seniors committee this fall, but did not progress to the next selection phase.
His professional journey concluded in the 1980 season, where he played under coach Dick Vermeil and faced the Oakland Raiders in the Super Bowl. Bergey appeared in all 16 games that year, but ultimately retired due to ongoing issues with a knee injury.
“I always felt we were on the cusp of something great,” Bergey noted in 2015. “Even in those early years with Vermeil when victories were scarce, we could feel the change in intensity in our play. Dick’s influence was significant.”
Following his retirement, Bergey took on various roles in the Eagles’ radio broadcasts, staying connected to the team and its fans.
Renowned Eagles announcer Merrill Reese honored Bergey’s legacy on social media, stating, “Number 66 was one of the greatest players of all time. His love for his family, friends, and fans was unparalleled. May he rest in peace.”
Bergey, who recorded nearly 1,200 tackles during his seven seasons with the Eagles, was born on February 9, 1945, in South Dayton, New York. He was also involved in a concussion-related lawsuit against the NFL, seeking justice for retired players.
