Philadelphia Eagles’ Hall of Fame linebacker, Bill Bergey, renowned for his game-changing defensive strategies that elevated the team to Super Bowl contention, passed away on Christmas Day 2024, following a three-year struggle with oral cancer. He was 79.
Jake Bergey, his son, announced the sad news, stating, “After a long, hard three-year battle, Dad lost his fight with Cancer. The best father, friend, grandfather, football player, and outright great person in this world. I will truly miss him. Love you, Dad.”
Originally from South Dayton, New York, William E. Bergey was a prominent figure at Arkansas State University, his alma mater which retired his jersey in 1997. He was honored with induction into the university’s Sports Hall of Fame and ROTC Hall of Heroes.
Bergey’s professional football career began when the Cincinnati Bengals drafted him in the 1969 NFL/AFL Draft. After being recognized as the AFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, he made news by joining the World Football League’s Florida Blazers in 1974, leading to a lawsuit from the Bengals. When the Blazers failed to compensate him, the Eagles procured him in exchange for two first-round picks and a second-rounder, making him the highest-paid defensive player in professional football.
Bergey’s contribution to the Eagles was significant and immediate. From 1974 to 1978, he led the team in tackles every season. His 27 career interceptions place him 10th among NFL linebackers, and he accumulated 18.5 sacks and 21 fumble recoveries, including a league-high six in 1975. He and Chuck Bednarik are the only two Eagles linebackers to earn first-team All-Pro honors in consecutive years (1974-75).
In spite of a severe knee injury in 1979, Bergey returned to the field for the 1980 season through intensive rehabilitation. He earned First-Team All-NFC honors from the Sporting News and was instrumental in guiding the Eagles to their first Super Bowl in 1981.
Following his retirement, Bergey continued to have strong ties with Philadelphia, living in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania for 50 years with his wife, Micky. He spent over 20 years as a commentator and analyst for Eagles broadcasts while also coaching football at the Tatnall School in Greenville, Delaware.
Bergey also took a prominent role in the NFL concussion lawsuit, not for personal benefit, but to advocate for affected players. “It’s not about the money with me, but it’s about these poor people who have had so much trouble with the concussions, with the dementia,” he stated to a local media outlet.
After being diagnosed with oral cancer in 2021, Bergey drew inspiration from fellow cancer survivor Jim Kelly, the former Buffalo Bills quarterback. He made it a point to visit the Eagles training camp each summer until his death.
A memorial service has been scheduled for 9:00 am on Thursday, January 2, 2025, at Brandywine Valley Church, Wilmington, Delaware. He leaves behind his wife Micky Kay, three sons, ten grandchildren, and two siblings.
Bergey’s illustrious career includes five Pro Bowl selections, three Eagles MVP awards, and induction into four halls of fame: the Eagles Hall of Fame, Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame, Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame, and Chautauqua Sports Hall of Fame.
