Philbin was one of the most important defensive cogs on the New York Jets’ legendary Super Bowl-winning team of 1968. He died at 83. Philbin’s impact on the team cannot be overstated. His remarkable career in professional football continues to inspire and affect positive change in the sport.
Philbin was born in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. After demonstrating his athletic prowess at the University of Buffalo, he went on to a professional career that spanned almost ten years. He appeared in 110 games in nine seasons in the American Football League (AFL), mostly with the Jets. Philbin carved out his legacy as the era’s most formidable defensive force, garnering recognition that would ensure him a long-lasting legacy.
Philbin’s numbers illustrate how strong of a season he had. And he averaged more than 12 double-digit sacks per season over four seasons, topping out with a mind-numbing total of 19 sacks in 1968! His performance that year was instrumental in leading the Jets to their first and only Super Bowl victory, where they triumphed over the Baltimore Colts.
Philbin’s ability on the field earned him fame, as he was elected twice to the All-AFL team. More recently, he was chosen as a member of the all-time AFL team. He measured in at only 6-foot-2 and 245 pounds. With the help of his relentless tenacity and skill, he went on to unofficially tally 64.5 sacks, ranking him fourth all-time in Jets history.
In acknowledgement of his contributions to the franchise, Philbin was inducted into the Jets’ Ring of Honor in 2011. Today, his influence can still be felt by fans and players as they celebrate what he brought to baseball.
Philbin’s contributions to the Jets’ career ended with them. He’d become the first native-born Philadelphian to play for the Philadelphia Eagles in 1973, then moved over to the New York Stars of the World Football League in 1974.
His love of life and people came across in off-the-field interactions. One memorable quote captures his spirit:
“Hey, Joe, we’re wearing green this week.” – Gerry Philbin
The football world is in shock and grief with the loss of such a gifted young life. He influenced an era in professional football’s history. His legacy of accomplishments for the Jets and the AFL will be long cherished by fans, players, and historians.
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