Philadelphia, PA — Bill Bergey, a formidable linebacker whose talent and determination left an indelible mark on the Philadelphia Eagles and helped transform the team into a Super Bowl competitor, passed away at 79 on Christmas Day. His death, attributed to oral cancer, concluded a valiant three-year struggle with the disease.
Bergey’s son Jake confirmed the somber news, sharing a heartfelt remembrance: “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.”
Born in South Dayton, New York, William E. Bergey excelled in sports at Arkansas State University before making his professional debut. His jersey was retired by the university in 1997, recognizing his outstanding collegiate career, and he also found a place in the university’s Sports Hall of Fame and ROTC Hall of Heroes.
Bergey’s professional career began when he was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in 1969. His rookie year accolades included the AFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. His career took an unusual turn in 1974 when he signed with the Florida Blazers of the World Football League, a move that resulted in legal challenges from the Bengals. Eventually, the Philadelphia Eagles acquired him, offering two first-round picks and a second-rounder, marking him as the highest-paid defensive player in football at the time.
During his tenure with the Eagles from 1974 to 1980, Bergey was a leader in tackles each season through 1978, evidencing his relentless defensive prowess. Among linebackers in the NFL, he ranks 10th in all-time interceptions, with a career total of 27, and he also recorded 18.5 sacks and 21 fumble recoveries. His exemplary performance earned him first-team All-Pro honors in consecutive years, a distinction he shares only with Chuck Bednarik among Eagles linebackers.
Despite a serious knee injury in 1979, Bergey returned with a vengeance in the following season, securing First-Team All-NFC honors from the Sporting News and playing a pivotal role in leading the Eagles to their inaugural Super Bowl appearance in 1981.
After hanging up his cleats, Bergey stayed connected to the Philadelphia area, residing in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania for half a century. He was a familiar voice in Eagles broadcasts as a color commentator, a role he filled for over two decades, and shared his expertise on the field while coaching football at Tatnall School in Greenville, Delaware.
Bergey’s commitment to his fellow athletes extended off the field as well, particularly prominent in his involvement with the NFL concussion lawsuit. He participated not for personal gain but to aid those grappling with the devastating aftermath of the sport’s harsh physical toll.
Battling oral cancer since 2021, Bergey found strength and inspiration from his encounters with fellow cancer survivor and former Buffalo Bills quarterback Jim Kelly. Despite his illness, he maintained his annual visits to Eagles training camp, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the sport and its community until his final days.
A memorial service for Bergey is scheduled for January 2, 2025, at Brandywine Valley Church in Wilmington, Delaware. His legacy survives through his wife Micky Kay, three sons, ten grandchildren, and two siblings. Bergey’s career honors include five Pro Bowl selections, three Eagles MVP awards, and inductions into four halls of fame, ensuring his storied career will be remembered by fans and peers alike.