Gerry Philbin: Jets Legend Dies at 83
- gerry Philbin, a defensive end who played a vital role for the New York Jets during their 1968 Super Bowl championship season, has died at 83.
- Despite standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 245 pounds, Philbin proved a dominant force in the American Football League during the 1960s.
- Although sacks did not become an official NFL statistic until 1982,team records credit Philbin with 64.5 unofficial sacks, placing him fourth in Jets history.
Gerry Philbin, a defensive end and vital contributor to the New York Jets‘ 1968 Super Bowl victory, has passed away at 83. This jets legend was a two-time All-AFL selection and a member of the all-time AFL team,solidifying his place in football history. His impressive career included 64.5 unofficial sacks, ranking him among the Jets’ top defensive players. Philbin’s leadership and impact on the team were celebrated when he was inducted into the Jets’ Ring of Honor in 2011. News Directory 3 remembers his legacy. Learn about the humorous anecdotes and lasting impact of this NFL icon. Discover what’s next …
Gerry Philbin, Jets Super Bowl Champion, Dies at 83
Updated June 27, 2025
gerry Philbin, a defensive end who played a vital role for the New York Jets during their 1968 Super Bowl championship season, has died at 83. His family confirmed the death, noting dementia as the cause.
Despite standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 245 pounds, Philbin proved a dominant force in the American Football League during the 1960s. He earned two All-AFL selections and a spot on the all-time AFL team. In 2011, the Jets inducted him into their Ring of Honor, recognizing his significant contributions.
Although sacks did not become an official NFL statistic until 1982,team records credit Philbin with 64.5 unofficial sacks, placing him fourth in Jets history. He achieved double-digit sack totals in four consecutive seasons, including a remarkable 19 sacks in 1968.
Former teammate John Schmitt remembered Philbin as a key leader. “gerry was a born leader,” Schmitt said. “He was one of four or five true leaders on our Super Bowl team. He was damn tough, and he was an all-world player.”
Schmitt also recounted a humorous anecdote from the 1968 season. Following a game where quarterback Joe Namath threw five interceptions against the Buffalo Bills, Philbin quipped to Namath, “hey, Joe, we’re wearing green this week,” referencing the color of the Jets’ jerseys. Schmitt said Namath found the joke hilarious, a story Namath has often shared.
Philbin, a Pawtucket, R.I., native, excelled at the University of Buffalo. The Jets selected him in the third round of the 1964 AFL draft. Concurrently, the Detroit Lions chose him in the third round of the NFL draft.
Opting for the AFL, philbin played 110 games over nine seasons. He also played for the Philadelphia eagles in 1973 and concluded his career with the New York Stars of the World Football League in 1974. His role as a defensive leader is still remembered by fans.
What’s next
The New York Jets association is expected to release a statement soon, honoring Philbin’s legacy and contributions to the team’s history.