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Gerald John Philbin (July 31, 1941 – June 25, 2025) was an American professional football player who played defensive end in the American Football League (AFL) and National Football League (NFL). He was a four-year starting lineup playing college football for the Buffalo Bulls, earning several honors including second-team All-American, Little All-American, and All-American Academic team." Buffalo President Clifford C. Furnas congratulating Gerry Philbin for his athletic accomplishments in achieving All-East Team for the fifth time," Clifford C. Furnas Collection - University at Buffalo Libraries Digital Collections. Drafted by both the Detroit Lions of the NFL and the New York Jets of the AFL in the third round of their respective 1964 drafts, he joined the Jets and became an immediate starter and perennial All-AFL selection at defensive end. He played stellar defense for them for nine seasons.
Philbin was selected as an AFL All-Star in 1968 and 1969. A ferocious pass-rusher, Philbin recorded quarterback sack of opposing quarterbacks in 1968, helping the Jets win the AFL championship. In Super Bowl III, Philbin anchored the Jets defense in limiting the Colts to seven points.
In 1973, he joined the Philadelphia Eagles for one season and finished his career in the short-lived World Football League as a member of the New York Stars in 1974 where he joined Super Bowl III alumni George Sauer, Jr, Randy Beverly, John Dockery, John Elliott, and Vito (Babe) Parilli. He was an All-WFL selection in 1974. Philbin was a member of the AFL All-Time Team.
Philbin died from dementia in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, on June 25, 2025, at the age of 83.
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