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8. Elvin Bethea

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8. Elvin Bethea

Taken in the Third Round in 1968, Elvin Bethea generated colossal value for the Houston Oilers, the only team that the star from North Carolina A&T ever played for in his 210 Games as a pro.

The powerful Defensive End would prove to be one of the top players at his position in the 1970s, going to eight Pro Bowls and recording 105 (unofficial) Sacks for his team.  As good as Bethea was a pass-rushing, he was also a certifiable run stuffer, and thanks to his durability, he often did.  Bethea did not miss a game until his tenth season (due to a broken arm), and his leadership on and off the field was also widely known.  

The Oilers retired his number in the year he retired in 1983, and along with George Blanda, he was part of the first class of the Titans Ring of Honor in 1999.  Bethea entered the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2003.

The Bullet Points

  • Position: Defensive End
  • Acquired: Selected in the 3rd Round, 77th Overall in the NFL Draft 1/30/68.
  • Departed:

    Retired after the 1983 Season.

  • Games Played: 210
  • Notable Statistics:

    181 Games Started
    16 Fumble Recoveries
    42 Fumble Recovery Yards
    1 Fumble Recovery Touchdown
    105.0 Quarterback Sacks*
    100 Approximate Value

    8 Playoff Games
    7.0 Quarterback Sacks

    *Quarterback Sacks were calculated by Pro Football Reference from 1960 to 1981, and became an official stat in 1982.

  • Major Accolades and Awards:

    Second Team All-Pro (1975 & 1979)
    Pro Bowl (1969, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1978 & 1979)
    Most Fumble Recoveries (1972)

Last modified on Wednesday, 21 September 2022 21:31

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