Roman Gabriel, the former NFL MVP and College Football Hall of Fame inductee, passed away at the age of 83. Gabriel was a standout quarterback at North Carolina State, where he became the first ACC quarterback to throw for 1,000 yards in a season. He was a two-time player of the year in the ACC and went on to be the No. 2 overall draft pick by the Los Angeles Rams. Gabriel played for the Rams from 1962-72 and the Philadelphia Eagles from 1973-77, earning Pro Bowl honors four times. He finished his career with 22,223 passing yards and 154 touchdowns with the Rams, leading the franchise as its career passing leader.
In addition to his football career, Gabriel also dabbled in acting, appearing in projects such as the 1968 film “Skidoo” with Jackie Gleason and the 1969 film “The Undefeated” starring John Wayne and Rock Hudson. His success on and off the field earned him a place in the College Football Hall of Fame in 1989. Gabriel’s son, Roman III, announced his father’s passing on social media, noting that he passed away peacefully at home of natural causes. Gabriel’s legacy as a pioneering quarterback in the ACC and a successful NFL player will be remembered by fans of the game for generations to come.
Gabriel’s impact on the game of football extended beyond his playing career, as he paved the way for future generations of quarterbacks with his accomplishments at N.C. State and in the NFL. His ability to throw for 1,000 yards in a season at a time when passing offenses were not as prevalent as they are today was a testament to his skill and talent as a quarterback. Gabriel’s MVP season in 1969, where he threw for over 2,500 yards and 24 touchdowns, solidified his place as one of the premier quarterbacks of his era.
Throughout his career, Gabriel demonstrated a level of excellence and professionalism that earned him the respect of his teammates, opponents, and fans alike. His leadership on the field, coupled with his skill as a passer, made him a formidable force in the NFL during his time with the Rams and Eagles. Gabriel’s induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1989 was a fitting tribute to his contributions to the game of football and solidified his place among the all-time greats of the sport.
As news of Gabriel’s passing spread, tributes poured in from fans, friends, and former teammates, all honoring his legacy as a trailblazing quarterback in college and the NFL. His impact on the game will be felt for years to come, as he helped to redefine the quarterback position with his passing prowess and leadership abilities. Gabriel’s influence on the sport, both on and off the field, cements his place as a football legend and a true icon of the game. The NFL and the football community at large mourn the loss of one of the game’s greats, but his memory will live on through the countless lives he touched during his illustrious career.
