Former NFL Defensive Tackle Oliver Gibson Passes Away at 53

Oliver Gibson, a former NFL defensive tackle, has died at the age of 53. His family and Notre Dame announced his passing on Tuesday.

The specific cause of his death has not yet been disclosed.

Gibson was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the fourth round of the 1995 NFL Draft. He played four seasons with the Steelers before moving on to the Cincinnati Bengals.

Following a nine-year career in the NFL, during which he made 243 tackles, logged 17.5 sacks, grabbed one interception, and recovered two fumbles, Gibson finished playing in 2003.

After hanging up his cleats, he transitioned into coaching. In 2014, he became the football coach at Romeoville High School in Illinois, his alma mater. He was also involved as an assistant basketball coach there.

The Romeoville High School community expressed their sorrow, stating, “RHS Football is saddened by the loss of RHS legend and former head football coach Oliver Gibson on the field. Rest in peace, former Spartan @Zqguno4, and our thoughts are with your family during this hard time.”

Notre Dame, where Gibson played, issued their condolences as well: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Oliver Gibson. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”

Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson, a former teammate, took to social media to remember Gibson, saying, “Rest in peace, Oliver Gibson ‘OG’.” His impact on the field and in life will surely be missed by many.