Farewell to Gerry Philbin
Remembering a Super Bowl Champion and Beloved Jet
We say goodbye to Gerry Philbin, a cornerstone of the New York Jets and a fierce competitor who left an indelible mark on the game. Philbin joined the Jets in 1964 as a 230-pound defensive end out of Buffalo—considered undersized by pro standards, but what he lacked in size, he made up for with grit, determination, and heart.
Over the course of nine seasons with the Jets, Philbin built a reputation as one of the most relentless pass rushers of his era. He earned two All-Pro selections and was a key figure in the team’s historic Super Bowl III victory over the Baltimore Colts. His toughness on the field and consistency in performance made him not just respected—but revered.
Teammates remember him not only as a great player but also as a great man. Center John Schmitt once said of Philbin, “He was the kind of guy you wanted next to you in the trenches—quiet, dependable, and fierce. He never looked for credit, but he always delivered.”
Philbin’s career with the Jets ended after the 1972 season, but his legacy remained firmly intact. In many ways, he represented the soul of that Super Bowl-winning team: blue-collar, unshakable, and united in purpose.
As we bid farewell to Gerry Philbin, we remember more than just a football player. We honor a champion, a teammate, and a Jet through and through. His legacy lives on in the memories of those who watched him play and those lucky enough to play beside him.
