Former NFL Defensive Lineman Oliver Gibson Dies at 53

Oliver Gibson, a former NFL defensive tackle known for his toughness and leadership, has died at the age of 53. Drafted in the fourth round of the 1995 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers, Gibson played nine seasons in the NFL, including five with the Cincinnati Bengals, accumulating 243 tackles and 17.5 sacks over 133 games. He was recognized early in his career as USA Today's High School Defensive Player of the Year and starred at Notre Dame before turning professional. After retiring, Gibson returned to his hometown of Romeoville, Illinois, where he served as head football coach and assistant basketball coach at his alma mater high school, impacting many young athletes beyond the field. Tributes have poured in from former teammates, coaches, and the wider NFL and Notre Dame communities, highlighting his quiet leadership, consistency, and dedication both on and off the field. The cause of his death has not been publicly disclosed.