Wow, I am so glad I am doing this countdown of players, because I can't say I knew about former Oilers' defensive end Elvin Bethea! I'm not proud to say that, I should know my Titans history better. After this countdown is complete, I am sure I will have a much better understanding of the team's history.
Elvin Beethea is a franchise legend, a Hall of Famer! He was drafted by the Oilers in 1968, and the man didn't miss a game for NINE years! Talk about a heck of a draft pick!
Bethea spent his entire sixteen year career, from 1968-1983, with the Oilers.
Elvin's career stats/accolades are pretty freaking legit:
- NFL Hall of Famer
- Titans/Oilers Ring of Honor
- Titans Number 65 Retired
- Franchise Record 105 Career Sacks (unofficial)
- Career High 16 Sacks in 1973 (Franchise Record) (unofficial)
- 14.5 Sacks in 1969 + 1976
- 6x Seasons with Double Digit Sacks
- 4x Second-Team All-Pro
- 8x Pro Bowls
- In BOTH Texas and North Carolina Sports Halls of Fame!
I mean, this is a ridiculously awesome resume! Titans fans need to keep this history alive. To some it's awkward/confusing to keep track of former Oilers-Titans but to that I say, who the heck cares! I think honoring the old players and legends makes being a Titans fan more fun. Plus, when the team left Houston, the entire roster moved to Nashville. AND they were the Tennessee Oilers for two seasons!
Anyway, I am just so happy to learn about a franchise legend like this. Never realized not a single Titan has ever worn 65! Amazing.
A very interesting interview breaking down past Oilers teams and rivalries!
Src
Hopefully the Titans can get a ring while Elvin is still with us!
