Farewell to the “Fierce” and Legendary “Bob Avellini”
The football world mourns the passing of Bob Avellini, a revered Chicago Bears quarterback who graced the gridiron for a remarkable nine seasons. At the age of 70, Avellini succumbed to a courageous battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy of determination and leadership.
A Spirited Competitor
The Bears, in a heartfelt statement, hailed Avellini as “one-of-a-kind” and a “fierce and tough competitor.” His relentless spirit was instrumental in带领ing the team to their first postseason appearance in 14 years. The team’s tribute aptly acknowledged his significant impact on the organization and the hearts of fans, stating, “He will be missed.”
All-Star Season: 1977
The year 1977 marked a pivotal point in Avellini’s career, as he partnered with Hall of Fame running back Walter Payton to create an unforgettable season. Payton’s league-leading 1,852 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns propelled the offense, while Avellini contributed a remarkable 2,004 passing yards, 154 completions, and 11 touchdowns over 14 games.
Breaking a Drought
The 1977 season witnessed the Bears breaking their 14-year playoff drought, a testament to the team’s resilience and Avellini’s leadership. However, their postseason journey ended with a disheartening 37-7 loss to the Dallas Cowboys, with Avellini’s performance marked by four interceptions.
Career Highlights
Throughout his regular season career, Avellini compiled an impressive 23-27 record, amassing 7,111 passing yards and 33 touchdowns in 73 games.
A New York Native
Bob Avellini, a native of Queens, New York City, was selected by the Bears in the sixth round of the 1975 NFL Draft out of the University of Maryland. His arrival coincided with the emergence of Walter Payton, solidifying a formidable partnership that would forever be etched in the annals of Bears history.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
