Bob Avellini Death: Former Chicago Bears Quarterback, Dies At 70
Bob Avellini, the former Chicago Bears quarterback who played alongside Hall of Fame running back Walter Payton, passed away on Saturday at the age of 70. Avellini, who battled cancer, was a key member of the Bears team that reached the playoffs in 1977.
I. Bob Avellini: A Quarterback’s Journey
Early Life and Football Beginnings
Bob Avellini’s journey began in New York, where he was born and raised. Football became his passion from a young age, and he excelled at the sport in high school.
With his impressive skills on the field, Avellini earned a scholarship to the University of Maryland, where he continued to shine as a quarterback. His talent and dedication caught the attention of the Chicago Bears, who drafted him in the sixth round of the 1975 NFL Draft.
Joining the Chicago Bears
| Year | Games Played | Passing Yards | Touchdowns | Interceptions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1975 | 1 | 14 | 0 | 0 |
| 1976 | 12 | 1,519 | 5 | 11 |
| 1977 | 14 | 2,004 | 11 | 18 |
Avellini joined the Bears at an exciting time, as the team was on the rise with a young and talented roster. He quickly became a valuable member of the squad, serving as a backup quarterback to the legendary Jim McMahon.
In 1977, Avellini had his breakout season, leading the Bears to a 9-5 record and a playoff berth. He formed a dynamic duo with Hall of Fame running back Walter Payton, and together they carried the Bears’ offense.
II. Early Life and Career
Bob Avellini was born in New York and raised on Long Island. He was a natural athlete, excelling in football, basketball, and baseball. In high school, he was a star quarterback, leading his team to a league championship.
Avellini’s talent on the gridiron earned him a scholarship to the University of Maryland. He played quarterback for the Terrapins and set several school records. In his senior year, he led Maryland to a bowl game victory.
Avellini was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the sixth round of the 1975 NFL Draft. He quickly became a valuable member of the team, serving as a backup quarterback to the legendary Jim McMahon.
III. The 1977 Season: A Career Highlight
A Dynamic Duo Takes the Field
The 1977 season was a defining moment in Bob Avellini’s career. He shared the quarterback duties with the legendary Jim McMahon, forming a dynamic duo that led the Bears to a 9-5 record and a playoff berth. The pair complemented each other perfectly, with Avellini’s strong arm and accurate passing combining with McMahon’s mobility and scrambling ability. They kept opposing defenses on their toes, never knowing who would be the one to strike next.
A Record-Breaking Year
Avellini’s individual performance in 1977 was nothing short of remarkable. He set career highs in passing yards (2,004) and touchdowns (11), while also throwing for 18 interceptions. His ability to spread the ball around and connect with a variety of receivers made the Bears’ offense one of the most potent in the league. He was a true leader on and off the field, inspiring his teammates to play their best.
- Career high in passing yards: 2,004
- Career high in touchdowns: 11
- Led the Bears to a 9-5 record and a playoff berth
IV. Final Thought
Bob Avellini will be remembered as a talented quarterback and a dedicated teammate. His contributions to the Chicago Bears and the game of football will not be forgotten.
