Elvin Bethea
Elvin Bethea played 16 seasons with the Houston Oilers from 1968-1983. Originally drafted as an offensive lineman out of North Carolina A&T, he developed into one of the NFL's premier defensive ends. At 6'3 and 285 lbs. Bethea was known for his great quickness, variety of moves and relentless pursuit of opposing offenses. The franchise's all-time leader for sacks in a season (16) and career (105). Bethea was selected to eight Pro Bowls and helped the Oilers advance to AFC Championship games in 1978 & 1979. When he retired he held franchise records for most seasons (16), most career regular season games played (210) and consecutive regular season games (135). The Houston Oilers retired Bethea's number 65 jersey in 1983. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio on August. 3, 2003 and the Texas Sports Hall of Fame in 2003.
