Legendary Cincinnati Bengals Tight End Bob Trumpy Dies
Legendary Cincinnati Bengals tight end Bob Trumpy has passed away at the age of 80. His legacy in both professional football and broadcasting is immeasurable.
Bob Trumpy’s NFL Career
Bob Trumpy was drafted in the 12th round as the 301st overall pick in the 1968 NFL Draft. He played a remarkable 10 seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals. During his time on the field, he recorded:
- 298 receptions
- 4,600 receiving yards
- 35 touchdowns
A Unique Tight End
Trumpy was known for his incredible speed and ability to navigate complex defenses. Bengals president and owner Mike Brown highlighted Trumpy’s unmatched skills as a tight end, emphasizing his ability to outrun linebackers and challenge safeties. His unique playing style helped revolutionize the west coast offense during his era.
A Broadcasting Pioneer
After retiring from football, Trumpy transitioned to broadcasting, carving out a prominent career. He hosted “Sports Talk” on Cincinnati’s 700 WLW, gaining local and national recognition. His contributions to sports radio set the stage for future Bengals broadcasters like Dave Lapham and Cris Collinsworth.
Trumpy’s Legacy
Despite his impressive career, Trumpy was not inducted into the Bengals Ring of Honor, a decision that many fans find surprising. His first receiving touchdown, a 58-yarder, occurred on September 15, 1968, when the Bengals faced the Denver Broncos at Nippert Stadium.
Bengals legend Dave Lapham described Trumpy as a “matchup nightmare,” praising his quickness and reliability. He remembered Trumpy as a mentor who taught valuable lessons in both sports and broadcasting.
Bob Trumpy’s influence remains felt throughout Cincinnati and in the world of sports. He will be remembered for both his achievements on the field and his significant contributions to sports broadcasting.
The Cincinnati Bengals, along with fans, extend their condolences to the Trumpy family during this difficult time. His impact will echo through The Jungle for years to come.
