Elvin Bethea

Elvin Bethea is a Hall of Fame defensive end who spent his entire 16-season NFL career with the Houston Oilers (1968–1983). Renowned for his durability and dominance, he played in 210 games, including a streak of 135 consecutive appearances.

Bethea amassed 105 unofficial sacks, leading the team in this category six times. His standout season came in 1973 with 16 sacks, a franchise record. He earned eight Pro Bowl selections and was a two-time Second-team All-Pro.

Upon retirement, Bethea held franchise records for most seasons, games played, and sacks. His No. 65 jersey was retired by the Oilers, and he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2003.​

Bethea's Awards and Records

• 2× Second-team All-Pro (1975, 1979)
• 8× Pro Bowl (1969, 1971–1975, 1978, 1979)
• Titans/Oilers Ring of Honor
• Tennessee Titans No. 65 retired
• Texas Sports Hall of Fame
• North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame

NFL Records

• Most Games Played in Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans Franchise History (at retirement): 210 games
• Most Sacks in Houston Oilers History (unofficial): 105
• Most Sacks in a Single Season for Oilers (Franchise Record): 16 in 1973
• Most Consecutive Games Played by a Defensive Lineman (Franchise Record at retirement): 135
• First Defensive Lineman from an HBCU Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame
• One of the First Oilers Players to Have His Jersey Retired (No. 65)

NFL Teams

Houston Oilers (1968–1983)