Beloved New England Patriots Great Has Died
This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.
Former New England Patriots linebacker Steve Zabel, one of football’s last successful two-way players, has died at the age of 78. The NFLPA Former Players announced his death on social media. Officials have not shared a cause of death. Moreover, it’s really been a tough year for former NFL players, as many of them have passed away suddenly.
Zabel built his name in college football before enjoying a 10-year NFL career. The Minneapolis native starred at Oklahoma under coach Chuck Fairbanks, where he played on both offense and defense. His rare ability to contribute on both sides of the ball made him one of the most unique players of his era.
The Philadelphia Eagles selected Zabel with the sixth overall pick in the 1970 NFL Draft. He spent five seasons with the Eagles before joining the Patriots. He finished his NFL career with one season for the Baltimore Colts before retiring.
Zabel Got A New Role In The NFL
Zabel played tight end during his college career and earned Second-Team All-American honors in 1968. That same season, he also stepped in at defensive end and helped Oklahoma finish the year with six straight wins and the Big Eight Championship.
Looking back on that decision during a 2021 interview with the Eagles, Zabel recalled how Fairbanks approached him.
“Chuck Fairbanks called me in his office and said, ‘Steve, we’ve proven we can’t outscore people. We want you to play defensive end as well as tight end and see if we can’t win some games,’” Zabel said.
He added, “For me, it was a great transition. I played both ways and punted, and we won our last six games in a row and won the Big Eight Championship.”
We mourn the loss of former longtime NFLPA Former Player Oklahoma Chapter President, Steve Zabel. Known for his tenacity and grit at the college and professional level, Steve’s passion for the game and for his brothers who played alongside him will always be remembered. Sending… pic.twitter.com/5aYiZAQk0P
— NFLPA Former Players (@NFLPAFmrPlayers) June 26, 2026
Interestingly, Zabel also opened his NFL journey as a tight end. He started eight games as a rookie and caught one touchdown in 14 appearances. After his first season, the Eagles decided his future belonged on defense. He moved to outside linebacker and stayed there for the rest of his career.
His years in New England brought more recognition. The Patriots later named him to their Team of the 1970s. Before turning pro, he also earned two First-Team All-Big Eight selections during his outstanding college career.
After retirement, Zabel turned down college coaching opportunities and chose to coach at the high school level instead. He also created several charitable programs in Oklahoma City. He leaves behind his wife, three children, several grandchildren, and a great-grandchild.
