60 Heroes: Sacrificing for Future Gain

Selected by the Houston Oilers in the 1968 NFL Draft, Elvin Bethea was an active supporter of the NFLPA throughout his 14-year career.  Just a few years after joining the Oilers, the club he would spend his entire career with, Bethea became the team’s Player Rep.  The eight-time Pro Bowler took on this role, along with Executive Committee responsibilities later in his career, for a full decade. 

Bethea became a diligent member of the union during an important time in NFLPA history.  In his third year as a Player Rep, when the union charged the owners with 15 unfair labor practices prior to the 1974 strike, Bethea testified in court on behalf of the NFLPA.  The Pro Football Hall of Famer soon became a leader for the union, acting as a member of the Executive Committee.  He and his fellow members fought for free agency in 1974-77, battling to end the Rozelle Rule, and fought again for a revenue-sharing plan in 1982.  

During the 1982 strike, the veteran was a strong voice for his fellow players. He led his team in a pre-game handshake between players on the opposing team, showing owners the solidarity among players in their fight for fair rights and free agency.  He battled for his fellow players’ rights at the CBA negotiations and led them through what was at times a frustrating work stoppage.  Bethea retired the year after the strike, leaving many new benefits for players as part of his legacy.