Former Texas RB Chris Gilbert Dies at 79

Gilbert was a three-time All-Southwest Conference selection and consensus All-American in 1968.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Former Texas running back Chris Gilbert, who rushed for 1,000 yards in all three of his varsity seasons from 1966 to 1968 and ended his career as the school's all-time leading rusher, died Monday morning at the age of 79.

Why it matters

Gilbert was a standout player for the Longhorns in the late 1960s, helping build the foundation for Texas' national championship teams in 1969 and 1970. His passing marks the end of an era for one of college football's most storied programs.

The details

Gilbert, who attended Spring Branch High School in Houston, was a three-time All-Southwest Conference selection, the 1968 Southwest Conference player of the year, and a consensus All-American in 1968. He finished his career with 595 carries for 3,231 yards and 28 touchdowns recorded in 30 games. Gilbert played one year of professional football before entering private business.

  • Chris Gilbert died on Monday, February 9, 2026.
  • Gilbert was inducted into the UT Hall of Honor in 1978, the Texas High School Football Hall of Fame in 1990, and the College Football Hall of Fame in 1999.

The players

Chris Gilbert

A former Texas running back who rushed for 1,000 yards in all three of his varsity seasons from 1966 to 1968 and ended his career as the school's all-time leading rusher.

Steve Worster

A member of the three-headed attack in Texas' Wishbone offense in 1968 alongside Gilbert and Ted Koy.

Ted Koy

A member of the three-headed attack in Texas' Wishbone offense in 1968 alongside Gilbert and Steve Worster.

James Street

The quarterback who led Texas' Wishbone offense in 1968, which included Gilbert, Worster, and Koy.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

Chris Gilbert's passing marks the end of an era for one of college football's most storied programs. As a standout running back for the Longhorns in the late 1960s, Gilbert helped lay the groundwork for Texas' national championship teams in 1969 and 1970, cementing his legacy as a key figure in the program's history.