Former Texas Star Running Back Chris Gilbert Dies at 79

Gilbert was a standout at Spring Branch High School before a decorated Longhorns career.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Chris Gilbert, a former All-American running back for the University of Texas Longhorns, has died at the age of 79. Gilbert was a standout high school player at Spring Branch High School before going on to a decorated college career, becoming the first player in NCAA history to rush for over 1,000 yards in three consecutive seasons.

Why it matters

Gilbert is considered one of the greatest running backs in Texas Longhorns history, ushering in the team's successful wishbone era in the late 1960s and early 1970s. His passing marks the end of an era for a legendary college football player who left a lasting impact on the sport.

The details

During his time at Texas, Gilbert became the first college player to rush for more than 1,000 yards in three straight seasons. He was a three-time All-Southwest Conference honoree and earned All-American status in 1970. Gilbert was also the first Texas player to be chosen as the team MVP for three years in a row. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1999.

  • Gilbert played for Spring Branch High School from 1962-1964, making the state playoffs three straight years.
  • Gilbert played for the University of Texas from 1967-1970.

The players

Chris Gilbert

A former All-American running back who played for the University of Texas Longhorns, considered one of the best running backs in school history.

Bill Bradley

A Longhorn great and close friend of Gilbert's, who called him 'the best running back who ever played at the university.'

Billy Dale

A former teammate of Gilbert's who was also a running back at Texas.

Darrell Royal

The head coach of the Texas Longhorns during Gilbert's playing career.

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What they’re saying

“He was such a smooth runner. One of my favorite quotes from Coach (Darrell) Royal was when we watched the game film and watched Chris make a cut, it was like taking two or three frames out of the film and splice them together.”

— Billy Dale, Former Texas Running Back (Houston Chronicle)

“He was the best running back who ever played at the university.”

— Bill Bradley, Longhorn Great (Houston Chronicle)

The takeaway

Chris Gilbert's passing marks the end of an era for one of the greatest running backs in Texas Longhorns history. His record-breaking career and induction into the College Football Hall of Fame cemented his legacy as an all-time great, and his smooth running style and impact on the wishbone offense left a lasting impression on the sport.