Elvin Bethea is a former American football defensive end who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 16 seasons. He played college football at North Carolina A&T. Bethea was selected in the third round of the 1968 NFL Draft by the Houston Oilers.

Bethea was a six-time Pro Bowl selection and was named to the NFL's All-Decade Team of the 1970s. He was also named to the Oilers' All-Time Team in 1989. During his career, he was a three-time All-AFC selection and a two-time All-Pro selection. He was also named the Oilers' Defensive MVP in 1975.

Bethea was known for his durability, playing in 215 consecutive games during his career. He was also known for his pass rushing ability, recording 105.5 sacks during his career. He was also a key part of the Oilers' defense during their run to the 1979 AFC Championship Game.

Bethea was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2003. He was also inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2003. He was named to the NFL's 75th Anniversary All-Time Team in 1994.

Bethea's legacy is one of a hard-working, durable, and talented defensive end who was able to make an impact on the game. He was a key part of the Oilers' defense during their run to the 1979 AFC Championship Game and was named to the NFL's All-Decade Team of the 1970s. He is a member of both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the College Football Hall of Fame, and was named to the NFL's 75th Anniversary All-Time Team.

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