Phil Robertson, widely remembered for his role as the patriarch of “Duck Dynasty,” passed away on May 25 at the age of 79. The loss is deeply felt by the entertainment industry. However, the college football world is also mourning as they lost one of their own. Before his foray into the world of television and movies, Robertson found his footing in college football.

Growing up in Vivian, a small rural community in Louisiana, he emerged as an exceptionally gifted athlete. Despite the hardships he faced, including a lack of electricity and running water, his talent brought him to the brink of a promising NFL career. Ultimately, he chose to follow a different calling, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by many.

Phil Robertson was the quarterback at Louisiana Tech for two seasons in 1966 and 1967, starting ahead of Pro Football Hall of Fame and No. 1 overall pick Terry Bradshaw, who carries an esteemed record of winning four Super Bowls with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Robertson started 16 games before hanging up his boots in 1968 to pursue the other joys of life. He has reportedly been a freak of hunting and fishing. Post-football, the two hobbies have almost taken over his life. But deteriorating health got in the way. As per his son Jason Robertson’s report on the family podcast, Phil was suffering from the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. However, the cause of death is yet to be revealed officially.

“Thank you for the love and prayers of so many whose lives have been impacted by his life saved by grace, his bold faith, and by his desire to tell everyone who would listen the Good News of Jesus,” his family said in a statement. “We are grateful for his life on earth and will continue the legacy of love for God and love for others until we see him again.”

The football program where Robertson made his mark also reacted to the sad news. “We are saddened to learn of the passing of former LA Tech quarterback Phil Robertson,” Louisiana Tech football issued an official statement on social media on a gloomy Sunday evening. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the Robertson family during this time.” Louisiana’s statement on X included photos of their former QB. One photo featured Bradshaw and Robertson holding their jerseys. Terry wore No. 12 for the Bulldogs, while Phil wore the No. 10 jersey.

At a very young age, Robertson emerged as a multi-sport high school star (football, baseball, and track) at North Caddo High, earning all-state honors. At Louisiana Tech (1965–1967), Robertson completed 179 of 411 pass attempts for 2,237 yards and 12 touchdowns.

The “Duck Dynasty” bearded patriarch (TV show aired from 2012 to 2017) has left a plethora of memories to look back on. “Duck Dynasty,” has been the mouthpiece of the Robertson family and its successful business, Duck Commander, a Louisiana-based company that makes duck calls and other outdoor gear. The show became a cultural epitome, garnering millions of views on national television.

As far as his short-lived legacy in football is concerned, he has an unconventional path to follow, raising a lot of eyebrows.

Phil Robertson remains an unexplored gem of the football world 

Robertson came to Louisiana Tech and snatched the QB1 job from Bradshaw, who was one year younger than him. Many believe that the age factor played a role in Phil winning the job. But Bradshaw, the QB who had to wait in the wings for a year, didn’t refrain from taking a dig at his peer’s unconventional raw lifestyle and priorities.

“The quarterback playing ahead of me, Phil Robertson, loved hunting more than he loved football,” Bradshaw wrote in his 2001 book ‘It’s Only a Game’ via ESPN. “He’d come to practice directly from the woods, squirrel tails hanging out of his pockets, duck feathers on his clothes. Clearly he was a fine shot, so no one complained too much.”

His talent was beyond debate, indeed. E.J. Lewis, a defensive backs coach, once remarked, “He had a good presence in the pocket… that booger could chuck that football.” He garnered unbridled comparison with Joe Namath by Bradshaw for his ability to quick-release. He turned down NFL interest from the Washington Redskins, who offered $60,000 to stay true to his family TV show.

Phil had fought with his addiction to alcohol but got his way back to love, life, and faith through a strong devotion to Christianity. If he chose to continue with football, maybe the sky would be the limit. But he rather chose to remain as the tale of an unfulfilled legacy that the football world will breathe a sigh to when looking back!