Bob Trumpy Cause of Death: Bengals Legend Dies Peacefully at 80

Bob Trumpy, the former Cincinnati Bengals tight end and celebrated sports broadcaster, has died at the age of 80. The Bengals confirmed the news on Sunday, noting that Trumpy passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by family. While the organization announced his passing, they did not reveal his cause of death.

Trumpy’s death marks the loss of one of the most influential figures in Bengals history — both on and off the field. His combination of athleticism, personality, and voice helped shape the early identity of the franchise and the landscape of sports broadcasting in America.

Bob Trumpy’s Career and Legacy

Bob Trumpy was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in 1968 and went on to play ten seasons with the team until 1977. Over that period, he recorded nearly 300 receptions, 4,600 yards, and 35 touchdowns — statistics that placed him among the best tight ends of his era.

He was selected to four Pro Bowls and quickly became known for his rare combination of speed and agility, often compared to that of a wide receiver. Bengals President Mike Brown praised Trumpy in a statement, describing him as “an exceptional and rare tight end who could get downfield and split zone coverages.”

After retiring from football, Trumpy transitioned into broadcasting, beginning with NBC Sports, where he covered NFL games, golf tournaments, and even the Olympics. Locally, he hosted talk shows on WCKY-AM and WLW-AM, earning the nickname “Godfather of Sports Talk Radio.”

In 2014, Trumpy was honored with the Pete Rozelle Radio-Television Award by the Pro Football Hall of Fame, recognizing his outstanding contributions to sports broadcasting.

Tributes Pour In After His Passing

Following the announcement of his death, tributes flooded social media from fans, fellow broadcasters, and former players. Many remembered Trumpy not just as a talented athlete, but as a pioneer who gave personality and intelligence to sports talk radio.

One fan wrote that Trumpy “was the father of sports talk and NBC Sports… He spoke truth to power and will be sorely missed.” Another post highlighted the sadness that he may not have lived to see his induction into the Bengals Ring of Honor, calling him “one of the most important voices in Cincinnati sports history.”

Remembering a Bengals Original

Trumpy’s influence extended far beyond his statistics. His approach to football and media defined him as a multi-dimensional figure in American sports culture. He bridged generations — first as a game-changing athlete and later as a trusted broadcaster and commentator.

Though the Bengals and Trumpy’s family have not disclosed his cause of death, his peaceful passing and the legacy he leaves behind continue to resonate deeply with fans and colleagues alike.

Bob Trumpy’s life and career remain an enduring testament to dedication, innovation, and the deep connection between athlete and community.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What was Bob Trumpy’s cause of death?

The cause of death has not been publicly disclosed by the Bengals or his family. He passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by family.

Q2: When did Bob Trumpy die?

The Bengals confirmed his death on Sunday, November 2, 2025.

Q3: What was Bob Trumpy known for?

He was a four-time Pro Bowl tight end for the Bengals and later a national broadcaster with NBC Sports, covering NFL, golf, and the Olympics.

Q4: Did Bob Trumpy receive any awards?

Yes, he received the Pete Rozelle Radio-Television Award from the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2014 for excellence in sports broadcasting.

Q5: How are fans remembering Bob Trumpy?

Fans and colleagues have described him as a trailblazer who helped shape both Bengals history and modern sports media.