SAD END: Veteran NFL executive Bill Tobin, GM for Bears and Colts, dies at 83
Tobin also made a significant impact on NFL draft coverage when he publicly criticized Mel Kiper, a notable moment in television history. Bill Tobin, a longtime NFL executive, passed away at 83, as confirmed by the Cincinnati Bengals.
Tobin had been associated with the Bengals since 2003, serving as a scouting consultant for the player personnel department, which is now overseen by his son Duke.
Rest in peace, Bill Tobin, our GM from '94-96. Bill was a tough, old-time football man, starting as a player in the old AFL. He lived a magical life associated with the game he loved, and our league will miss him. My love and prayers for Bill's family 🙏 pic.twitter.com/I9IvJLPUbe
— Jim Irsay (@JimIrsay) April 19, 2024
Bengals president Mike Brown expressed his deep respect for Tobin, acknowledging his keen eye for talent and his invaluable contributions to player assessment.
Before joining the Bengals, Tobin had a distinguished career as a general manager for the Chicago Bears and the Indianapolis Colts, as well as a director of player personnel for the Detroit Lions. He notably drafted eight Hall of Famers during his tenure, including Marshall Faulk and Marvin Harrison.
Bill Tobin sits down with @mortreport
“Who in the hell is Mel Kiper?” – Bill Tobin
😂 pic.twitter.com/77IOC3QoKz— Old Time Football 🏈 (@Ol_TimeFootball) April 24, 2020
However, Tobin’s most memorable moment for NFL Draft enthusiasts came during the 1994 draft when he publicly challenged ESPN analyst Mel Kiper. Despite criticism for the Colts’ selection of linebacker Trev Alberts over quarterback Trent Dilfer, Tobin fiercely defended his decision, famously questioning Kiper’s credibility and expertise in a candid interview with ESPN’s Chris Mortensen. Tobin’s blunt remark, “Who the hell is Mel Kiper, anyway?” has since become a legendary quote in NFL Draft history, encapsulating his defiance against perceived criticism and authority in player evaluation.
“Tobin elaborated, stating that to his knowledge, the individual in question has never worn a jockstrap. Despite lacking experience as a coach, scout, or administrator, this person suddenly presents themselves as an expert, appearing in recent newspaper articles dictating draft picks. Tobin emphasized that they aren’t obligated to follow this individual’s suggestions, comparing their qualifications unfavorably to those of his neighbor, a postman without NFL season tickets. Kiper was one of many offering condolences to Tobin online.”
A sad day with the passing of Bill Tobin, an accomplished front office executive who made the NFL a better league during his decorated career. Kim and I send our sincerest condolences to his family and loved ones.
— Mel Kiper Jr. (@MelKiperESPN) April 19, 2024
Despite the widespread belief that the Colts should have replaced Jim Harbaugh with a younger quarterback, Tobin’s decision to retain the veteran appeared wise as Indianapolis made it to the AFC championship game as a wild card. Harbaugh continued to play for the Colts for two additional seasons, serving as a transitional figure for the organization before Peyton Manning, who was drafted by Bill Polian (Tobin’s successor), took over.
In contrast, Dilfer had a relatively unremarkable NFL career, despite winning a Super Bowl with the Baltimore Ravens. Alberts saw action in 29 games over three seasons with the Colts.