Former NFL Star and Doctor Dave Gallagher Passes Away at 73

Dave Gallagher, a former defensive tackle for the New York Giants and a standout college football player, has died at the age of 73. His passing occurred on January 20 at his home in Columbus, Indiana, and was announced in his online obituary published on August 4. The cause of death remains undisclosed.

Early Life and College Career

Gallagher was born with a keen interest in medicine, inspired by his father, an orthopedic surgeon. "It wasn’t so much that I knew what a doctor did, it was just that I admired my father so much,” Gallagher reflected in a past interview. This passion drove him to excel academically and athletically at the University of Michigan.

Michigan Wolverines Highlights

• Playing Years: 1971–1974
• Record: 40-3-1, including three consecutive Big Ten titles
• Awards:
  • 1973 Consensus First-Team All-American
  • Three-time Academic All-Big Ten member
• Induction: Gallagher was inducted into Michigan’s Hall of Honor in 2018.

Choosing Michigan

When selecting a college, Gallagher narrowed his choices to institutions with exceptional medical schools, including Duke and Northwestern. "Why did I choose Michigan? For one thing, it was hard for anyone to say ‘No’ to Coach [Bo] Schembechler," he noted.

NFL Career

Gallagher was drafted in the first round of the 1974 NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears, one pick ahead of Hall of Fame receiver Lynn Swann. After a promising rookie season, where he started 11 games, Gallagher was traded to the New York Giants.

Struggles and Transition

Gallagher’s transition to the Giants was marked by challenges, including being benched. “To bench me and effectively end my career… that’s stupid,” he expressed in a candid 1977 interview with the New York Times.

Career Highlights with the Giants:

• Sack Tally: Notably sacked Eagles quarterback Mike Boryla twice in his first game.
• Position Change: His shift from left end to left tackle resulted in struggles, as he was undersized for the position.

Gallagher battled through a difficult 1976 season, contributing to an overall record of 3-11. He reflected, “Making a 43-man roster isn’t enough, especially on a team that’s 3-11. I think if the Giants had had a better year, I’d be coming back."

Departure from Football

Feeling unfulfilled in the NFL, Gallagher had included a clause in his rookie contract that allowed the team to fund two semesters of medical school. He considered his time in professional football an "interlude" before ultimately returning to medicine. After stints with the Lions from 1978-1979, Gallagher retired from football at just 27.

Medical Career and Legacy

After retiring, Gallagher embarked on a successful career as an orthopedic surgeon with Southern Indiana Orthopedics. His commitment to the community extended beyond medicine; he also coached youth football, sharing his love for the game and mentoring young players.

“I found myself doodling plays on napkins, having more X’s and O’s than I had 4th-grade players,” Gallagher humorously remarked about his coaching experiences. "Football is a great way to mentor kids."

Gallagher’s Lasting Impact

Dave Gallagher is remembered not only for his contributions to football but also for his commitment to medicine and community mentorship.

Survived By

He leaves behind his former wife Carole, two children, five grandchildren, and a brother. A service to honor Gallagher’s life will take place on August 19.

For more information on Gallagher’s achievements, you can explore his time at the University of Michigan and the legacy he left behind in the NFL.