Prayers for Steelers and Bengals star after his death is announced aged 53

FORMER Pittsburgh Steelers and Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Oliver Gibson has died at 53 years old.

Gibson was a nine-year NFL veteran after being drafted in 1995.

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Former Steeler and Bengal Oliver Gibson has died at 53 years old[/caption]

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Gibson played his college football at Notre Dame[/caption]

Gibson was drafted in the fourth round of the 1995 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Before joining the Steelers, he played his college football at Notre Dame, who confirmed his death on Monday.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Oliver Gibson,” the university wrote on social media.

“We send our condolences to his family and friends.”

Gibson spent the first four years of his career with the Steelers before spending the rest of his time with the Cincinnati Bengals.

His former teammate in Cincinnati, Chad Johnson, was one of many former players to share tributes.

“R.I.P. Oliver Gibson ‘OG,’” he wrote.

Johnson also posted a picture of himself playing alongside Gibson with the message.

Gibson was not a starting player in Pittsburgh, but became a standout defensive tackle with the Bengals.

He played 73 out of 80 regular-season games in his time in Cincinnati, starting 57 of those games.

Gibson collected 17.5 sacks, 37 tackles for loss, and 243 total tackles over his nine year career.

After retiring, he started a career in broadcasting.

Fans shared an outpouring of support for Gibson and his family on social media after his passing.

“RIP big OG,” one fan said.

“He was a great man… Passing too young,” another fan said.

“May his soul rest in peace,” a third fan said.

“OG was ALWAYS looking out for his guys!” a fourth fan said.

“Rest in peace,” a fifth fan said.