Billy Driber, Long-time NFL Films Head of Production, Dies at 53

Bill Driber, long-time head of production for NFL Films, lost his battle with cancer on Nov. 5 at the age of 53. He worked at NFL Films for 28 years and is survived by his wife, Sherry, and son, Wil.

“The NFL lost a good one this week,” says Glenn Adamo, VP of media operations, NFL. “The beloved Billy is best remembered for his sense of humor. Even at a time when Coach Bill Parcells was screaming at his crew on the sidelines, he still found humor in it.”

Billy Driber, head of production for NFL Films, with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell

Driber broke new ground when he began his career in 1984 at NFL Films: he was the very first intern to work for the organization. His undeniable grit and talent propelled him rapidly through the ranks, first as camera operator, then as a full-fledged executive. During his career, he would capture some of the most indelible moments of the past three decades, including Don Shula’s being hoisted as the winningest coach in NFL history with the Miami Dolphins and the sack of Tom Brady in a snowy 2001 AFC Divisional playoff game that was the impetus for the “tuck rule.”

“Billy D wasn’t just a talent; he was an original and one of the NFL Family’s best,” says Adamo. “He will be sorely missed by all of us here at NFL Films and the league.”