John Gillen

John Francis Gillen Sr. (born November 5, 1958) is an American former professional football player who was a linebacker for the St. Louis Cardinals and New England Patriots of the National Football League (NFL), as well as the Chicago Blitz and the Arizona Outlaws of the United States Football League (USFL). He played college football for the Illinois Fighting Illini.

Early life Gillen was born in Arlington Heights, Illinois, and attended St. Viator High School,

College years From 1977 to 1981, Gillen was a starter at middle linebacker for the Illinois Fighting Illini. He led the team in tackles for three years and was the defensive captain for two. In 1980, he received All-Big Ten honors and was voted the most valuable defensive player at Illinois. He played in the 1981 Senior Bowl. During the 1981 season, Gillen played in all 16 games. By December, he was able to play again, and appeared in the team's last four regular season games as well as their first and only playoff game, a 41–16 loss to the Green Bay Packers.

New England Patriots Gillen played eight games with the New England Patriots in 1983.

Chicago Blitz In 1984, Gillen headed to the United States Football League, where he played the rest of his professional career. He joined the Chicago Blitz that year, where he played middle linebacker and was used once on a kickoff return for 11 yards.

Personal life Gillen lives in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, with his wife, Wendy, and three children, John, Conor, and Grace.