Before the accolades and the Hall of Fame enshrinement, there was a dominant force out of Tyler, Texas, nicknamed "The Tyler Rose" for his explosive power and surprising agility. This series will delve into the remarkable career of Earl Campbell, a running back who redefined physicality in football. From his Heisman Trophy-winning season at the University of Texas, where he became the Longhorns' first recipient of the prestigious award, to his explosive entry into the NFL as the number one overall draft pick by the Houston Oilers, we'll explore the journey of a player who terrorized defenses and earned the respect of the league.

We'll examine Campbell's immediate impact in the NFL, where he claimed Rookie of the Year honors and quickly established himself as the league's premier rusher, earning multiple MVP and Offensive Player of the Year awards. His punishing running style and relentless determination made him a focal point of the "Luv Ya Blue" era in Houston. Join us as we celebrate the unforgettable career of Earl Campbell, a true icon whose powerful runs and unwavering spirit continue to inspire generations of football fans.

Find more photos and a Big thanks to the image above courtesy of NFL Past Players - Earl Campbell