Football History

Warren Rogan takes his Sports Forgotten Heroes podcast to new places to seek past athletes' memories and accomplishments. Claude "Buddy" Young (1926-2003) was a trailblazing African American athlete who left his mark on both college and professional football. Nicknamed the "Bronze Bullet" for his exceptional speed and acceleration, Young's career was a testament to talent, perseverance, and the fight for racial equality in sports.

College Standout:

A world-class sprinter, Young's athleticism translated seamlessly to football at the University of Illinois.
He earned the nickname "Bronze Bullet" for his electrifying runs, leading the Illini to a Big Ten Championship in 1946.
Young set the Big Ten single-season rushing record (later tied) and was named an All-American.
Pro Pioneer:

Despite facing racial discrimination, Young entered the NFL in 1947, playing for the New York Giants.
He established himself as a versatile threat, excelling as a running back, receiver, and kick returner.
Young racked up over 4,000 rushing yards and 2,000 receiving yards in his nine-year professional career.
He became one of the first African Americans to achieve significant success in the NFL.
Beyond the Field:

After retiring from playing, Young remained involved in football as an assistant coach and then an assistant commissioner for the NFL.
He worked to diversify the league and address racial inequities, paving the way for future generations of players.
Young was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1984 and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993.
Legacy:

Buddy Young's athletic prowess and unwavering spirit in the face of adversity made him a legend of the game. He not only excelled on the field, but also used his platform to advocate for equality and pave the way for future generations of African American athletes in football.

Jimmy Conzelman wasn't just a player, coach, or owner; he was a jack-of-all-trades who left his mark on the early professional football landscape. From 1920 to 1948, he donned various hats, making him a unique figure in the sport's history.

Playing Days & Early Coaching: Conzelman's playing career stretched across a decade, spanning teams like the Decatur Staleys (later Chicago Bears) and the Providence Steam Roller. In some instances, he showcased versatility, playing quarterback, halfback, placekicker, and even serving as player-coach. While individual statistics weren't widely tracked in his era, his leadership and talent were undeniable.

Championship Coach: Beyond the playing field, Conzelman found his true calling as a coach. He led the Providence Steam Roller to an NFL championship in 1928, showcasing his tactical understanding and inspiring ability. Even more impressively, he later guided the Chicago Cardinals to a title in 1947, proving his leadership could flourish at different levels.

Beyond the Gridiron: Conzelman's life wasn't confined to football. He dabbled in various fields, including acting, singing, and even as an executive in Major League Baseball. This diverse background brought a unique perspective to his coaching, allowing him to connect with players on a different level.

Legacy & Recognition: Conzelman's impact on football is undeniable. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1964 is a testament to his contribution to the game.