By Darin Intro Hook: On December 5, 1936, the world welcomed John Wooten, a player who would not only dominate the line of scrimmage for the University of Colorado but also blaze a path for others to follow. Wooten established himself as a dominant force at tackle, becoming one of the first African-Americans to earn All-America honors as a lineman in 1958. His exceptional blocking skills anchored a powerful Buffaloes rushing attack that consistently ranked among the nation’s best, leaving an indelible mark on the game that eventually led to his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame.
Football Bio
December 5, 1936 – Riverview, Texas – John Wooten, the outstanding tackle from the University of Colorado, was born.
The NFF’s bio on John tells us that he blazed a path for others to follow, becoming one of the first African-Americans to earn All-America honors as a lineman in 1958. His bio goes on to give the tale of the tape on his blocking, which had the Buffaloes ranked 12th in the nation in 1956 with 252.1 yards per game, first in 1957 with 322.4 yards per game, and fifth in 1958 with 249.5 yards per game.
The National Football Foundation selected John Wooten to enter the College Football Hall of Fame in 2012.
Conclusion
John Wooten’s legacy extends far beyond his individual accolades. He was a foundational player for the University of Colorado, consistently driving a rushing offense that topped national charts year after year. As a pioneer who achieved All-America status at a time of change in the sport, his achievements—from his dominant blocking statistics to his 2012 induction into the College Football Hall of Fame—mark him as one of the most significant linemen in the history of college football.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
John Wooten: Career Accomplishments
- Birth Date: December 5, 1936 (Riverview, Texas).
- College Position: Offensive Tackle, University of Colorado Buffaloes.
- Pioneering Honor: One of the first African-Americans to earn All-America honors as a lineman (1958).
- Blocking Impact: Anchored a University of Colorado rushing attack that achieved national rankings:
- 1956: 12th in the nation (252.1 yards per game).
- 1957: 1st in the nation (322.4 yards per game).
- 1958: 5th in the nation (249.5 yards per game).
- Hall of Fame: Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2012 (selected by the NFF).
