By Darin Steve Meilinger was perhaps the most versatile star in University of Kentucky history, earning the nickname “Mr. Anywhere.” Under Hall of Fame coach Bear Bryant, this multi-position playmaker led the Wildcats to a historic victory in the 1952 Cotton Bowl and secured two First-Team All-America selections. Learn how Meilinger’s elite skill set paved the way for a six-year NFL career and his eventual induction into the College Football Hall of Fame.
Football Bio
December 12, 1930 – Bethlehem, Pennsylvania – The University of Kentucky’s multi-position playmaker Steve Meilinger was born. In fact, Steve was so versatile that he was aptly called ‘Mr. Anywhere.”
The NFF’s bio on Meilinger states that he was a two-time First-Team All-America selection in 1952 and 1953, and under Hall of Fame head coach Bear Bryant, Meilinger led Kentucky to victory in the 1952 Cotton Bowl over TCU. In 2013, the College Football Hall of Fame inducted Steve Meilinger into their fold.
Steve entered the NFL and played for the Washington Redskins after being drafted by the team in the 1954 NFL Draft. He also played for the Packers and the Steelers during his 6-year NFL career.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- Birth Date: December 12, 1930
- Birth Place: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
- Nickname: “Mr. Anywhere” (due to his multi-position versatility)
- College Team: University of Kentucky Wildcats
- All-America Selections: Two-time First-Team All-America selection (1952 and 1953)
- Key College Accomplishment: Led Kentucky to victory in the 1952 Cotton Bowl over TCU, playing under coach Bear Bryant.
- NFL Draft: Drafted in the 1954 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins.
- NFL Career: Played 6 years in the NFL for the Washington Redskins, Green Bay Packers, and Pittsburgh Steelers.
- Hall of Fame: Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2013 (Selected by NFF voters).
- Source: National Football Foundation (NFF)
Conclusion
Steve Meilinger’s career epitomizes the toughness and versatility required of players in football’s early eras. To be nicknamed “Mr. Anywhere” and earn multiple All-America honors under an exacting coach like Bear Bryant speaks volumes about his rare talent. His achievements—from the Cotton Bowl win to a six-year NFL run—cement his status as one of Kentucky’s greatest. If you’d like to dive deeper, we can explore the details of the 1952 Cotton Bowl or look into Meilinger’s specific roles on offense and defense that earned him his famous nickname!
