By Darin What would compel a man to be the most wanted player in America and then simply walk away? In 1935, Jay Berwanger became the inaugural winner of the trophy that would later be known as the Heisman, setting the gold standard for individual excellence. A one-man wrecking crew for the University of Chicago, Berwanger was so talented that he was the first-ever player selected in the first-ever NFL Draft. Yet, in a twist that seems unthinkable today, “The Flying Dutchman” chose a briefcase over a pigskin. Explore the legendary career of the man who started it all.
Football Bio
March 19, 1914 – Jay Berwanger, the very 1st Heisman Trophy winner in 1935, was born in Dubuque, Iowa. Jay was nicknamed “The Flying Dutchman” and was a two-time All-America halfback for Chicago, according to the NFF.
In just 24 college games, he scored 22 touchdowns, averaged 4.2 yards per rushing attempt, and held a 25.7-yard average on kick returns. The Foundation voters placed Jay Berwanger into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1954. Jay is also the answer to another first in gridiron history besides the Heisman. He was the first player taken in the first Professional draft by the Philadelphia Eagles, but was promptly traded to George Halas and the Bears. He never played a down in the NFL, choosing a career in business instead.
Conclusion
Jay Berwanger remains a unique figure in the annals of the gridiron—a pioneer who stands at the intersection of collegiate glory and the birth of the professional draft. By winning the first “Downtown Athletic Club Trophy,” he became the blueprint for the modern football icon. His decision to pursue a business career rather than sign with George Halas serves as a fascinating reminder of an era when professional football was still in its infancy. Though he never played a down in the NFL, his 1,835 rushing yards and ironman versatility at Chicago earned him a permanent place in the pantheon of the greats.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- First Heisman Trophy Winner: 1935 (Originally called the Downtown Athletic Club Trophy).
- First Overall Pick: Selected 1st overall in the inaugural 1936 NFL Draft (Philadelphia Eagles).
- College Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1954.
- Two-Time Unanimous All-American: 1934, 1935.
- Chicago Tribune Silver Football Winner: 1935 (Most Valuable Player in the Big Ten).
- Versatile “Ironman”: Played halfback, safety, punter, and kicker; also called the team’s plays.
- University of Chicago Legend: His jersey #99 was the first to be retired by the school.
- Chicago Legend: Named to the All-Time Big Ten Team in 1990.
