By Darin Art Monk developed into a game-changing wide receiver whose impact spanned both college and professional football. At the University of Syracuse (1976–1979), he quickly became the top player in the East, earning the prestigious Lambert Trophy and First Team All-America honors in 1979. His remarkable athleticism paved the way for an illustrious 16-season NFL career where Monk became known for his consistency, toughness, and record-breaking hands.
Football Bio
December 5, 1957 – White Plains, New York – The University of Syracuse’s legendary wide receiver Art Monk was born. Monk played at Syracuse from 1976 through 1979 and won the Lambert Trophy as the top college player in the East, according to his bio on footballfoundation.org.
His great athleticism earned him First Team All-America honors in 1979. Art Monk was inducted into the prestigious College Football Hall of Fame in 2012. After he left Syracuse, Art was a first-round pick by the Washington Redskins in the 1980 NFL Draft.
He played 16 seasons in the NFL in Washington, as well as with the New York Jets and as a member of the Philadelphia Eagles. The Pro Football Hall of Fame states that his career catches totaled 940 and that he played 183 straight games in which he caught at least one pass. Monk was an All-Pro twice and was voted into three Pro Bowls.
The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined Art Monk in 2008.
Conclusion
Art Monk’s career legacy is defined by his incredible reliability and pioneering excellence at the wide receiver position. His ability to string together 183 consecutive games with a reception is a testament to his durability and skill. Inducted into both the College Football Hall of Fame in 2012 and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2008, Monk stands as one of the most respected players of his era, a true foundation for the Washington Redskins dynasty he helped build.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
Art Monk: Career Accomplishments
- Birth Date: December 5, 1957 (White Plains, New York).
- College Position: Wide Receiver, Syracuse University (1976–1979).
- Collegiate Honors (1979): Won the Lambert Trophy (Top College Player in the East) and earned First Team All-America honors.
- NFL Draft: First-round pick by the Washington Redskins in the 1980 NFL Draft.
- NFL Career Span: 16 seasons (Washington Redskins, New York Jets, Philadelphia Eagles).
- NFL Records/Milestones: Finished with 940 career receptions; played 183 straight games with at least one reception.
- NFL Accolades: Two-time All-Pro and three-time Pro Bowl selection.
- Pro Football Hall of Fame: Enshrined in 2008.
- College Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 2012.
