Bob Waterfield

July 26, 1920, Elmira, New York

The All-in-One Quarterback

• A football pioneer who was a triple threat on offense and a defensive standout.

College Career

Bob Waterfield’s journey began at UCLA, where he established himself as a dominant and versatile player. He was a two-way star, excelling as a quarterback and defensive back, while also handling punting and kicking duties. In 1942, he led the Bruins to their first-ever victory over their rival, USC, and to their first Rose Bowl appearance. Despite taking a hiatus to serve in the U.S. Army, a medical discharge for a knee injury brought him back to UCLA to finish his college career. Upon his return, he burst onto the national scene at the 1945 East-West Shrine Game, solidifying his status as a top professional prospect.

Road to the Pro Game

The Cleveland Rams selected Waterfield with the fifth overall pick in the 1944 NFL Draft. He made an immediate and historic impact in his rookie season in 1945. He not only led the Rams to an NFL Championship, but also became the first rookie ever to be named the NFL’s Most Valuable Player. Following the team’s championship win, the franchise relocated to Los Angeles, taking advantage of Waterfield’s popularity in Southern California. He would spend his entire eight-year NFL career with the Rams, sharing quarterback duties with fellow Hall of Famer Norm Van Brocklin in a revolutionary two-quarterback system.

Football Legacy

Bob Waterfield’s legacy is one of unparalleled versatility. He was the quintessential “do-it-all” player, and in addition to his passing excellence, he was a superb punter and a reliable placekicker. He was also a top-tier defensive back during his first four seasons. His ability to throw the “bomb,” a long pass that caught defenses off guard, helped usher in the modern passing attack. His success as a quarterback and his ability to contribute in all three phases of the game changed how the position was viewed. After his playing career, he coached the Rams and was an early inductee into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, cementing his status as one of the game’s most influential pioneers.

Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

• Pro Football Hall of Fame (1965)
• NFL Most Valuable Player (1945)
• 2x NFL Champion (1945, 1951)
• 2x Pro Bowl Selection
• 3x First-Team All-Pro
• NFL 1940s All-Decade Team
• Career Passing Yards: 11,849
• Career Passing Touchdowns: 97
• Career Points: 573

The video “The Rookie Who Became NFL MVP in 1945!” provides more details on Waterfield’s historic first year in the NFL.