By Darin Before the era of the modern, hyper-athletic tight end, there was Charles Young. A physical marvel with the hands of a wideout and the strength of an offensive lineman, Young didn’t just play the position—he redefined it. From leading the USC Trojans to a perfect season to becoming an immediate sensation in the NFL, “Tree” left an indelible mark on every field he stepped upon.
Football Bio
February 5, 1951 – Fresno, California – The great Southern Cal tight end, Charles Young, was born. Charles was a unanimous First Team All-America in 1972, as part of the Trojans’ National Championship team that season, per the NFF. Charles Young was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2004. After school, Young earned NFL Rookie of the Year honors with the Philadelphia Eagles in 1973 and went on to play for 13 seasons in the NFL with four teams. He earned All-Pro honors four times and won a Super Bowl with the San Francisco 49ers in 1983.
Conclusion
Charles Young remains one of the most decorated tight ends in the history of the sport. His rare combination of size and speed earned him the nickname “Tree,” and his consistency across thirteen professional seasons proved he was a foundational piece for every franchise he joined. Whether it was dominating the Pac-12 or hoisted the Lombardi Trophy, Young exemplified excellence at every level of the game.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- 1972 NCAA National Champion (USC Trojans)
- Unanimous First-Team All-American (1972)
- College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (Class of 2004)
- NFL Rookie of the Year (1973)
- Super Bowl XVII Champion (San Francisco 49ers)
- 3-time Pro Bowl Selection (1973, 1974, 1975)
- 4-time All-Pro Selection (1973, 1974, 1975, 1978)
- 13 NFL Seasons (Philadelphia Eagles, Los Angeles Rams, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks)
