By Darin In an era before the “super-sized” tight ends of today, Dan Ross was a trailblazing force from a program not typically known as a football factory. The Northeastern standout didn’t just break records; he shattered expectations. From becoming the first Huskie enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame to delivering one of the most dominant individual performances in Super Bowl history, Ross proved that elite talent can emerge from any corner of the gridiron map.
Football Bio
February 9, 1957 – Dan Ross, the former tight end from Northeastern University in Boston, was born. Dan Ross received the great honor of being selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2004.
Conclusion
Dan Ross was a true pioneer for the modern tight end position. His performance in Super Bowl XVI, where he caught 11 passes for 104 yards and two touchdowns, remains one of the most remarkable displays by a tight end on the sport’s biggest stage. Whether he was rewriting the record books at Northeastern or earning All-Pro honors in both the NFL and the USFL, Ross played with a combination of power and precision that earned him the respect of teammates and opponents alike.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (Class of 2004)
- First-Team All-American (1978)
- Super Bowl XVI Record Holder: 11 receptions (Most by a tight end in a Super Bowl)
- NFL Pro Bowl Selection (1982)
- Second-Team All-Pro (1982)
- PFWA NFL All-Rookie Team (1979)
- Bulger Lowe Award Winner (Best Player in New England, 1978)
- Harry Agganis Award Winner (New England’s Outstanding Senior, 1978)
- Retired Jersey No. 84 (Northeastern University)
- Northeastern University Career Record Holder: Receptions (153) and Receiving Yards (2,343)
- All-USFL Selection (1984)
