Ed Franco Fordham Block of Granite

Edmundo Guido Armando "Ed" Franco was born on April 24, 1915, in New York City, New York. He carved out a notable career in American football, primarily recognized for his contributions at the collegiate level.

✦ College Career

Franco's college football career reached its zenith at Fordham University. He played both guard and tackle for the Fordham Rams and was part of the legendary "Seven Blocks of Granite." Coached by Jim Crowley, one of Notre Dame's famed "Four Horsemen," the "Seven Blocks" were renowned for their formidable line play. Franco, despite his relatively more diminutive stature for a lineman, was known for his toughness and skill. He was a consensus All-American in 1937 and a first-team All-American in 1936. He was only one of two Fordham players ever named a consensus All-American. He played alongside the famous Vince Lombardi, the right guard for the legendary Green Bay Packers, also known as the Blocks of Granite.

The Fordham Rams were a powerhouse during Franco's time. In 1935, the Rams achieved a 6-1-2 record with five shutouts. The 1936 squad lost only one game, and the 1937 team went undefeated with eight wins. Franco's contributions to Fordham's success remain a significant part of the program's history.

✦ Road to the Pro Game

Ed Franco's professional football career was brief. He was drafted by the Cleveland Rams in the 5th round (31st overall) of the 1938 NFL Draft. He did not stay with the Rams. He later played for the Boston Yanks in 1944, appearing in 10 games, starting 9 of them. At that time, professional football did not offer the financial rewards it does today, which influenced Franco's career decisions. After his playing career, Franco transitioned to coaching. He coached at Fordham and served as a scout for the Green Bay Packers and Washington Redskins.

✦ Football Legacy

Ed Franco's football legacy primarily lies in his collegiate achievements. His role in the "Seven Blocks of Granite" solidified his place in college football lore. He is remembered as a talented and tough offensive lineman. His contributions to Fordham's success during the 1930s helped define that era of college football. His impact on Fordham is still celebrated, and his legacy is honored at the university.

✦ Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

✦ Consensus All-American (1937)

✦ First-team All-American (1936)

✦ First-team All-Eastern (1937)

✦ College Football Hall of Fame (1980)

✦ NFL stats: 10 games, 9 games started (with the Boston Yanks in 1944).

In 1980, a Jersey City baseball park was dedicated in his name. Fordham University also honored the "Seven Blocks of Granite" with a monument on its campus.