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Dana Howard College Football Hall of...

Dana Howard, born on February 27, 1972, in East St. Louis, Illinois, established himself as a dominant...

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"Dana Howard College Football Hall of Fame Linebacker"

Last updated 📅 2025-02-27

Dana Howard, born on February 27, 1972, in East St. Louis, Illinois, established himself as a dominant force in college football and then proceeded to a professional football career. His dedication and skill left a lasting mark on the sport.

The Image of WIllinois football legend Dana Howard courtesy of WCIA.com

College Career

Howard's collegiate career flourished at the University of Illinois, where he played linebacker for the Fighting Illini from 1991 to 1994.

He became a tackling machine, setting records and earning numerous accolades.

Notably, he finished his career as the Big Ten's all-time leading tackler, with 595 stops.

His consistent performance, with over 100 tackles in each of his four seasons, solidified his reputation as a top-tier linebacker.

Road to the Pro Game

Howard was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the fifth round of the 1995 NFL Draft.

He then went on to play in the NFL for the St. Louis Rams and the Chicago Bears.

He also played for the Amsterdam Admirals in NFL Europe.

Football Legacy

Dana Howard's legacy is defined by his exceptional college career and his recognition as one of the best linebackers of his time.

His record-breaking tackling numbers and prestigious awards have cemented his place in college football history.

He is also a member of the College Football Hall of Fame.

Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

Butkus Award (1994)

Jack Lambert Award (1994)

Unanimous First-Team All-American (1994)

First-Team All-American (1993)

Two-time Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year (1993, 1994)

Multiple First-Team All-Big Ten honors.

College Football Hall of Fame inductee.

Finished his college career as the Big Ten's all-time leading tackler.

NFL experience with the St. Louis Rams and Chicago Bears.

  • HASHTAGS: #DanaHoward #Linebacker #ChicagoBears #IllinoisIllini #LosAngelesRams #Number40 #CollegeFootballHallofFame
  • FOOTBALL NAME: Dana Howard
  • FOOTBALL POSITION: Linebacker
  • FOOTBALL TEAM: Chicago Bears, Illinois Illini, Los Angeles Rams
  • NCAAF JERSEY: Number 40
  • SPORTS: College Football Hall of Fame

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The Chicago Bears, one of the NFL's most iconic franchises, boast a rich history with surprising beginnings. Contrary to their fierce mascot, the Bears' origin stemmed not from gridiron dominance, but from an unlikely source: a laundry products company team.
In 1919, a young George Halas and a group of friends, were employed at the A.E. Staley Manufacturing Company. The manufacturer sponsored a baseball and later a football team to not only market the brand but to keep their employees in good shape of body and mind. This led to the venture into the burgeoning sport of professional football. With a mere $5,000 investment, they formed the Decatur Staleys, named after A.E. Staley Manufacturing Company, which sponsored the team. The Staleys played their first game on September 19, 1920, against the Rock Island Independents. Despite losing 6-10, the game marked the launch of an extraordinary journey. In 1921, the team relocated to Chicago, kept the Staleys name for another year per an agreement with he manufacturer as Halas would assume ownership, and in honor of the nickname "Cubs," the city's beloved baseball team chose a suitable moniker to match...

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