John Cappelletti captured the hearts of fans everywhere as Penn State’s unstoppable Heisman-winning running back and transformed a personal family struggle into a legendary story of inspiration.
Football Bio
August 9, 1952 – John Cappelletti, a running back from Penn State University who entered the College Football Hall of Fame class of 1993, was born on that day, and he won the Heisman Trophy in 1973 and then went on to play in the NFL for the Los Angeles Rams and the San Diego Chargers. [National Football Foundation]
Cappalletti’s football career and his relationship with his ill younger brother were famously portrayed in the touching movie Something for Joey back in the 1970s.
John Cappelletti demonstrated unparalleled resilience and power on the football field while showing profound compassion in his personal life. He permanently cemented his legacy as a defining figure in college football history who continues to inspire new generations.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- Heisman Trophy Winner: 1973 (Remains the only player in Penn State history to win the award).
- Maxwell Award Winner: 1973.
- Walter Camp Award Winner: 1973.
- UPI College Football Player of the Year: 1973.
- Unanimous First-Team All-American: 1973.
- College Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1993.
- Historic Jersey Retirement: Penn State permanently retired his No. 22 jersey in 2013, marking the first time the program ever retired a player’s number.
- Elite Rushing Season: Rushed for 1,522 yards and 17 touchdowns during his perfect 12-0 senior campaign in 1973.
- NFL First-Round Pick: Selected 11th overall by the Los Angeles Rams in the 1974 NFL Draft.
- NFL Career: Played 10 seasons professionally for the Los Angeles Rams and San Diego Chargers, accumulating 2,951 rushing yards, 1,233 receiving yards, and 28 total touchdowns.
