Football History

Larry Little was born November 2, 1945 in Groveland, Georgia. He aspired to the top of lists for NFL offensive linemen and elevated his team s to championships.

College Career

Larry Little's football journey began at Bethune-Cookman University, a historically Black college in Daytona Beach, Florida. A standout two-way lineman, Little excelled on both offense and defense, earning All-Conference honors and establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with. His impressive college career, however, did not translate into an immediate NFL draft selection. Undrafted in 1967, Little's journey to the professional ranks took an unexpected turn.  

Road to the Pro Game

After going undrafted, Little signed with the San Diego Chargers. While he gained valuable experience in the AFL, his true potential remained untapped. In 1969, he was traded to the Miami Dolphins, a move that would prove to be a turning point in his career.  

Football Legacy

In Miami, Little blossomed into one of the most dominant offensive guards in NFL history. His powerful blocking paved the way for the Dolphins' potent rushing attack, spearheaded by Hall of Famers Larry Csonka, Jim Kiick, and Mercury Morris. Little's consistent excellence earned him five Pro Bowl selections and solidified his place as a cornerstone of the Dolphins' offensive line.  

Little's impact extended beyond individual accolades. He was a key member of the legendary 1972 Miami Dolphins team, the only team in NFL history to complete a perfect season with a 17-0 record. His contributions to the team's success were invaluable, as he helped to protect quarterback Bob Griese and open holes for the running game.  

Beyond his on-field achievements, Larry Little is remembered for his leadership and sportsmanship. He was a respected teammate and a role model for aspiring athletes. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993 cemented his status as one of the greatest offensive linemen of all time.  

Larry Little's career serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere. His journey from an undrafted free agent to a Pro Football Hall of Famer is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and dedication to the game. His legacy as a dominant blocker, a key member of a championship team, and a respected leader will forever be etched in the annals of NFL history.

Randy Gradishar, born on March 3, 1952, in Warren, Ohio, established himself as one of the most dominant linebackers in NFL history, primarily known for his exceptional play with the Denver Broncos.

-College Career

-Gradishar's collegiate career flourished at Ohio State University, where he played linebacker under legendary coach Woody Hayes.

-He was a key member of the Buckeyes' renowned "Silver Bullet" defense, known for its toughness and discipline.

-His outstanding performance at Ohio State earned him recognition as one of the nation's top linebackers, setting the stage for his successful professional career.

-Road to the Pro Game

-the Denver Broncos selected Randy Gradishar in the first round of the 1974 NFL Draft.

-He spent his entire 10-year NFL career with the Broncos, becoming a cornerstone of their defense.

-His leadership and exceptional play were instrumental in the Broncos' rise to prominence in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

-Football Legacy

-Randy Gradishar's legacy is defined by his exceptional play at linebacker and his contributions to the Denver Broncos' "Orange Crush" defense.

-He was known for his intelligence, instincts, and tackling ability, making him one of the most feared linebackers of his era.

-His consistent performance and leadership helped the Broncos reach Super Bowl XII.

-His long wait for hall of fame induction, has also been a part of his legacy, with many fans feeling he should have been inducted years earlier.

-His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2024, has finally cemented his legacy.

**Accolades, Awards and Career Stats:

-Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee (2024)

-NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1978).

-2× First-team All-Pro (1977, 1978).

-3× Second-team All-Pro (1979, 1981, 1983).

-7× Pro Bowl selection (1975, 1977–1979, 1981–1983).

-He amassed a remarkable number of tackles throughout his career, becoming known for a very high number of tackles.

Jack Lambert wasn't just a linebacker; he was a symbol of the Pittsburgh Steelers' defensive dominance during their reign in the 1970s. Nicknamed "The Enforcer" for his punishing hits and relentless pursuit, Lambert embodied the fearlessness and physicality that defined the legendary Steel Curtain defense. This essay explores Lambert's impactful career, examining his role in the Steelers' dynasty, his leadership qualities, and his enduring legacy within the team and the game of football.

-From College Star to Steel Curtain Stalwart (1960s-1974)

Born in 1952, Jack Lambert displayed a natural aptitude for football from a young age. He excelled at Kent State University, earning recognition for his aggressive style of play and leadership qualities. Drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1974, Lambert's arrival coincided with the rise of the Steel Curtain defense. Under the tutelage of defensive mastermind Chuck Noll, Lambert found a perfect fit. His intensity and tackling prowess seamlessly complemented the talents of established stars like Joe Greene and L.C. Greenwood. Lambert quickly established himself as the emotional leader of the unit, earning the respect of teammates and striking fear in opponents.

-The Heart of the Steel Curtain (1974-1984)

Lambert's impact transcended mere tackling statistics. He was the quarterback of the defense, calling out plays and directing adjustments. His relentless work ethic and unwavering focus on winning inspired those around him. Opposing running backs learned to fear his bone-jarring tackles, and quarterbacks faced constant pressure with Lambert patrolling the middle of the field. His leadership and on-field presence were crucial factors in the Steelers' four Super Bowl victories in six years (1974, 1975, 1979, 1980).

-A Legacy Beyond Statistics (1984-Present)

Jack Lambert's legacy extends beyond his trophy case. He redefined the middle linebacker position, showing the value of aggressive playmaking alongside defensive intelligence. While his playing style wouldn't translate perfectly to the modern game with its emphasis on player safety, his unwavering dedication and leadership remain an inspiration. Following his retirement in 1984, Lambert has remained a revered figure within the Steelers organization. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990 solidified his place among the game's all-time greats.

-A Symbol of Steel Curtain Grit

Jack Lambert's story is more than just the tale of a dominant football player. He embodies the blue-collar work ethic and unyielding spirit that defined the Pittsburgh Steelers during their dynasty years. His leadership, intensity, and dedication to winning cemented his place as a legend within the Steel Curtain defense and the Steelers organization. Jack Lambert's legacy continues to inspire linebackers and football fans alike, reminding us that ferocity and intelligence can be a potent combination on the gridiron.

Jerry Kramer, a name synonymous with the legendary Green Bay Packers dynasty of the 1960s, carved his path to greatness through a combination of unwavering dedication and exceptional talent. His journey, marked by both individual brilliance and collective triumph, cemented his place as one of the most respected offensive guards in NFL history.

-College Career 

Kramer's college football career at the University of Utah saw him blossom into a formidable force. A two-time All-Western Athletic Conference selection, he anchored the offensive line, showcasing his signature blend of power and agility. His performances in college not only garnered recognition but also caught the eye of professional scouts, paving the way for his entry into the NFL.

-Road to the Pro Game

The Green Bay Packers, under the visionary leadership of legendary coach Vince Lombardi, selected Kramer in the fifth round of the 1958 NFL Draft. Joining a team on the cusp of greatness, Kramer quickly became an integral part of the offensive line. His physicality and unwavering determination made him a cornerstone of the famed "Packer Sweep," a devastating offensive strategy that propelled the team to unprecedented success.  

-Football Legacy

Kramer's career with the Packers was a testament to his enduring spirit and unwavering commitment. He was a key contributor to five NFL championships, including the first two Super Bowls. His consistent excellence earned him numerous accolades, including five consecutive Pro Bowl selections and enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1979.  

Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Kramer's legacy extends far beyond the gridiron. His autobiography, "Instant Replay," is considered a classic in sports literature, offering a candid and insightful look at the Packers dynasty and the era of Vince Lombardi. The book provides a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of a bygone era, capturing the essence of teamwork, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence.  

Jerry Kramer's impact on the NFL is undeniable. His contributions to the Green Bay Packers, his enduring spirit, and his lasting literary legacy serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and football enthusiasts alike. He remains a revered figure in the annals of NFL history, a true legend whose name will forever be synonymous with grit, determination, and the pursuit of greatness.

Summary of Accomplishments
courtesy of Wikipedie

- 2 Time Super Bowl champion (I, II)

-5 Time NFL champion (1961, 1962, 1965–1967)

-5 Time First-team All-Pro (1960, 1962, 1963, 1966, 1967)

-2 Time Second-team All-Pro (1961, 1968)

-3 Time Pro Bowl (1962, 1963, 1967)

-NFL 1960s All-Decade Team

-NFL 50th Anniversary All-Time Team

-Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame

-First-team All-PCC (1957)

Born on January 16, 1894, in Blue Springs, Nebraska was Guy Chamberlin, the sensational back and end of Nebraska Wesleyan and University of Nebraska. In 1911 and 1912 Chamberlin starred at Wesleyan, he then transferred to play with the Cornhuskers of Nebraska and in 1914 the team was 7-0-1 in 1914 with Chamberlin at halfback scoring on runs of 90, 85, 70 and 58 yards per the NFF.

After a transfer to end in 1915, he became an All-America selection and Nebraska went 8-0 on the season. The Cornhuskers had beaten Notre Dame 20-19. Knute Rockne, then a Notre Dame assistant coach, called Chamberlin "the key to Nebraska's victory." For his final college game, November 20, 1915, he moved back to halfback and scored five touchdowns in a 52-7 romp over Iowa.

Guy Chamberlin’s stats and bio went into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1962. After serving in World War I Guy played pro football for eight years. Bears legend, George Halas called him "the greatest two-way end in the history of the game." He was not only a good player but he was a great early coach in the NFL according to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

In his six coaching seasons, five of which were spent as a player-coach, Chamberlin also won four NFL championships for the Canton Bulldogs in 1922 and 1923, the Cleveland Bulldogs in 1924, and the Frankford Yellow Jackets in 1926. The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined Guy Chamberlin in 1965.

Born February 14, 1960 - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - The outstanding quarterback from the Miami Hurciane’s program Jim Kelly was born. The Buffalo Bills selected Kelly in the first round of the 1983 NFL Draft but the signal caller decided to sign with the USFL’s Houston Gamblers franchise instead.

The 6’-4” 225 quarterback spent two seasons with the Gamblers and threw for 9,842 yards and a whopping 83 touchdowns per the ProFootballHOF.com website. When the USFL folded Jim signed on with the NFL team that originally drafted him, the Bills in 1986. It was a perfect fit for both parties as Kelly ran the famed “no Huddle” fast paced offense of Coach Marv Levy to a tee. Having offensive weapons like running back Thurmon Thomas and receivers Andre Reid and James Lofton didn’t hurt either.

The Bills played in four straight Super Bowls in the 1990’s led by Kelly’s arm. In Jim’s 11 seasons with the Bills, he led the Bills to the AFC playoffs eight times. In those 17 playoff appearances, including four the Super Bowls, Kelly tossed the ball for 3,863 yards and 21 touchdowns! Jim Kelly was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2002.

-Career History

-Houston Gamblers (1984–1985)

-Buffalo Bills (1986–1996)

-Career Highlights and Awards

-USFL Most Valuable Player (1984)

-USFL Rookie of the Year (1984)

-2× First-team All-USFL (1984, 1985)

-First-team All-Pro (1991)

-Second-team All-Pro (1992)

-5× Pro Bowl (1987, 1988, 1990–1992)

-NFL passing touchdowns leader (1991)

-NFL passer rating leader (1990)

-NFL completion percentage leader (1990)

-Second-team All-South Independent (1981)

-Buffalo Bills Wall of Fame

-Buffalo Bills 50th Anniversary Team

-Buffalo Bills No. 12 retired

-USFL All-Time Team

-University of Miami Sports Hall of Fame

-NCAA Inspiration Award (2018)

-Career NFL Statistics

-Passing attempts: 4,779

-Passing completions: 2,874

-Completion percentage: 60.1%

-TD–INT: 237–175

-Passing yards: 35,467

-Passer rating: 84.4

Stats at Pro Football Reference
Jim Kelly. (2025, February 1). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Kelly

Joe DeLamielleure, born March 16, 1951, in Detroit, Michigan, forged a Hall of Fame career as an offensive guard, renowned for his exceptional blocking and integral role in the Buffalo Bills' potent offense of the 1970s.

DeLamielleure's football journey began at Michigan State University, where he excelled as a guard and earned All-American honors. His powerful blocking and consistent performance made him a highly sought-after prospect in the 1973 NFL Draft.

The Buffalo Bills selected DeLamielleure in the first round, and he quickly proved his value. He earned All-Rookie honors in his debut season, a testament to his immediate impact. DeLamielleure became a cornerstone of the Bills' offensive line, famously known as the "Electric Company," which powered O.J. Simpson's record-breaking rushing performances. While traditional statistics for offensive linemen are limited, his crucial role as a lead blocker for Simpson's prolific runs speaks volumes about his effectiveness. He was known for his durability and ability to pull and lead blocks, a vital part of the Bills offense.

DeLamielleure's football legacy is deeply intertwined with the Bills' offensive dominance during the 1970s. He was a key component of an offensive line that paved the way for Simpson's historic 2,003-yard rushing season in 1973. His consistent excellence and leadership earned him recognition as one of the premier guards of his era. After his time in Buffalo, he played for the Cleveland Browns, where he continued to play at a high level.

DeLamielleure's accolades include his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2003, solidifying his place among the most outstanding offensive linemen. He was selected to eight Pro Bowls and six First-Team All-Pro selections. His All-Rookie selection highlights how quickly he adjusted to the NFL. While precise statistics for offensive linemen of that era are scarce, his consistent presence in the lineup, his role in Simpson's rushing records, and his numerous accolades underscore his significant contributions to the game. His impact on the Bills' offensive success and his consistent excellence throughout his career cement his legacy as a Hall of Fame offensive guard.

Dan Fortmann may not be a house hold pro football name known by today's fans but this player was truly special. Danny was born on April 11, 1916 in Pearl River, New York. His Pro Football Hall of Fame Career is memorable.

College Career:

Dan Fortmann's football prowess blossomed at Colgate University, where he excelled as a lineman for the Red Raiders. Under the tutelage of legendary coach Andy Kerr, Fortmann quickly established himself as a dominant force on the gridiron. His exceptional play earned him All-East honors in 1935, solidifying his reputation as one of the nation's top collegiate players. Colgate, with Fortmann anchoring their line, enjoyed significant success during his tenure, boasting a remarkable 20-5-1 record.  

Road to the Pro Game:

Fortmann's collegiate achievements did not go unnoticed. The Chicago Bears, recognizing his immense talent, selected him in the ninth round of the 1936 NFL Draft. This marked the beginning of a legendary career with the legendary franchise.  

Football Legacy:

Dan Fortmann's impact on the NFL was profound and enduring. He quickly emerged as a cornerstone of the Bears' offensive line, earning All-Pro honors for an impressive seven consecutive seasons from 1937 to 1943. His exceptional blocking paved the way for the Bears' offensive success, contributing significantly to their NFL championships in 1940, 1941, and 1943.  

Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Fortmann's legacy extends beyond the gridiron. He stands as a testament to the power of dedication and perseverance, seamlessly balancing his professional football career with his academic pursuits. He earned his medical degree from the University of Chicago while still an active NFL player, a remarkable feat that underscores his intellectual prowess and unwavering commitment to excellence.  

Dan Fortmann's story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and scholars alike. His unwavering dedication to both academics and athletics exemplifies the true meaning of a scholar-athlete. His contributions to the game of football and his lasting impact on the Chicago Bears solidify his place as one of the most revered figures in NFL history.

Born on March 6, 1898, in St. Louis, Missouri, Jimmy Conzelman wasn't just a player, coach, or owner; he was a jack-of-all-trades who left his mark on the early professional football landscape. From 1920 to 1948, he donned various hats, making him a unique figure in the sport's history.

Playing Days & Early Coaching: Conzelman's playing career stretched across a decade, spanning teams like the Decatur Staleys (later Chicago Bears) and the Providence Steam Roller. In some instances, he showcased versatility, playing quarterback, halfback, placekicker, and even serving as player-coach. While individual statistics weren't widely tracked in his era, his leadership and talent were undeniable.

Championship Coach: Beyond the playing field, Conzelman found his true calling as a coach. He led the Providence Steam Roller to an NFL championship in 1928, showcasing his tactical understanding and inspiring ability. Even more impressively, he later guided the Chicago Cardinals to a title in 1947, proving his leadership could flourish at different levels.

Beyond the Gridiron: Conzelman's life wasn't confined to football. He dabbled in various fields, including acting, singing, and even as an executive in Major League Baseball. This diverse background brought a unique perspective to his coaching, allowing him to connect with players on a different level.

Legacy & Recognition: Conzelman's impact on football is undeniable. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1964 is a testament to his contribution to the game.

Born February 3, 1940, in Richmond, Virginia, was Fran Tarkenton, the mobile quarterback from the University of Georgia. Fran led the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and was an Academic All-American.

Tarkenton is best remembered at Georgia for the 1959 game with Auburn. Trailing 13-7 with time running out, Georgia had the ball, fourth down, on the 13-yard line. Tarkenton threw a touchdown pass, and Georgia won the game and clinched the conference title. The National Football Foundation selected Fran Tarkenton for entrance into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1987. Tarkenton was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 1961, and in his first game, he tossed four touchdown passes and used his legs for a fifth. In 1967, Fran left the Vikings and spent five seasons with the New York Giants until a surprising trade in 1972 led him back to Minnesota. According to ProfootballHOF.com, Fran rewarded the Vikings for trading for him in his final seven years with the Vikings as he led Minnesota to six NFC Central Division titles and three Super Bowl appearances. He was named first- or second-team All-NFL three times. In 18 seasons in the NFL, Fran played in 9 Pro Bowls, threw 47,003 yards passing, and 342 TDs while he ran for another 3674 yards.  In 1986 ceremonies, the Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined Fran Tarkenton in their Canton museum.

A real trendsetter was this quarterback, who could kill a defense with his scrambling ability as much as possible with his accurate arm.