Football History

The bio of the Canadian-born football star Arnie Weinmeister and his brilliant CFL and NFL career. He played in the NFL for the New York Yankees, and New York Giants and in the CFL with the BC Lions.

Arnie Weinmeister was a trailblazer. Though his career spanned a mere six years (1948-1953), his impact transcended statistics, leaving a mark on both Canadian and American football.

Born in Canada, Weinmeister began his career with the Regina Roughriders before turning heads with his athleticism and leadership. Drafted by the New York Yankees in the AAFC, he quickly transitioned to defense, showcasing his power and finesse as a tackle. His performance earned him All-AAFC honors in his rookie year, setting the stage for a dominant run.

Joining the New York Giants in 1950, Weinmeister became a defensive cornerstone. His aggressive style and relentless pursuit of quarterbacks earned him the nickname "The Howitzer." He garnered All-NFL selections four consecutive years and participated in the first four Pro Bowls, a new tradition at the time.

Beyond individual accolades, Weinmeister was a team player. He served as co-captain in his final season, leading the Giants to several championship appearances. His influence extended beyond the field, inspiring younger players like Sam Huff and Willie Mays with his work ethic and dedication.

Though his career was cut short by injuries, Weinmeister's legacy lived on. He was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 1963 and, more impressively, the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1984, one of the shortest careers to receive such an honor.

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Dateline December 28, 1958, The New York Giants sideline was stunned as the Baltimore Colts scored in Overtime to defeat the G-men 23-17 in the Greatest Game Ever Played. On that Giants sideline was a rookie wide receiver from Texas Western named Don Maynard.

Little did anyone know that this speedy wideout would avenge this early championship loss to bask in the limelight of a brilliant 15-year pro football career. We often think of Don Maynard as the guy on the other end of so many of Joe Namath's spirals, but there are some hidden knowledge nuggets about the legend that goes beyond his 633 receptions with 11,834 receiving yards and 88 Touchdowns.

It got rocky before it got good, though, as NY released Maynard and went North the following year to play for the Hamilton Ti-Cats of the CFL. After a one-year stint there, the new American Football League came calling and gave the speedster an opportunity with the New York Titans. Don stayed with that club throughout the AFL, witnessed the rebranding as the Jets won a title, and helped the franchise merge into the NFL for a spectacular 13-year career in NY Green. He went on to play for the St. Louis Cardinls, LA Rams, and later with with the Houston Texans / Shreveport Steamer of the WFL.

Maynard played in four different Pro Football Leagues, NFL, AFL, CFL and WFL.

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.

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Pittsburgh Steelers center Mike Webster was the anchor of a line that protected QB Terry Bradshaw. Part of the success of the 1970s Pittsburgh Steelers.

Mike Webster's story is a complex one, a tale of gridiron greatness intertwined with a heartbreaking and controversial ending. He wasn't just a Pro Football Hall of Fame center for the Pittsburgh Steelers; he was a symbol of the human cost of playing the game he loved.

Webster's career began like a dream. Drafted by the Steelers in 1974, he quickly established himself as the anchor of their offensive line. His intelligence, strength, and leadership were instrumental in the Steelers' dynasty era, contributing to four Super Bowl victories and earning him four All-Pro selections.

Beyond individual accolades, Webster was a beloved teammate and locker-room leader. His calm demeanor and fierce loyalty earned him the respect and admiration of players and coaches alike. He embodied the "Steel Curtain" mentality, playing with a toughness and tenacity that defined the Steelers' identity.

Claude Humphrey's football career stands as a testament to perseverance, excellence, and sheer dominance on the gridiron. Born on June 29, 1944, in Memphis, Tennessee, Humphrey emerged as one of the most feared defensive ends of his era, leaving an indelible mark on the National Football League (NFL).

Humphrey's journey to football greatness began at Tennessee State University, where his athletic prowess quickly caught the attention of scouts and coaches. Excelling as a defensive end, he demonstrated a rare blend of speed, agility, and power that set him apart from his peers. His stellar performances earned him All-American honors and laid the foundation for a promising professional career.

In the 1968 NFL Draft, Humphrey was selected by the Atlanta Falcons as the third overall pick, marking the beginning of his impactful tenure in the league. From the outset, he made an immediate impact, showcasing his ability to disrupt opposing offenses with his relentless pass rush and formidable run-stopping capabilities. His technique and athleticism made him a nightmare for offensive linemen, earning him respect across the league.

Throughout his NFL career, Humphrey played a pivotal role in the Falcons' defense, anchoring the line and setting a high standard for defensive excellence. His consistency and durability were remarkable, as he continued to perform at a high level year after year. His leadership qualities also shone through, inspiring teammates and earning the admiration of fans and coaches alike.

Humphrey's standout performances did not go unnoticed, as he received numerous accolades and honors during his career. He was selected to the Pro Bowl six times (1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1977) and earned first-team All-Pro honors five times (1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1977). His impact on the Falcons' defense was instrumental in establishing them as a competitive force in the league.

In 1979, Humphrey briefly retired from the NFL but returned to the gridiron a year later, joining the Philadelphia Eagles. Despite nearing the end of his career, he continued to demonstrate his effectiveness as a pass rusher and leader on the field. His veteran presence and experience proved invaluable to the Eagles' defense, contributing to their success during his tenure with the team.

Claude Humphrey's football career culminated in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the sport. In 2014, he was rightfully enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest defensive ends in NFL history. His induction was a fitting tribute to his remarkable career and served as a testament to his enduring impact on the game.

Beyond his on-field achievements, Humphrey's dedication and passion for football continue to inspire generations of players and fans. His journey from a standout college athlete to a Hall of Fame professional exemplifies the rewards of hard work, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Claude Humphrey remains a revered figure in football history, forever etched in the annals of the sport as a true gridiron legend.

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George Halas wasn't just a football player, coach, or owner; he was an architect, a pioneer, and a godfather. Spanning seven decades, his career intertwined with the very evolution of professional football, leaving an indelible mark on the game we know and love today.

Starting as a versatile athlete in the early 1900s, Halas soon transitioned to coaching, leading teams with his innovative strategies and fierce competitiveness. He co-founded the Decatur Staleys (later renamed the Chicago Bears) in 1920, becoming owner, coach, and even player at times. He revolutionized the game with tactics like the T-formation and the "man in motion," forever changing the offensive landscape.

Halas wasn't just building a team; he was building a league. He was pivotal in establishing the National Football League (NFL) in 1920, serving as its president for multiple terms and shaping its rules and structure. He was a shrewd businessman, securing television deals and driving the league's financial growth.

His influence extended beyond the field. He advocated for player safety, fought for racial equality, and even served as a Navy officer during World War II. He became a symbol of integrity and leadership, earning the respect of players, coaches, and fans alike.

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Leonard Guy Ford Jr., better known as the "Two-Handed Terror," wasn't your typical NFL star. A hulking 6'4" and 245 pounds, his dominance transcended mere size. He was a defensive whirlwind, a two-way terror who redefined the ends position in the 1940s and 50s.

Ford's career unfolded like a football epic. He began with the Los Angeles Dons in the All-America Football Conference, excelling not just as a fearsome defender but also as a pass-catching weapon. His leaping one-handed grabs became legendary, showcasing a rare blend of power and finesse.

When the AAFC folded, Ford landed with the Cleveland Browns, joining the legendary Cleveland teams of the 1950s. Here, his defensive prowess truly blossomed. He terrorized quarterbacks with unstoppable pass rushes, recovering fumbles and earning All-NFL honors four times.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame tells of the 1984 NFL Draft and the Number 1 pick by the New England Patriots, Irving Fryar.

May 1, 1984 - Nebraska wide receiver Irving Fryar was the first pick by the New England Patriots in the 1984 NFL Draft. In my research I cannot find where one member of this draft class has been enshrined as of yet in Canton, Ohio. It is interesting that another Cornhusker offensive player was selected at the number 2 spot in Dean Steinkuhler to the Houston Oilers. The Pro Football Reference gives us a glimpse of the first ten selections:

Pick Tm Player Pos College/Univ

1 NWE Irving Fryar WR Nebraska College Stats
2 HOU Dean Steinkuhler T Nebraska College Stats
3 NYG Carl Banks LB Michigan St.
4 PHI Kenny Jackson WR Penn St. College Stats
5 KAN Bill Maas NT Pittsburgh
6 SDG Mossy Cade DB Texas
7 CIN Ricky Hunley LB Arizona College Stats
8 IND Leonard Coleman DB Vanderbilt
9 ATL Rick Bryan DE Oklahoma College Stats
10 NYJ Russell Carter DB SMU
NFL May 1

Dutch Treat , Pro Football Hall of Fame Official Site provides a look at one of Norm Van Brocklin's top games.