Football History

Kenny Washington was Born on August 31, 1918, in Los Angeles, California. He was a tailback from UCLA. Washington has the distinction of being the first African American player to sign a contract in the NFL in the common era (after World War II) with the L.A. Rams after playing in the Pacific Coast League with the Hollywood Bears.

As a running back, Washington displayed remarkable speed, agility, and a knack for finding the end zone. In 1939, he led the nation in total offense, earning All-American honors and setting a school rushing record that stood for decades.  As a collegian, Kenny Washington rushed for 9,975 yards, which was a Bruin record for over 56 years! He was also UCLA's very first-ever consensus All-American in 1939.

Despite his extraordinary achievements, Washington faced formidable racial barriers in his pursuit of a professional football career. The NFL was segregated at the time, and it was not until 1946 that he, along with Marion Motley, became the first African American player to sign with NFL teams since the 1930s. Washington's signing with the Los Angeles Rams marked a significant milestone in the fight against racial discrimination in sports, a testament to his resilience and determination.  

Though his playing career was relatively short due to injuries, Washington's impact on the NFL was profound. He paved the way for countless African American athletes who followed in his footsteps. His courage and determination helped break down racial barriers and made the NFL a more inclusive sport. Washington's legacy as a pioneer in football continues to inspire and will undoubtedly shape the future of the sport for generations to come.  Mr. Washington was enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame in 1956.

Born May 1, 1930, in Trinity, Texas, was the University of San Francisco’s stud halfback of 1949 to 1951, Ollie Matson. Matson, a trailblazer in the realm of professional football, left an indelible mark on both the college and pro game. Hailing from Georgia, Matson's athletic prowess was evident from a young age. He attended the University of Georgia, where he excelled as a running back, earning All-American honors.

Ollie finished as a contender for the Heisman Trophy. After that season, he turned around and won the silver and bronze medals in the 1952 Olympic Games! The College Football Hall of Fame proudly placed a display in honor of Ollie Matson in their legendary museum in 1976. In 1952 Matson was the number one overall pick by the Chicago Cardinals in the NFL Draft.

Matson's college success translated seamlessly to the professional level. Drafted by the Chicago Cardinals in 1952, he quickly established himself as one of the league's premier running backs. Known for his elusive running style, Matson's ability to make defenders miss tackles and find open space was unmatched. He consistently led the league in rushing yards and touchdowns, earning numerous Pro Bowl selections and even winning the NFL MVP award in 1955.

Beyond his individual accomplishments, Matson also played a significant role in breaking down racial barriers in the NFL. As one of the first African American players to achieve widespread success and recognition, he helped pave the way for future generations of Black athletes. Matson's contributions to the game extended beyond the field, as he became a respected figure in the community and a role model for aspiring athletes. His legacy as a pioneering running back and a trailblazer in the fight for racial equality will continue to inspire future generations.

He played well for the Cards but was traded to the Rams in 1959 for nine players! You can learn more about that trade here. Ollie racked up over 12,000 yards of total offense in the League and was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1972.

Forget flashy interceptions and highlight-reel pick-sixes. Aeneas Williams, the "Shutdown Corner King," ruled the gridiron with a different kind of dominance – relentless defense, suffocating coverage, and an unwavering commitment to shutting down the league's best receivers. This essay tackles the remarkable career of Williams, a cornerback whose impact on the game transcended statistics and earned him a well-deserved spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

-Early Life, From Small-School Star to NFL Champion

Born January 29, 1968 - The great defensive back from Southern University, Aeneas Williams was born. He honed his skills at Southern University, racking up interceptions and showcasing exceptional technique.

-NFL Career

Drafted in the third round by the Phoenix Cardinals (later Arizona Cardinals) in 1991, Williams wasn't a household name. But his talent was undeniable. The Cardinals saw his potential, and Williams quickly blossomed into a lockdown corner. His career highlights are a defensive coordinator's dream.

-Eight Pro Bowls: A testament to his consistent excellence, Williams was a constant presence among the league's elite defensive backs.

-NFL interceptions co-leader (1994): He shut down opposing offenses with such efficiency that he shared the league lead in interceptions alongside some of the most feared defenders of his era.

-Three First-Team All-Pro selections: His dominance wasn't just respected, it was undeniable. These honors showcase the years where he was considered the absolute best at his position.

-Super Bowl Champion (St. Louis Rams, 2000): While his career was primarily spent with the Cardinals, Williams found championship glory later in his career with the St.. Louis Rams.

-Beyond the Stats

A Masterful Technician: What truly set Williams apart was his technique. His footwork was impeccable, allowing him to mirror even the most elusive receivers. He possessed exceptional ball skills, consistently breaking up passes and coming away with interceptions. Most importantly, Williams had the mentality of a true shutdown corner – he wasn't afraid to challenge receivers at the line of scrimmage and disrupt their routes all game long.

Aeneas played in the NFL for 14 seasons after being the Arizona Cardinals 3rd round pick in 1991. For his first 12 seasons, he manned the cornerback position and then moved to Safety for his final two years.

Williams played in 8 Pro Bowls and recorded 55 career interceptions with 807 yards returned off of them. One of his highlight moments occurred in a 2000 game against Washington when he returned a fumble 104 yards for a score. The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined Aeneas Williams in 2014.

Born August 3, 1938, in Forkland, Alabama, was Maxie Baughan former center from Georgia Tech was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1988 per his NFF bio. A standout linebacker at Georgia Tech, Baughan's collegiate career was marked by exceptional athleticism and leadership. His ability to diagnose plays, shed blockers, and deliver devastating hits earned him All-American honors and a spot in the College Football Hall of Fame.  

Selected in the second round of the 1960 NFL Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles, Baughan quickly established himself as one of the league's premier defenders. Known for his relentless pursuit of the quarterback and his uncanny ability to make plays in the backfield, Baughan was a force to be reckoned with. His dominance on the field helped lead the Eagles to a Super Bowl championship in his rookie season, and he continued to excel throughout his career.  

When he went into the NFL, he switched sides of the ball and played linebacker for the Philadelphia Eagles, LA Rams, and Washington Redskins. His pro career combined for 11 seasons, where he made the Pro Bowl 9 times and was voted as an All-Pro 2 times. He was on the Eagles 1960 NFL Championship team.

Born July 25, 1914, in Los Angeles, California legendary football End and trailblazer, Woody Strode. Woody famously played in the the UCLA Bruins back field dubbed the Gold Dust Trio along with Jackie Robinson and Kenny Washington.

Woody Strode, a towering figure in the world of sports, left an indelible mark on both college and professional football. As a standout athlete at the University of Minnesota, Strode's exceptional talent and physical prowess earned him a place in the school's Hall of Fame. His contributions extended beyond the gridiron, as he also excelled in track and field.

Strode's journey into professional football was groundbreaking. Drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in 1951, he became one of the first African American players to break the color barrier in the NFL. Facing prejudice and discrimination, Strode persevered and demonstrated his exceptional abilities on the field. His strength, speed, and versatility made him a formidable opponent, earning him the respect of teammates and opponents alike.

Beyond his football accomplishments, Strode's impact extended into the realm of acting. His imposing physique and commanding presence led to roles in numerous films, including the iconic "Spartacus." Strode's career served as an inspiration to countless athletes and individuals, demonstrating that talent and determination can overcome adversity.

He went on with K. Washington to break racial barriers in the NFL as a member of the LA Rams, and later the CFL's Calgary Stampeders. After football he became a Hollywood and actor and can be found in such classics as the Posse, Cotton Club, Vigilante, and Scream.

The Los Angeles Rams, one of the most storied franchises in the National Football League, have a rich history filled with legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the game. As a tribute to their contributions, the Rams have retired several jersey numbers, honoring those who have excelled both on and off the field.

In this series, we will delve into the significance of each retired number, exploring the careers of the players who made them iconic. We will uncover the stories behind their achievements, their impact on the Rams organization, and their lasting legacy in the world of football.

From Hall of Famers to fan favorites, these retired numbers represent the very best of the Rams franchise. Join us as we celebrate the greatness of these players and the numbers they made famous.

Here are the honored players and their numbers that are not issued in LA anymore:

-Jersey Number 7
Bob Waterfield 1945–1952

-Jersey Number 28
Marshall Faulk 1999–2006

-Jersey Number 29
Eric Dickerson 1983–1987

-Jersey Number 74
Merlin Olsen 1962–1976

-Jersey Number 75
Deacon Jones 1961–1971

-Jersey Number 78
Jackie Slater 1976–1995

-Jersey Number 80
Isaac Bruce 1994–2007

-Jersey Number 85
Jack Youngblood 1971–1984


If you love football jersey designs and evolution, wait until you check out the History of American Football Jersey.

-Football Jersey Frequently Asked Questions

-What are American football jerseys made of? Modern jerseys are made of synthetic fibers such as polyester or a blend of different materials such as spandex. For more, check out our in-depth study of The Makeup and Materials of Football Jerseys.

-What NFL franchise(s) has/have the most retired jersey numbers? The Chicago Bears and the New York Giants each lead the league with 14 different numbers retired. They have to duplicate when 90-man rosters are in effect.

-When did football jerseys start having numbers on them? Though there was documented talk of it since 1894, players only wore digits in a 1905 Iowa State at Drake game. Check out more on this story The Origins Of Football Player Numbers.

-Whose college football jersey was the first to be retired? Red Grange's Number 77 Ilinois Illini jersey was the first college uni shelved in 1925. There were a couple more about the same time, and we chatted with a college football expert historian to help divulge College Football and its First Retired Jerseys.

Born February 23, 1950, in Union, South Carolina, Jim Youngblood, a linebacker renowned for his tenacity and leadership, forged a distinguished career in American football. His journey from Tennessee Tech to the Los Angeles Rams is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the sport.  

-College Career

Youngblood's collegiate career at Tennessee Tech University laid the foundation for his professional success. He was a standout linebacker for the Golden Eagles, known for his hard-hitting style and exceptional instincts. His performance on the field earned him recognition as one of the team's top defensive players. Although Tennessee Tech was a smaller program, Youngblood's talent was undeniable, attracting the attention of NFL scouts.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Youngblood's impressive college performance led to his selection by the Los Angeles Rams in the second round of the 1973 NFL Draft. This marked the beginning of a remarkable NFL career.

-Football Legacy

Jim Youngblood established himself as a cornerstone of the Los Angeles Rams' defense during the 1970s and early 1980s. He was a versatile linebacker, capable of making impactful plays against both the run and the pass. His leadership qualities were also highly valued, as he became a respected figure in the Rams' locker room. Youngblood was a key contributor to the Rams' consistent success during this era, helping the team reach Super Bowl XIV. He became known for his toughness, and for always being a player his team could count on. His overall impact on the rams defense has allowed him to have a great football legacy.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Key Los Angeles Rams team member that reached Super Bowl XIV.  
-Played a significant role in the Rams' strong defensive units of the late 1970s and early 1980s.  

-Known for his longevity and consistent performance.

Jim Youngblood's legacy is one of consistent excellence and unwavering dedication. He was a vital part of the Los Angeles Rams' successful era, leaving an enduring mark on the team and the NFL.


Sources and related content:

-Pro-Football-Reference.com

-footballfoundation.org bio of Jim Youngblood

Wikipedia bio of Jim Youngblood

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Norm Van Brocklin's NFL career wasn't a linear path to glory. It was a journey marked by resilience, adaptation, and a pioneering spirit that helped revolutionize the quarterback position. Drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in 1949, Van Brocklin's early years were a struggle. The league was dominated by a run-first mentality, and passing was seen as a risky proposition.

Born March 15, 1926, in Parade, South Dakota, was the legendary Oregon Quarterback Norm Van Brocklin. He could quickly read the defenses and do what came automatically to him, find the open receiver for a gain. Norm was gifted with a peripheral vision that allowed him to take into view the entire panorama of play. In 1966 Norm Van Brocklin's collegiate story was placed into the College Football Hall of Fame.

Norm left Oregon while still having a year of eligibility left. The Rams used their number four pick in the 1949 Draft to pick Norm.

However, Van Brocklin possessed a strong arm and a deep understanding of the passing game. He chafed under the conservative offensive schemes of the time, yearning for a system that unleashed his talents. His frustration led to a trade to the Baltimore Colts in 1951. While his time there was short-lived, it marked a turning point. Under coach Weeb Ewbank, Van Brocklin was finally given the green light to throw. He thrived, setting a single-game passing record of 554 yards, a feat that stood for nearly two decades.

In 1954, Van Brocklin landed with the Philadelphia Eagles, reuniting with coach Ewbank. Together, they implemented a revolutionary passing attack dubbed the "Run and Shoot." This innovative scheme emphasized short, quick passes that exploited defensive weaknesses. Van Brocklin, with his accuracy and leadership, became the perfect conductor for this new offense. The Eagles flourished, reaching the NFL Championship game in 1960.

Van Brocklin's impact extended beyond on-field performance. He was a vocal advocate for the passing game, urging coaches and fans to embrace its potential. His success helped pave the way for future generations of quarterbacks who thrived in pass-heavy offenses.

However, injuries hampered Van Brocklin throughout his career. Back problems forced him to retire in 1960, leaving many to wonder what heights he could have reached with better health. Despite a relatively short playing career, his influence is undeniable. He is credited with being one of the first quarterbacks to truly master the art of passing, a skill that would come to define the modern NFL.

Beyond his statistical achievements, Van Brocklin is also remembered for his leadership and competitive spirit. He was a player who demanded excellence from himself and his teammates. Notably, he became the only quarterback in NFL history to lead two different teams (the Eagles and the Rams) to league championship games.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame says that even splitting time with fellow HOF QB Bob Waterfield, Van Brocklin won the NFL passing title in 1950, 52 & 54, playing for both the Los Angeles Rams and the Philadelphia Eagles leading Philly to the NFL’s championship title in 1960. Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined him in 1971.

March 6, 1892 in the town of St. Cloud, Minnesota, a football legend was born, Calrk Shaughnnessy. Coach Shaughnessy, a name often whispered with reverence in football circles, was more than just a coach; he was an innovator, a visionary who reshaped the very fabric of the game.

His contributions to both college and professional football, particularly his popularization of the T-formation, cemented his legacy as one of the most influential figures in the sport's history.

Shaughnessy's coaching career spanned decades and touched numerous institutions. He made his mark at the collegiate level, leading teams like Tulane, Loyola (New Orleans), and the University of Chicago. However, his most transformative work came at Stanford University in 1940. Taking over a struggling program, Shaughnessy introduced his modernized version of the T-formation, an offensive scheme that emphasized balance, misdirection, and the quarterback's role as a key playmaker. The result was a stunning undefeated season, a Rose Bowl victory, and a revolution in offensive football.

The impact of Shaughnessy's T-formation extended far beyond Stanford. It quickly became the dominant offensive system in college football, and its influence permeated the professional ranks as well. Shaughnessy himself transitioned to the NFL, coaching the Los Angeles Rams and serving as an advisor to the Chicago Bears, where he further refined his tactical approaches. His innovative defensive strategies also proved highly effective, demonstrating his comprehensive understanding of the game.

Shaughnessy's legacy is multifaceted. He not only popularized the T-formation but also contributed to the evolution of the forward pass, making it a more integral part of the offensive attack. His emphasis on strategic thinking and adaptability laid the foundation for modern football strategy. He was a tireless experimenter, constantly seeking ways to improve and refine his methods, earning him a reputation as a true pioneer.

Clark Shaughnessy's contributions to football are immeasurable. He was a true visionary, a master strategist, and an innovator who forever changed the way the game is played. His influence continues to resonate in the modern game, making him a true legend of the sport.

-Playing Career

-Football
1911–1913 Minnesota

-Position(s) Fullback, tackle, end

-Coaching Career (HC unless noted){/b]
[b]Football

-1914 Minnesota (assistant)

-1915–1920 Tulane

-1922–1926 Tulane

-1927–1932 Loyola (LA)

-1933–1939 Chicago

-1940–1941 Stanford

-1942 Maryland

-1943–1945 Pittsburgh

-1944–1947 Washington Redskins (advisor)

-1946 Maryland

-1948–1949 Los Angeles Rams

-1951–1962 Chicago Bears (DC)

-1965 Hawaii

-Head coaching record

-Overall 150–117–17 (college football)

-14–7–3 (NFL)

Clark Shaughnessy. (2024, December 5). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clark_Shaughnessy

Jack Youngblood, was born January 26, 1950 in Jacksonville, Florida and set out on a path of football path greatness. His journey began at the University of Florida, where he honed his skills as a dominant defensive end. A standout performer, Youngblood earned All-American honors in 1970, showcasing his exceptional athleticism and relentless pursuit of the quarterback.

-College Career

At the University of Florida, Jack Youngblood excelled as a defensive end. He set a school record for sacks (14) in 1969 and was named a first-team All-American in 1970. His impressive collegiate career culminated in being selected in the first round of the 1971 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Rams.

-Road to the Pro Game

On the Rams Youngblood quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. His relentless motor and ferocious pass rush made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. Throughout his 14-year career, all with the Rams, Youngblood amassed numerous accolades, including seven Pro Bowl selections and five First-Team All-Pro honors.  

-Football Legacy

However, Youngblood's legacy extends far beyond his impressive statistics. His unwavering determination and commitment to excellence became legendary. In the 1979 NFC Championship game against the Dallas Cowboys, Youngblood suffered a broken leg, a devastating injury that should have sidelined him for the season. Yet, fueled by an indomitable will, he returned to the field just two weeks later, playing through excruciating pain to help lead the Rams to the Super Bowl. This display of grit and courage cemented his status as one of the toughest and most inspirational figures in NFL history.

Jack Youngblood's impact on the game transcended his on-field achievements. He served as a role model for aspiring athletes, demonstrating that perseverance and dedication can overcome even the most daunting obstacles. His legacy continues to inspire generations of players and fans, reminding us that true greatness is often forged in the face of adversity.

-Career highlights and Awards

-5× First-team All-Pro (1974–1976, 1978, 1979)

-3× Second-team All-Pro (1973, 1977, 1980)

-7× Pro Bowl (1973–1979)

-2× NFL sacks leader (1974, 1979)

-NFL 1970s All-Decade Team

-St. Louis Football Ring of Fame

-Los Angeles Rams No. 85 retired

-First-team All-American (1970)

-First-team All-SEC (1970)

-Florida Football Ring of Honor (2006)

-Career NFL statistics

-Games played: 202

-Games started: 187

-Sacks: 151.5

-Fumble recoveries: 10

-Safeties: 2

Stats at Pro Football Reference

Jack Youngblood. (2024, December 19). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_Youngblood