Football History

---

Reuben "Rube" Ursella wasn't a household name in the fledgling years of professional football, but his impact on the game stretches from the sandlots to the early days of the National Football League (NFL). This essay explores Ursella's career, highlighting his role as a player-coach who helped bridge the gap between the sport's rough beginnings and a more organized future.

Ursella's football journey began in his hometown of Minneapolis, Minnesota. He played quarterback for various amateur and semi-professional teams from 1907 to 1917, a time when football was a brutal and evolving sport. In 1916, he even served as a "ringer" for a team in West Duluth, showcasing his talent and versatility.

During World War I, Ursella's athletic prowess continued to shine. He played football for his unit's service team in France, demonstrating his dedication to the sport even amidst the chaos of war. Upon returning home, Ursella chose to settle in Rock Island, Illinois, where he took on the dual role of player and coach for the Rock Island Independents.

Ursella's leadership and strategic mind were instrumental in the Independents' success. He even led the team to a self-proclaimed national championship in 1919, a testament to their dominance in the region. His coaching philosophy, likely honed through years of playing the game, emphasized discipline and teamwork, elements that were becoming increasingly important as professional football gained structure.

Beyond the Rock Island Independents, Ursella's career extended to stints with several early NFL teams, including the Minneapolis Marines/Red Jackets, Akron Indians, and Hammond Pros. While his individual playing statistics are not readily available, his presence on these rosters indicates his continued skills and dedication to the sport.

Rube Ursella retired in 1926 after a remarkable career that spanned the early years of professional football. He witnessed the game's transformation from a loosely organized competition to a more structured league. His contributions as a player, coach, and leader helped pave the way for the sport's continued growth and evolution. Though his name may not be etched in the record books, Rube Ursella's legacy lies in his role as a pioneer who helped bridge the gap between football's formative years and the organized professional sport we recognize today.

Born January 11, 1890 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, was legendary professional football player and Coach, Rube Ursella. Ursella began his pro football career in 1907 with the Minneapolis Marines. Rube Ursella was the true centerpiece of the team. He was both an offensive and defensive standout, as well as a skilled kicker and punter. During his NFL career Rube played for the Minneapolis Marines, Akron Indians, Hammond Pros, Minneapolis Red Jackets and the Rock Island Independents.

The Miami Dolphins are one of the most iconic franchises in the history of the National Football League. With a rich tradition of success and a passionate fan base, the Dolphins have produced some of the greatest players of all time. As a testament to their legendary status, the Dolphins have retired several jersey numbers to honor those who have made an indelible mark on the franchise.

In this series, we will delve into the stories behind each of the retired jersey numbers, exploring the careers of the players who earned this prestigious honor. From the glory days of the undefeated 1972 Dolphins to the modern era of dominance, we will examine the impact these players had on the team and the game of football as a whole.

Join us as we celebrate the legacy of the Miami Dolphins and the remarkable individuals whose numbers will forever be enshrined in team history.

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

-Jersey Number 12
Bob Griese 1967–1980

-Jersey Number 13
Dan Marino 1983–1999

-Jersey Number 39
Larry Csonka 1968–1974


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.

The Buffalo Bills have a relatively small but highly revered group of retired jersey numbers.

This exclusive honor is reserved for players who have made indelible marks on the franchise. Jim Kelly, the Hall of Fame quarterback who led the Bills to four consecutive Super Bowl appearances, has his number 12 retired. Thurman Thomas, the dynamic running back who was a cornerstone of those same Super Bowl teams, is honored with the retired number 34. Finally, the dominant defensive end Bruce Smith, whose relentless pursuit of quarterbacks defined an era, has his number 78 retired. These three numbers are synonymous with Bills history and are a testament to the greatness of these players.

Here are the Numbers that the Bills Franchise no longer issues in respect for the players that made them famous:

-Jersey Number 12
Jim Kelly

-Jersey Number 34
Thurmon Thomas

-Jersey Number 78
Bruce Smith

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 are some of the most unique football jerseys in history? Gridiron jerseys with logos on the front were once a fad. Check out this story titled Football Jerseys with Emblems.

-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.

-Who are some of the most famous NFL players at each jersey number? From Red Grange's jersey number 77 to Tom Brady's iconic number 12, several NFL players made their digits proud. Want to know more? You are in the right place, as we covered all 100 jersey numbers, and the best way to wear each is About Football By Numbers.

The New England Patriots have a rich history filled with legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the franchise. As a testament to their greatness, the Patriots have retired certain jersey numbers, honoring those who have contributed significantly to the team's success. Let’s dive into the world of retired Patriots numbers and explore the traditions surrounding this esteemed recognition.

Here is a look at the jerseys that the franchise has taken out of circulation and the individuals honored:

-Jersey Number 12
Tom Brady 2000-2019

-Jersey Number 20
Gino Cappelletti 1960–1970

-Jersey Number 40
Mike Haynes 1976–1982

-Jersey Number 57
Steve Nelson 1974–1987

-Jersey Number 73
John Hannah 1973–1985

-Jersey Number 78
Bruce Armstrong 1987–2000

-Jersey Number 79
Jim Lee Hunt 1960–1970

-Jersey Number 89
Bob Dee 1960–1967