Football History

Born January 31, 1913 in Boston, Massachussetts was Notre Dame and Boston Redskins star end, Wayne Millner who was eventually ienshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

College Career

Wayne Millner's collegiate career at Notre Dame cemented his reputation as a tough and talented two-way player. Playing under the legendary coach Frank Leahy, Millner was a key contributor to the Fighting Irish's success in the early 1930s. He excelled as both an end and a defensive back, showcasing his versatility and athleticism. While specific game statistics may be less readily available from that era, accounts of his play highlight his impact. He was known for his hard-nosed style, both as a receiver and a tackler. Millner's contributions were instrumental in Notre Dame's strong performances during his time there, laying the foundation for his future professional success. He embodied the spirit of Notre Dame football, demonstrating dedication and a relentless pursuit of excellence.  

Road to the Pro Game

Millner's path to professional football wasn't straightforward. While his talent was evident, the landscape of professional football in the 1930s was different than it is today. After his impressive college career, Millner entered the NFL and played for both the Brooklyn Dodgers and the Washington Redskins. During his time with the Redskins, he became a vital part of the team, contributing significantly to their success. He was a reliable target on offense and a force to be reckoned with on defense. Millner's professional career was interrupted by World War II, during which he served his country. This interruption underscores the dedication and sacrifice of athletes of that era. Upon his return from service, he continued his professional career, demonstrating the resilience and commitment that defined him.  

Football Legacy

Wayne Millner's legacy extends beyond his playing days. He is remembered as a tough, versatile player who excelled on both sides of the ball.

His contributions to both Notre Dame and the Washington Redskins solidified his place in football history. While individual statistics may not fully capture his impact, the stories and recollections of his contemporaries speak volumes about his talent and character. He was a respected figure both on and off the field, embodying the values of hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship. Millner's career, interrupted by military service, stands as a testament to his commitment to both his country and his sport. His legacy is one of grit, determination, and excellence, a reminder of the qualities that define the best football players. He represents a generation of players who played the game with passion and pride, leaving a lasting impact on the sport we know and love today.  


-Career history

As a player:

-Boston / Washington Redskins (1936–1941, 1945)

As a coach:

-Chicago Hornets (1949)

-Defensive backs coach

-Baltimore Colts (1950)

-Defensive backs coach

-Philadelphia Eagles (1951)

Interim head coach

-Washington Redskins (1952–1956)

-Defensive backs coach

-Hardin–Simmons (1957)

-Defensive backs coach

-Florida Blazers (1974)

-Defensive backs coach

-Career Highlights and Awards
-NFL champion (1937)

-NFL 1930s All-Decade Team

-80 Greatest Redskins

-Washington Commanders Ring of Fame

-Consensus All-American (1935)

-Career NFL statistics

-Games played: 76

-Games started: 52

-Receptions: 124

-Receiving yards: 1,578

-Receiving touchdowns: 12

Stats at Pro Football Reference Edit this at Wikidata

Born March 7, 1952, in Alcoa, Tennessee, was the graceful pass-catching wide out of the USC Trojans of the early 1970, Lynn Swann.

Swann forged a remarkable career as a wide receiver, leaving an indelible mark on college and professional football.  

-College Career

Swann's collegiate journey unfolded at the University of Southern California (USC), where he became a key component of the Trojans' potent offense. Under the guidance of legendary coach John McKay, he showcased his exceptional athleticism, leaping ability, and sure hands. He was vital to USC's success in the early 1970s, contributing to their national championship victories. His graceful style and clutch performances made him a favorite and a highly regarded player.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Swann's outstanding college career led to his selection in the first round (13th overall) of the 1974 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers. He spent his entire professional career with the Steelers, becoming a key figure in their dominant era of the 1970s.

-Football Legacy

Lynn Swann's football legacy is defined by his crucial role in the Pittsburgh Steelers' "Steel Curtain" dynasty. He was a key target for quarterback Terry Bradshaw, known for his acrobatic catches and ability to make big plays in crucial moments. He was vital to the Steelers' four Super Bowl victories (IX, X, XIII, and XIV). His performance in Super Bowl X, where he made several spectacular catches, including a leaping 53-yard reception, earned him the Super Bowl MVP award. He was known for his graceful style, intelligence, and clutch performances. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2001.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-4× Super Bowl champion (IX, X, XIII, XIV)

-Super Bowl X MVP  

-3× Pro Bowl (1975–1977)

-3× Second-team All-Pro (1975–1977)

-NFL 1970s All-Decade Team

-Pittsburgh Steelers All-Time Team

-College Football Hall of Fame inductee (1993)  

-Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee (2001)  

-Receptions: 336

-Receiving yards: 5,462  

-Receiving touchdowns: 51

-Career NFL statistics

Receptions: 336
Receiving yards: 5,462
Receiving touchdowns: 51

Stats at Pro-Football-Reference.com

Lynn Swann's combination of athleticism, grace, and clutch performances cemented his place among the NFL's greatest wide receivers and solidified his legacy as a key figure in the Pittsburgh Steelers' storied history.

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Born April 20, 1960, in Ypsilanti, Michigan, he was one of the best tight ends for the Tulane Green Wave, Rodney Holman.

Rodney, a standout tight end known for his sure hands and blocking prowess, enjoyed a successful career in both college and the NFL. His contributions to the game, particularly his role in the Cincinnati Bengals' high-powered offenses of the late 1980s, solidified his place in football history.  

-College Career

Holman's journey to the pros began at Tulane University, where he starred for the Green Wave. He was a two-sport athlete in high school, excelling in football and wrestling. Despite his wrestling accolades, Holman chose to focus on football and quickly became a key contributor for Tulane. His receiving skills and blocking ability made him a valuable asset, and he earned recognition as one of the top tight ends in the nation.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Holman's impressive college performance caught the attention of NFL scouts, and the Cincinnati Bengals drafted him in the third round of the 1982 NFL Draft. This marked the beginning of a prosperous professional career spanning 14 seasons.  

-Football Legacy

Holman spent most of his NFL career with the Bengals, becoming a favorite target of quarterback Boomer Esiason. He was crucial to the Bengals' offense that reached Super Bowl XXIII in 1989. While they fell short of victory, Holman's contributions were undeniable. He was a reliable receiver, a strong blocker, and a true professional, earning the respect of his teammates and opponents alike. He later played for the Detroit Lions before retiring after the 1995 season.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-2x Pro Bowl selection (1989, 1990)  

-Career Stats: 365 receptions, 4,789 receiving yards, 24 touchdowns

Rodney Holman's legacy is one of consistent excellence and reliability. He was a valuable asset to every team he played for, known for his dedication, toughness, and skill. While individual accolades may not fully capture his impact, his role in the Bengals' offensive success and consistent performance throughout his career cemented his place as a respected figure in NFL history.

Rodney Holman. (2025, February 19). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rodney_Holman

Born February 9, 1895 in Chicago was football legend Edward "Dutch" Sternaman.

Dutch Sternaman was a pivotal figure in the early days of professional football, leaving an indelible mark on the sport as a player, coach, and co-owner of the Chicago Bears.

-College Career

His journey began at the University of Illinois, where he starred as a halfback under the legendary coach Robert Zuppke. Sternaman's college career was interrupted by World War I, but he returned to lead the Illini to a Big Ten championship in 1919.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Sternaman's road to the pro game started with the Decatur Staleys, a team that would eventually become the Chicago Bears. In 1920, he led the Staleys in scoring, showcasing his versatility as a runner, passer, and kicker. The following year, he excelled, helping the Staleys establish themselves as a force in the nascent NFL.  

In 1922, Sternaman joined forces with his former Illinois teammate, George Halas, to form the Chicago Bears. As a player, Sternaman was a key contributor to the team's success, earning All-Pro honors in 1924 and 1925. He was a dynamic offensive weapon, capable of making big plays as both a runner and receiver. Sternaman also served as a coach for the Bears, helping to develop the team's strategies and instill a winning mentality.  

-Football Legacy

Sternaman's football legacy extends beyond his playing and coaching days. He was also a co-owner of the Bears, playing a crucial role in the team's growth and development. His business acumen and passion for the game helped to shape the Bears into one of the NFL's most iconic franchises.  

Throughout his career, Sternaman was known for his toughness, determination, and leadership. He was a respected figure on and off the field, earning the admiration of his teammates, coaches, and opponents. His contributions to the game were recognized in 2004 when he was named to the Chicago Bears' 100th-anniversary team.

Dutch Sternaman's impact on football is undeniable. He was a true pioneer, helping to lay the foundation for the modern NFL. His legacy as a player, coach, and owner will continue to inspire generations of football fans to come.

-Career highlights and Awards

-NFL champion (1921)

-CDN First-team All-Pro (1923)

-George Halas Second-team All-Pro (1922)

-Third-team All-Pro (1920)

-Career NFL Statistics

-Rushing touchdowns: 14

-Receiving touchdowns: 1

Stats at Pro Football Reference
Edward Sternaman. (2025, January 29). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edward_Sternaman

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Born August 12, 1913, in Redwood Falls, Minn, Ward Cuff was not just a typical athlete. His versatility was his strength. He excelled in various sports, from being a heavyweight boxer at Marquette University to holding the school record for javelin throw in track and field and shining on the football field as a star fullback for the Golden Eagles.

Playing the position of fullback for the Golden Eagles, Cuff was part of a team that played in the first Cotton Bowl in 1937 against TCU. Ward was far from being the feature back in college, but he was an effective blocker for their All-American halfback Ray Buivid, who was in the top three for the Heisman voting, and the talented brother rushing tandem of Al and Art Guepe. Giants Head Coach Steve Owen was able to navigate through the talent in the Golden Eagle backfield and chose Cuff with the Giant's fourth-round pick in the 1937 NFL Draft, which was the 34th overall selection that year. The 6'-1" 192 youngster was known for his blocking and stocking his shoulder to tackle the opposition when on defense.

Owen loved smart players who were very athletic in his single-platoon coaching era. Owen contrived the concept of having two squads of players that do a mass substitution at the change of quarters to give his team fresh legs and wear down an opponent. The Cuff was the focus of the rushing attack and a pivotal player of defense and countered the other Giants squad that had Tuffy Leemans as its premier athlete. Though the strategy was very effective in winning ball games, it could have been more conducive to providing standout statistics for players like Leemans and Cuff.

Owen innovatively used Ward's talents and even trained him to place kick. Coach Owen had this to say about his player, "Cuff had tremendous leg drive and an excellent sense of balance. I was not too certain about the third necessary qualification but that was speedily discovered when we scrimmaged. Mr. Cuff has nothing but ice water in his veins. Nothing rattles him. He looked like a perfect prospect."

At other times, Leemans, Ed Danowski, and Ward Cuff would be in the same backfield in what Coach Owens would deem the "A" formation, and Cuff's services as a dependable lead blocker would be employed.

-Ward Cuff: The Underrated Giant

Ward Cuff, a name often overshadowed by his more illustrious contemporaries, was a cornerstone of the New York Giants during their golden era. His impact on the team's success was undeniable, and his versatility as a runner, receiver, kicker, and defender was a testament to his athletic prowess.

Cuff's statistical prowess is impressive. He amassed over 1,800 rushing yards, showcasing his ability to break tackles and find the end zone. He rumbled for over 1,800 yards as a rusher and found the paydirt seven times, demonstrating his sure hands and knack for getting open. But his impact extended beyond offense. Cuff was a reliable kicker, converting 43 field goals, and his defensive contributions were invaluable. He was the NFL's leading kicker for multiple seasons.

While Cuff's accolades might not be as numerous as some of his peers, his consistent performance and versatility were instrumental in the Giants' success. He was an actual football player, excelling in multiple facets of the game. Though his career has often been overshadowed, Ward Cuff's contributions to the New York Giants legacy are undeniable.

Born May 4, 1978 in Akron, Ohio, James Harrison grew up to be one of the most feared and prolific pass rushers of his era.

-College Career

James Harrison's path to football stardom wasn't paved with immediate accolades. He played college football at Kent State University, but his time there was marked by challenges. While he showed flashes of potential, he also faced disciplinary issues that limited his playing time. He was dismissed from the team before his senior season due to an altercation, though he was later reinstated. Despite these setbacks, Harrison demonstrated a raw talent and ferocious playing style that would later define his professional career. His college career, while not overflowing with individual awards, laid the foundation for the disciplined and determined player he would become.  

-Road to the Pro Game

The road to the NFL was far from smooth for Harrison. He went undrafted in 2002, a significant blow for any aspiring professional player. Undeterred, he signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted free agent. He was cut multiple times by the Steelers and even spent time with the Rhein Fire of NFL Europe. His perseverance, however, was remarkable. He consistently impressed coaches with his strength and relentless work ethic. He eventually earned a spot on the Steelers' roster, proving his worth through special teams contributions and gradually earning more playing time at linebacker. His journey from undrafted free agent to NFL star is a testament to his dedication and refusal to give up on his dream.  

-Football Legacy

James Harrison's legacy is one of hard work, toughness, and explosive play. He became a cornerstone of the Steelers' defense, known for his incredible strength, speed, and bone-jarring hits.

He was a five-time Pro Bowler, two-time All-Pro, and the 2008 NFL Defensive Player of the Year. He played a crucial role in two Steelers Super Bowl victories, cementing his place in franchise history. Beyond the accolades, Harrison's legacy is defined by his relentless intensity and physical style of play. He was a force to be reckoned with, a player opponents feared. He became a symbol of the Steelers' blue-collar mentality and a role model for aspiring players. His journey from undrafted free agent to NFL superstar serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that with unwavering dedication and a relentless pursuit of excellence, even the longest of odds can be overcome. While his career was not without controversy, his impact on the game, particularly his contributions to the Steelers' success, solidified his place as one of the most impactful defensive players of his era.  
-Career history

-Pittsburgh Steelers (2002–2003)

-Baltimore Ravens (2004)*

→Rhein Fire (2004)

-Pittsburgh Steelers (2004–2012)

-Cincinnati Bengals (2013)

-Pittsburgh Steelers (2014–2017)

-New England Patriots (2017)
* Offseason and/or practice squad member only

-Career highlights and awards

-2× Super Bowl champion (XL, XLIII)

-NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2008)

-2× First-team All-Pro (2008, 2010)

-2× Second-team All-Pro (2007, 2009)

-5× Pro Bowl (2007–2011)

-NFL forced fumbles leader (2008)

-Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor

-Career NFL statistics

-Total tackles: 811

-Sacks: 84.5

-Forced fumbles: 34

-Fumble recoveries: 9

-Interceptions: 8

-Defensive touchdowns: 1

Stats at Pro Football Reference
James Harrison (American football). (2025, January 21). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Harrison_(American_football)

Henry Jordan was born January 26, 1935 in Emporia, Virginia. He would go on to become a Pro Football Hall of Fame superstar on defense.

Jordan wasn't a prototypical defensive tackle. At 6-1 and 230 pounds, he seemed undersized in a world of giants. Yet, for ten seasons in the NFL, Jordan defied expectations, carving his name in football history as one of the most dominant interior linemen ever.

His journey began in rural Virginia, where his athleticism shone through in both football and wrestling. He later excelled at the University of Virginia, becoming a captain and All-American on the gridiron and an NCAA runner-up wrestler. This blend of power and technique would lay the foundation for his professional success.

Drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 1957, Jordan found himself under the legendary tutelage of Vince Lombardi. Lombardi recognized Jordan's exceptional talent and encouraged him to develop his mental agility as much as his physical strength. Thus, the "bag of tricks" was born – a repertoire of deceptive moves and relentless hustle that allowed Jordan to outsmart and overpower much larger offensive linemen.

His on-field impact was immediate. Jordan anchored the Packers' defensive line, his relentless pursuit of quarterbacks earning him the nickname "The Country Parson" for his fierce determination. He racked up an impressive resume: five Pro Bowl selections, two NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards, and a key role in Green Bay's five NFL championships in the 1960s.

But Big Number 74's legacy extends beyond statistics. He was a leader, a motivator, and a source of comic relief for his teammates. His quotable personality and jovial spirit earned him the reputation as the "life of the party" on and off the field. He was revered by Lombardi, who famously proclaimed, "We treat everyone the same. Like dogs."

Sadly, Jordan's career was cut short due to knee injuries in 1967. However, his influence on the game continued. He remained an advisor to Lombardi and later became a successful businessman. In 1979, he was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, a fitting tribute to his remarkable career.

-College Career:

At the University of Virginia, Henry Jordan excelled as a two-sport star. He was a standout football player, serving as team captain his senior year, and also a dominant wrestler, achieving All-American status in 1957.  

-Road to the Pro Game:

Drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round of the 1957 NFL Draft, Jordan initially played for the Browns before being traded to the Green Bay Packers in 1959.  

-Football Legacy:

In Green Bay, Jordan blossomed into a cornerstone of Vince Lombardi's legendary defense. A five-time NFL champion and a seven-time All-Pro selection, Jordan was a dominant force on the defensive line. His relentless pursuit of the quarterback and his ferocious play style made him one of the most feared defenders of his era. Jordan's impact extended beyond his on-field accomplishments. He was a respected leader and a key figure in the Packers' dynasty of the 1960s, contributing significantly to their five NFL titles and two Super Bowl victories.  

-Career History

-Cleveland Browns (1957–1958)

-Green Bay Packers (1959–1969)

-Career highlights and Awards

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

-2 Time Super Bowl champion (I, II)

-7 Time All-Pro (1960–1964, 1966, 1967)

-4 Time Pro Bowl (1960, 1961, 1963, 1966)

-Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame

-Career NFL Statistics[]

-Games played: 163

Stats at Pro Football Reference

Henry Jordan. (2024, September 6). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henry_Jordan

Join Darin Hayes as he delves into a fascinating exploration of an alternative numbering system in football history with Timothy P. Brown from footballarchae... — www.youtube.com

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Darin Hayes and Timothy P. Brown engage in a rich exploration of the history of player numbering systems in American football, a topic that reveals much about the sport's evolution.

Of course, this discussion all stems from Tim's original article titled: Factoid Feast I.

The audio-only podcast of the discussion can be found at: The Mystery of Football's Numbering: What Could Have Been.

The episode opens with Brown discussing the lack of a standardized numbering system prior to 1940, highlighting how players could choose any number they desired, leading to a chaotic situation on the field. Brown references a pivotal article written by Bob Balfe, which proposed a systematic approach to numbering, suggesting that backs wear numbers 1 through 4 while linemen should be designated numbers 5 through 11. This notion, while innovative, was not adopted until the NCAA established its own rules in 1941, which categorized players based on their positions and assigned specific number ranges accordingly.

The discussion delves into the practical implications of these numbering conventions, particularly in the context of officiating and game strategy. As football evolved into a two-platoon system, the need for clarity in player identification became crucial. Brown explains how the established numbering system aids officials in determining eligibility for passing plays and how it has become an integral part of the sport's infrastructure. The conversation also touches on the historical resistance to change by certain coaches who preferred more traditional methods, leading to entertaining anecdotes about teams that defied the norm by utilizing unique numbering schemes. This backdrop serves not just as a historical account but also as a reflection on how football has adapted over time, balancing tradition with the need for modernization.

Listeners are treated to a blend of historical facts, insightful commentary, and engaging stories that paint a vivid picture of American football's past. Hayes encourages listeners to visit footballarchaeology.com for more in-depth exploration of these topics, emphasizing the importance of understanding the historical context of the game. The episode thus serves not only as an informative piece on numbering systems but also as an invitation to appreciate the rich tapestry of football history, highlighting the contributions of individuals like Bob Balfe and Timothy P. Brown in preserving and sharing these fascinating narratives.

[b]Takeaways

-The podcast discusses the evolution of player numbering in American football, highlighting its history.

-Timothy P. Brown explains Bob Balfe's proposed numbering system for football players from 1940.

-The NCAA standardized football player numbering in 1941, influencing how players are identified today.

-The discussion covers the rationale behind different numbering systems for various player positions.

-There was a time when players wore four-digit numbers, showcasing historical resistance to standardization.

The podcast also touches on the potential for future changes in numbering conventions.

The dual-threat quarterback Kyler Murray was born August 7, 1997, in Bedford, Texas. Kyler Murray's journey to NFL stardom was anything but conventional. His exceptional athletic abilities were evident from a young age, leading him to excel in both football and baseball.

His ultimate decision to pursue football, while initially surprising to some, has proven to be a resounding success.

-College Career

Murray's college career began at Texas A&M University, where he played one season before transferring to the University of Oklahoma. His time with the Sooners was nothing short of spectacular. In his lone season as the starting quarterback (2018), he led Oklahoma to a Big 12 Championship and a spot in the College Football Playoff. His dual-threat ability, combining a strong arm with exceptional speed and elusiveness, made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Heisman Trophy voters recognized his incredible season, awarding him the coveted trophy, solidifying his place among college football's elite.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Despite his baseball prowess, Murray declared his intention to pursue a career in the NFL. This decision set the stage for a unique draft scenario, as he was also a highly regarded baseball prospect. Ultimately, the Arizona Cardinals selected him with the first overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, making him the first player ever drafted in the first round of both the NFL and MLB drafts.  

-Football Legacy

Murray's impact on the NFL has been immediate and significant. His dynamic playmaking ability has revitalized the Cardinals' offense, making them one of the most exciting teams to watch. His presence has forced defenses to adapt, showcasing the evolution of the quarterback position in the modern NFL. While still early in his professional career, Murray has already established himself as a star and a cornerstone of the Cardinals franchise.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Heisman Trophy (2018)  

-AP Player of the Year (2018)  

-Davey O'Brien Award (2018)  

-Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year (2018)  

Kyler Murray's legacy is still being written. His electrifying play and his dedication to the game of football have made him a fan favorite and a player to watch for years to come. His unique path, navigating the worlds of both football and baseball, has added an intriguing chapter to his story. As he continues to grow and develop as a professional quarterback, Murray has the potential to achieve even greater heights and solidify his place among the NFL's best.

William Fuller, born March 8, 1962 in Norfolk, Virginia, established himself as a dominant defensive tackle, leaving a lasting impact at both the collegiate and professional levels.  

The brilliant defensive tackle of the University of North Carolina Tar Heels in the years of 1981 to 1983 had a skill set that helped him to earn an awe-inspiring feat of being a two-time First-Team All-American selection. Fuller left the Tarheels holding some stellar school records.

-College Career

Fuller's collegiate career unfolded at the University of North Carolina (UNC), where he played defensive line from 1981 to 1983. He was known for his exceptional quickness and ability to disrupt opposing offenses. He amassed impressive statistics, including 57 tackles for loss and single-season records of 22 tackles for loss in both 1981 and 1983. He recorded 9 sacks as a sophomore, and 81 tackles and 5 sacks as a senior. He was a two-time First-Team All-American and a three-time All-ACC selection. He was also a two-time finalist for the Outland Trophy. He helped lead the Tar Heels to three bowl games, and was named UNC's defensive MVP in his senior year. He graduated in 1986 with a degree in psychology.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Fuller was selected by the Philadelphia Stars in the 1984 USFL Territorial Draft, and by the Los Angeles Rams in the 1984 NFL Supplemental Draft. He chose to play in the USFL, winning two championships with the Stars. After the USFL folded, he joined the Houston Oilers in the NFL. He also played for the Philadelphia Eagles and the San Diego Chargers.  

-Football Legacy

His consistent excellence and longevity define William Fuller's football legacy. He was a dominant force in the NFL, recording 100.5 sacks over his 13-year career. He was a four-time All-Pro and a four-time Pro Bowl selection. His impact extended beyond statistics, as he was known for his leadership and dedication. His college career was equally impressive, and he is remembered as one of the greatest defensive players in UNC history.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Two-time First-Team All-American (1982, 1983)

-Three-time All-ACC selection

-Two-time Outland Trophy finalist

-Two USFL championships

-Four-time NFL Pro Bowl selection

-Four-time NFL All-Pro selection

-100.5 NFL sacks  

-College Football Hall of Fame inductee (2016)

-UNC Sports Hall of Fame inductee

-ACC 50th Anniversary Football Team selection.