Born November 2, 1945, in Groveland, Georgia, Larry Little, the great NFL offensive tackle, played college football for Bethune-Cookman College in Daytona Beach, Florida, where he was an All-Conference player. The Pro Football Hall of Fame’s website bio reports that Little was an unheralded undrafted free pick-up by the San Diego Chargers in 1967. After a couple of seasons with the Chargers, they traded his rights to the Miami Dolphins, and that is when Larry’s career really turned to the positive. With Miami, he became a dominant blocker for the powerful Dolphin teams of the early 1970s, including the undefeated Super Bowl Champion team of 1972, a game where the Phins rushed for 2960 yards! Larry Little earned the award of being the NFL Player’s Association’s AFC Lineman of the Year in 3 consecutive seasons of 1970, 1971 & 1972. The great blocker played a total of 14 NFL seasons, made the Pro Bowl 6 times, and was an NFL All-Pro 6 times, too. The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined Larry Little in 1993.
A Pillar of the Miami Dolphins
Football Hall of Fame | Larry Little, A Pillar of the Miami Dolphins
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A select few NFL players are selected to be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. This museum and its content stands as a monument to the gridiron greats, their enshrinement a testament to their lasting impact on the sport.
By honoring these legends, we gain a deeper appreciation for the history and evolution of professional football. Each Hall of Famer represents a specific era, their stories chronicling the game's transformation from its rugged beginnings to the modern marvel it is today. From the early days of Vince Lombardi's coaching genius to the aerial acrobatics of Joe Montana, these players embody the innovation and athletic development that have shaped the game. By celebrating their achievements, we celebrate the rich tapestry of professional football, ensuring that the incredible feats of the past continue to inspire future generations. We are proud to help the Hall to salute these gridiron greats with bios and stories of what made them special in the arena of football history and their impact on the game.
A Pillar of the Miami Dolphins
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.
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.
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