Our subject player in this edition is a Pro Football Hall of Fame multi-faceted talent of the New York Giants. Born Alphonse Emil Leemans on November 12, 1912, by his admission, he would have accepted any nickname to be recognized on the gridiron. The handle came about when Leemans was a kid, as he often played tackle football on the sandlots with older, bigger kids and was not afraid of the riggers of the more prominent, stronger players. You had to be tough to play with them as a little guy. Thus, Tuffy was an apt description of the ambitious youngster. The name "Tuffy" provided a more than adequate name for a football player and indicated the style Mr Leemans leaned toward. The Moniker was out of necessity to extend his college career into the pro ranks.
Leemans' journey to football stardom began in his hometown high school in Superior, Wisconsin. He then ventured West to play freshman ball in Oregon before deciding to complete his collegiate career at George Washington University. His time with the George Washington Colonials showcased his versatility, as he amassed 2,382 rushing yards, threw for 966 yards, and returned 84 punts for 984 yards, a total of 3142 total NFL yards of production. His ability to excel in multiple roles on the field was a testament to his adaptability and skill.
Thanks to a somewhat improbable course, Tuffy became a second-round pick in the first NFL Draft in 1936. The selection was based on a tip from Tim Marra's son Wellington, who saw Tuffy play at GW while vacationing as a high schooler. Wellington would later reminisce, "If I'm remembered for nothing else, I'd like to be remembered for discovering Tuffy Leemans." This is a pretty humble statement from the guy still referenced in every official NFL football statement, "The Duke." Wellington took it a step further when, as many draftees from the first NFL selection process decided against playing in the still somewhat fledgling League for better pay in other career fields, Mara talked Leemans into playing for the Giants.
Chicago Trib writer Vincent X. Flaherty helped get Tuffy from GW into the Chicago All-Star game in 1936, with some help from the hundreds of votes for the player from the Windy City Fish Wrap readers. It was also a brilliant selection from John Q. Public, the collective name for the average American, as Leemans became the 1936 College All-Star MVP, a testament to his growing popularity and influence in the sport.
The "Duke football's" namesake's suggestion to his father and the rest of the Giants brass proved fruitful. Tuffy Leemans' eight-year career with the New York Giants (1936-1943) was masterclasses in versatility, earning him a well-deserved spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. A single position didn't define Leemans; he excelled as a running back, passer, receiver, and defender. This adaptability, coupled with his raw talent, made him a nightmare for opposing teams.
Leemans' impact was immediate. Drafted in the second round of the 1936 NFL Draft, he shattered rookie rushing records, leading the League with a staggering 830 yards. Not only was he the starting fullback as a rookie, but in the era of single-platoon football, he also patrolled the defensive backfield as a safety. He became a fixture on the All-Pro team, earning the distinction twice (1936 and 1939). A surprising passing prowess matched his ability to churn out yards on the ground. Leemans could dissect defenses with his arm, throwing for over 2,300 yards and 25 touchdowns throughout his career.
Leemans' impact on the New York Giants was profound. His two-way dominance, excelling on offense and defense, propelled the team to consistent championship contention. The fact that he was a fantastic defensive player was significant.
He was one of Head Coach Steve Owen's favorites and was a big part of why Owens was confident in implementing his two-platoon system—his A Team and B Team. The A team would play the first and third quarters, and the B team would play the second and fourth quarters. Leemans captained one team, while teammate Ward Cuff headed the alternate squad. What Owens trusted most about both players was their reliability in organizing the defenses properly.
The unselfish playing time may also indicate why Leemans only led the League in rushing his rookie season in 1936, as the talented back only played 30 minutes a game on this big substitution strategy. His stats would've been much higher had he played regularly.
Under his leadership, the Giants thrice reached the NFL title game, securing victory in 1938. His grit and determination were instrumental in these triumphs, making him a source of pride and inspiration for the team and its fans.
To further showcase his uncanny athleticism and versatility, the enterprising young man played professional basketball when, in the 1937 NFL off-season, he inked a contract with the Heurich Brewers of Washington, D.C.
Tuffy's versatility rose again when veteran Giants QB Ed Danowski retired and Leemans switched from RB to QB for his final two seasons. Tuffy wasn't a prolific passer by any means, but again, it was Owens's trust in Leemans to call the right plays and his leadership qualities. He was a player/coach in his final season in 1943 and a full-time assistant coach in 1944.
Leemans' career was tragically cut short by injuries. However, his impact transcended his playing days. He briefly coached for the Giants before returning to his alma mater, George Washington University, to coach high school football. His story with the Giants wasn't over, though, and came up again on one of the most infamous days in U.S. history. On December 7, 1941, the Giants celebrated "Tuffy Leemans Day." The franchise was all set to thank their former star with a gift of a silver tray and $1,500 in defense bonds. The War Bonds were quite a segue and a precognitive gift for what occurred during the ceremony. The game's radio broadcast was interrupted by an announcement of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, and the in-stadium announcer was persuaded to call out on the Public Address system at the polo grounds, requesting military personnel to report to their Commanding Officers immediately.
Tuffy Leemans' legacy extends far beyond statistics. He was a true pioneer, demonstrating that a player's value wasn't confined to a single position. His enshrinement in the Hall of Fame in 1978 is a permanent reminder of his all-around brilliance and the indelible mark he left on the game. His pioneering spirit continues to inspire players and fans alike, showing that versatility and adaptability are crucial to success in football.
Tuffy Leemans was a standout player in the early days of the National Football League (NFL). Here's a summary of his career:
-College and Early Career: Leemans played college football for both Oregon and George Washington University. Drafted by the New York Giants in the second round of the 1936 NFL Draft, he quickly established himself as a force on the field.
-Dominant All-Around Player: Leemans excelled on both offense and defense. He was a skilled runner, receiver, and passer, while also being a strong defensive player. This versatility made him a valuable asset to the Giants.
-League Leader and Champion: Leemans led the NFL in rushing yards (830) as a rookie, a remarkable feat, and was named a First-Team All-Pro in 1936 and 1939. He helped the Giants win the 1938 NFL Championship and played in the championship games of 1939 and 1941.
-Durability and Accolades: Leemans played eight seasons for the Giants, appearing in 80 games. He finished his career with over 3,100 rushing yards, 2,300 passing yards, and 33 total touchdowns. He was selected to the Pro Bowl twice in his career (1938, 1941) and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1978.
-Legacy: Leemans' career embodied the early days of the NFL, where players were often expected to excel on both sides of the ball. His well-rounded skill set and leadership made him a key contributor to the Giants' success in the late 1930s and early 1940s.
Leemans worked briefly as a backfield coach for the Giants and at his alma mater George Washington after his playing days were over.
