Football History

---

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 on March 20, 1958, in Pahokee, Florida, Rickey Jackson's journey to football immortality began with a foundation built on raw talent and relentless drive.

Rickey was a brilliant linebacker of the University of Pittsburgh and with the NFL's Saints and 49ers.

College Career:

Jackson's collegiate career unfolded at the University of Pittsburgh, where he honed his skills as a dominant linebacker. He became a key defensive force for the Panthers, showcasing his exceptional athleticism and aggressive playing style. While his college statistics weren't as widely tracked as they are today, his impact on the team was undeniable. His performances at Pitt laid the groundwork for his future success in the NFL, demonstrating his ability to disrupt offenses and make game-changing plays.  

Road to the Pro Game:

Jackson's talent caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to his selection by the New Orleans Saints in the second round, 51st overall, of the 1981 NFL Draft. This pick proved to be a masterstroke for the Saints. In his rookie year, Jackson immediately made his presence felt, recording 8 sacks and leading the team in tackles—an impressive feat that foreshadowed his stellar career.  

Football Legacy:

Rickey Jackson's legacy is etched in the annals of NFL history as one of the most dominant linebackers of his era. He was a cornerstone of the Saints' defense for 13 seasons, transforming them from perennial underachievers to a formidable unit. His relentless pursuit of quarterbacks and his ability to make crucial tackles made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. He finished his career with two seasons playing defensive end for the San Francisco 49ers, adding to his impressive resume. Jackson's impact extended beyond his individual statistics; he was a leader on and off the field, inspiring his teammates with his work ethic and dedication. He was a key part of the "Dome Patrol," one of the most feared linebacker corps in NFL history.  

Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats:

-Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2010)

-4x First-team All-Pro selections

-6x Pro Bowl selections

-NFL 1980s All-Decade Team

Career Stats:

-128 sacks (official NFL stat, but he also had 8 in his rookie year before sacks were officially tracked)  

-8 interceptions

-1 safety

-Numerous tackles and forced fumbles, though official counts were not as consistent in his era.

Rickey Jackson in 2010 was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.