Football History

Born May 15, 1969, in Pensacola, Florida, was Emmitt Smith the legendary University of Florida running back of 1987 to 1989 was born. Emmitt joined the college ranks with a bang as he arrived at University of Florida as the national player of the year, scoring 109 touchdowns at his Pensacola, Florida high school.  

The NFF says that in just his first game he broke the school single-game rushing mark in an upset of Alabama. He gained 1,341 yards as a freshman, and finished ninth in the Heisman voting. His top-ten finish was only the second time a freshman had broken into the top ten. He also earned national freshman of the year honors that initial season.  Smith was gifted with exceptional balance and great vision which allowed him to seemingly do the impossible. In his junior season he finished third in the nation in rushing, was a near-unanimous All-America selection and placed seventh in the Heisman vote. In three years he set 58 school records rushing for 3,928 yards, scoring 36 touchdowns and earning SEC Player of the Year honors. The College Football Hall of Fame proudly placed a display in honor of Emmitt Smith into their legendary museum in 2006. Emmitt was the first round pick of the Dallas Cowboys in the 1990 NFL Draft as the 17th overall selection. He played 15 seasons as a back in the League and came out of it as the All-Time Rushing Champion with 18,355 yards with 11 straight 1000 yard seasons and 3 Super Bowl Titles.

In 1993, Smith was names as the NFL’S MVP as well as the Most Valuable Player in Super Bowl XXVIII.  Emmitt Smith was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010.

Born April 24, 1903, in Cleveland, Ohio, was Mike Michalske, the Penn State All-American guard. Mike signed on in the pros with the original American Football League’s New York Yankees in 1927.

He played there for two seasons until the League disbanded, and then he joined the Green Bay Packers of the NFL in 1929, then anchored their lines all the way until 1937. Mike’s bio on the Pro Football Hall of Fame says that Michalske was particularly adept at going after the passer.

Michalske also championed the idea of using former fullbacks at guard because they were fast and explosive. He sold the idea to Green Bay Packers coach Curly Lambea,u and thu,s it was no accident that many fine Green Bay guards had cut their football teeth as fullbacks. Michalske  was a great two-way player as the guy played 60 minutes of darn near every game he played in earning him the name of “Iron Mike.” The Packers won NFL titles in 1929, 1930, and 1931, and Michalske was named All-NFL in 1929, 1930, 1931, 1934, and 1935. In 1964, the Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined Mike Michalske into their Canton, Ohio, museum of Legends. NFL Jersey Number 36

The Indianapolis Colts, a franchise with a rich history dating back to the 1950s, boasts a select group of retired jersey numbers. These numbers represent the pinnacle of achievement for players who have made extraordinary contributions to the team and the sport of football.

Among the most prominent retired jerseys is number 8, worn by the legendary quarterback Johnny Unitas. Unitas, a pioneer of the modern passing game, led the Colts to multiple NFL championships and is considered one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. His impact on the Colts' organization and the game itself is undeniable.

Another stellar Colts signal caller Peyton Manning also had his number 18 retired by the franchise.

Another iconic number retired by the Colts is number 70, donned by the late great offensive lineman, Art Donovan. Art, a fierce competitor and a pillar of the Colts' defense for over a decade, earned numerous accolades. His relentless pursuit of excellence and leadership on the field cemented his place in Colts history.

These retired jerseys serve as a constant reminder of the extraordinary individuals who have shaped the Indianapolis Colts' identity. They inspire current and future generations of players and fans alike, reminding them of the dedication, talent, and leadership required to achieve greatness.

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

-Jersey Number 18
Peyton Manning 1998–2011 Colts

-Jersey Number 19
Johnny Unitas 1956–1972

-Jersey Number 22
Buddy Young 1953–1955

-Jersey Number 24
Lenny Moore 1956–1967

-Jersey Number 70
Art Donovan 1953–1961

-Jersey Number 77
Jim Parker 1957–1967

-Jersey Number 82
Raymond Berry 1955–1967

-Jersey Number 89
Gino Marchetti 1953–1966

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.

-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 Detroit Lions, a storied franchise with a rich history, have a relatively small but distinguished list of retired jersey numbers. These numbers represent the pinnacle of achievement for players who have made indelible marks on the team.

Among the most iconic is the number 20, a unique distinction in NFL history, as it was retired to honor three legendary players: Lem Barney, Billy Sims, and Barry Sanders.

Each of these running backs epitomized excellence and redefined the position during their respective eras.  

Other retired numbers include 7 for Dutch Clark, a pioneering figure in the early days of the Lions, and 56 for Joe Schmidt, a Hall of Fame linebacker known for his fierce competitiveness. These numbers serve as a permanent tribute to these football greats, inspiring future generations of Lions players and fans alike. While the list of retired jerseys may be shorter compared to some other franchises, the significance of each number is undeniable.
 

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

-Jersey Number 7
Dutch Clark

-Jersey Number 20
Lem Barney
Barry Sanders
Billy Simms

-Jersey Number 22
Bobby Layne

-Jersey Number 37
Doak Walker

-Jersey Number 56
Joe Schmidt

-Jersey Number 85
Chris Hughes

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.

-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.

Lydell Mitchell wasn't your average running back. He carved his name in football history not just with his punishing runs, but with his surprising agility and knack for catching passes. This essay explores the remarkable career of Mitchell, a college standout who became a versatile weapon in the NFL.

Mitchell's journey began at Penn State University. There, he established himself as a dominant force. He shattered school rushing records, amassing nearly 3,000 yards and a staggering 38 touchdowns. His explosiveness on the field earned him All-American honors and a coveted fifth-place finish in the 1971 Heisman Trophy race.

Drafted by the Baltimore Colts in 1972, Mitchell's professional career spanned nine seasons. He donned the jerseys of the Colts, San Diego Chargers, and Los Angeles Rams, proving his adaptability across different systems. While his rushing prowess remained undeniable, Mitchell surprised many with his receiving skills. Twice, he led the entire NFL in receptions, a feat unheard of for a running back at the time. This versatility made him a nightmare for defenses, unsure whether to brace for a run or a pass.

Mitchell's impact went beyond raw statistics. He earned three Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro nods, a testament to his consistent excellence. He finished his career with over 6,500 rushing yards and 30 rushing touchdowns, solidifying his place as a ground-and-pound threat. But his 376 receptions for over 3,200 yards showcased his ability to be a receiving weapon as well.

Lydell Mitchell's legacy extends beyond the stat sheet. He helped redefine the role of the running back in the NFL. No longer were they just one-dimensional rushers. Mitchell proved that backs could be threats in the passing game, adding a new layer of complexity to offensive schemes. His success paved the way for future dual-threat running backs like Marshall Faulk and Christian McCaffrey.

Today, Lydell Mitchell stands enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame. His impact on the game continues to resonate, a testament to a career that blended power with finesse, forever etching his name among the NFL's greatest running backs.

James Lofton's career was a masterclass in longevity and excellence. Born July 5, 1956 James is a towering figure both literally and figuratively, Lofton carved his name into the annals of NFL history as one of the most prolific wide receivers of his era. His journey, spanning 16 seasons and five different teams, is a testament to his unwavering dedication and remarkable athletic ability.

Lofton's brilliance started at Stanford University, where he not only excelled on the gridiron but also captured the NCAA long jump title in 1978. His athleticism caught the eye of the Green Bay Packers, who drafted him sixth overall that same year.

Lofton's impact on the Packers was immediate. He formed a potent receiving duo with Don Hutson, stretching defenses with his impressive size (6'4") and blazing speed. He quickly earned the nickname "The Gentle Giant" for his quiet demeanor off the field, contrasting with his dominance on it. Lofton racked up Pro Bowl appearances and All-Pro selections, becoming a reliable target for quarterbacks like Lynn Dickey and Bart Starr.

In 1983, Lofton achieved a remarkable feat, leading the league in receiving yards with a staggering 1,749. This record-breaking season cemented his status as an elite wide receiver. Despite his individual success, the Packers struggled to find consistent postseason success during Lofton's tenure.

In 1987, after a well-publicized off-field incident, Lofton was traded to the Los Angeles Raiders. While his time with the Raiders and subsequent stops with the Buffalo Bills, Los Angeles Rams, and Philadelphia Eagles wasn't as statistically dominant, he continued to be a valuable contributor. He defied age expectations, becoming the oldest player in NFL history to record a 1,000-yard receiving season in 1991 at the age of 35.

Lofton retired in 1993, holding the NFL record for career receiving yards (14,004) at the time. His 764 career receptions placed him third all-time. More importantly, he left a legacy of a player who could dominate games with his size, speed, and precise route running.

Lofton's impact transcended statistics. He was a pioneer for tall wide receivers, demonstrating the potential for players with his build to excel at the position. His quiet leadership and dedication to the game earned him respect throughout the league. In 2003, his enduring legacy was recognized with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

James Lofton's career wasn't defined by flashy headlines or a Super Bowl ring. It was a story of steady excellence, defying expectations, and leaving a lasting mark on the game of football. He exemplified the phrase "gentle giant," showcasing a lethal combination of size, athleticism, and dedication that continues to inspire wide receivers to this day.

Claude Henry K. "Buddy" Young wasn't just a football player; he was a living, breathing, touchdown-scoring metaphor for defying expectations. Standing at just 5'4" and 163 pounds, he was the NFL's shortest running back ever, an underdog who rewrote the rulebook with every electrifying run.

Born in Chicago in 1926, Young was a natural athlete, excelling in both baseball and track. His size, however, made football seem like a distant dream. But that dream shimmered closer when Young's speed on the track, where he even tied the world record for the 60-yard dash, caught the eye of the University of Illinois.

In Champaign, Young transformed from track star to gridiron marvel. Nicknamed the "Bronze Bullet" for his explosive bursts of speed, he averaged nearly 9 yards per carry as a freshman, a record that stood for decades. He led the Illini to a Big Ten championship and a Rose Bowl victory in 1946, proving that size didn't define greatness.

After a stint in the Navy, Young embarked on a professional career that defied all odds. Despite being drafted in the Special Draft to avoid competition with taller players, he carved out a nine-year NFL career with the New York Yankees, Dallas Texans, and Baltimore Colts.

Young wasn't just a novelty; he was a weapon. He averaged over 4.5 yards per carry, rushed for over 40 touchdowns, and even returned a kickoff for 104 yards, an NFL record at the time. He could dance through tackles, leave defenders grasping at air, and disappear into the end zone in a blink.

Beyond his on-field exploits, Young was a trailblazer. He was the first African-American athlete on the Baltimore Colts roster, paving the way for future generations of players. His talent and grace challenged stereotypes and shattered prejudices, proving that greatness comes in all packages.

After his playing days ended, Young continued to serve the NFL as a player relations executive, sharing his wisdom and experience with a new generation of athletes. He passed away tragically in a car accident in 1983, leaving behind a legacy of courage, determination, and an undying love for the game.