Retired Jersey Numbers of the Seattle Seahawks
The Seattle Seahawks boast a rich history filled with legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the franchise. As a testament to their greatness, the team has retired certain jersey numbers, a symbolic gesture honoring their contributions. In this post, we’ll delve into the Seahawks' retired numbers, exploring the careers of these iconic players and how the team continues to celebrate their legacies. Get ready to relive some of the most memorable moments in Seahawks history!
Here are the Jersey Numbers the team has taken out of circulation to honor their legends:
-Jersey Number 45
Kenny Easley 1981–1987
-Jersey Number 71
Walter Jones 1997–2009
-Jersey Number 80
Steve Largent 1976–1989
-Jersey Number 96
Cortez Kennedy 1990–2000
-Jersey Number 12
FAN (12s) The fans or 12th man of the Seahawks
Here are the Jersey Numbers the team has taken out of circulation to honor their legends:
-Jersey Number 45
Kenny Easley 1981–1987
-Jersey Number 71
Walter Jones 1997–2009
-Jersey Number 80
Steve Largent 1976–1989
-Jersey Number 96
Cortez Kennedy 1990–2000
-Jersey Number 12
FAN (12s) The fans or 12th man of the Seahawks
Clarke Hinkle Packers HOF Player
From Packers.com, the official website of the Green Bay Packers the life bio of Clarke Hinkle.
Born April 10, 1909, in Toronto, Ohio, was the stud fullback of 1929 to 1931 from Bucknell University, Clarke Hinkle arrived into this life. The FootballFoundation.org bio on Clarke states that he might just be the best player to ever suit up for Bucknell. Hinkle was blessed with great foot speed and mobility which gave him excellent range, both on offense and the defensive side of the ball. He was nicknamed the "Lackawanna Express," as he first achieved fame and notoriety in 1929, his sophomore season, when he led the East in scoring with 128 points.
He got better the more he played too as Clarke led Bucknell to an undefeated season in 1931. Clarke Hinkle’s collegiate football records are celebrated in the College Football Hall of Fame after his induction in 1971. Hinkle joined the Green Bay Packers in 1932 and he was the answer to counter the Bears Bronko Nagurski, as the two battled head to head on many occasions. Bronko was the big powerful runner of the era but the stout Hinkle, who was 30 pounds lighter, was determined to hold his own with anyone on an NFL gridiron. Clark's moto was "get to the Bronk before he gets to me," a tactic he used to perfection one day in 1934. Trapped on the sidelines by Nagurski, Clarke escaped his tackle by driving directly into and over him. The Bears' superstar was helped from the field with a broken nose and a fractured rib.
The Pro Football Hall of Fame says that during his 10 years with the Green Bay Packers, Hinkle was named first- or second-team all-league each year! In 1964 Clarke Hinkle was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Born April 10, 1909, in Toronto, Ohio, was the stud fullback of 1929 to 1931 from Bucknell University, Clarke Hinkle arrived into this life. The FootballFoundation.org bio on Clarke states that he might just be the best player to ever suit up for Bucknell. Hinkle was blessed with great foot speed and mobility which gave him excellent range, both on offense and the defensive side of the ball. He was nicknamed the "Lackawanna Express," as he first achieved fame and notoriety in 1929, his sophomore season, when he led the East in scoring with 128 points.
He got better the more he played too as Clarke led Bucknell to an undefeated season in 1931. Clarke Hinkle’s collegiate football records are celebrated in the College Football Hall of Fame after his induction in 1971. Hinkle joined the Green Bay Packers in 1932 and he was the answer to counter the Bears Bronko Nagurski, as the two battled head to head on many occasions. Bronko was the big powerful runner of the era but the stout Hinkle, who was 30 pounds lighter, was determined to hold his own with anyone on an NFL gridiron. Clark's moto was "get to the Bronk before he gets to me," a tactic he used to perfection one day in 1934. Trapped on the sidelines by Nagurski, Clarke escaped his tackle by driving directly into and over him. The Bears' superstar was helped from the field with a broken nose and a fractured rib.
The Pro Football Hall of Fame says that during his 10 years with the Green Bay Packers, Hinkle was named first- or second-team all-league each year! In 1964 Clarke Hinkle was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Emlen Tunnell and His Football Legacy
Emlen Tunnell left his mark on the sport of football. As one of the first African-American players to break the color barrier in the National Football League, Tunnell excelled on the field and paved the way for countless Black athletes to follow in his footsteps.
Born just West of Philadelphia in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, in 1926, Tunnell's athletic prowess was evident from a young age. He was a great athlete as a youth and star of the Radnor High School eleven, where he played halfback in 1940 and 1941. Em went on to play college football for the Toledo Rockets in 1942, but WWII interrupted his playing career briefly as he honed his skills with the San Francisco Coast Guard Pilots in 1944.
Tunnell was a dedicated Coast Guard member and a hero. The youngster was decorated for bravery and camaraderie when he received the Silver Lifesaving Medal for rescuing a shipmate from a fire during an enemy torpedo attack in 1944 and rescuing another fellow crewman who fell into the ocean in 1946.
When his service to the country ended after the war, Tunnell resumed his studies and collegiate gridiron career with the Iowa Hawkeyes in 1946 and 1947. In '46, Emlen led the team in total offense and was second in rushing yards. The following season, he trumped that with a fantastic game in which the speedster registered an Iowa single-game record with 155 receiving yards and three touchdowns on six receptions.
Returning to the Garrett Hill neighborhood where his family lived after leaving school to earn money, Tunnell hitched a ride on a banana truck from his PA home to the Polo Grounds to try out for Jack Mara of the New York Football Giants.
On July 24, 1948, Emlen was signed by the New York Giants, becoming the first African-American to be on the franchise's roster.
Tunnell's rookie season with the Giants was a resounding success. In just three starts and ten appearances, he intercepted seven passes and returned one for a touchdown in ten games.
Throughout his career, Tunnell excelled on the field. He was a nine-time Pro Bowl selection, named to the NFL's 50th Anniversary All-Time Team, and ranked 79th on the NFL's top 100 players in 2010. In addition to his defensive prowess, Tunnell made significant contributions as a punt and kickoff returner.
Tunnell's exceptional performance in 1951 earned him recognition as a first-team All-Pro by the Associated Press (AP) and United Press (UP). His remarkable achievements that year included leading the NFL with a career-high 489 punt return yards and scoring four non-offensive touchdowns. One of those touchdowns came on a 100-yard kickoff return, showcasing his speed and agility.
Tunnell's total 716 kick and punt return yards ranked second-best in the NFL in 1951. His impressive average of 37.8 yards per kick return and three punt returns for touchdowns remain Giants franchise records. Additionally, his nine interceptions and an average of 14.4 yards per punt return ranked third in the NFL that season, further highlighting his defensive prowess.
In 1952, Number 45's exceptional performance earned him further recognition. He was again selected as a first-team All-Pro by the Associated Press (AP) and United Press (UP). His defensive prowess was displayed as he led the NFL with six fumble recoveries. Additionally, Tunnell showcased his versatility by leading the league in punt return yards with 411, averaging an impressive 13.7 yards per return. It was remarkable that he gained more yardage in his kick and interception returns than any Giants runningback rushing.
He played on the G-Men until 1958, when his defensive Coordinator, Vince Lombardi, left his position with the Giants to become the head coach of the Green Bay Packers. Tunnell went with him to Green Bay. After retiring from playing, Tunnell would become one of the first black men to be a full-time NFL assistant coach.
His accomplishments and accolades testify to his uncanny ability to excel on the field.
-His 79 career interceptions were an NFL record and remain the second most in NFL history, having been surpassed in 1979 by fellow Iowa Hawkeye Paul Krause.
-His 1,282 interception return yards were an NFL record for four decades and ranked fifth in NFL history as of 2017.
-His 258 punt returns were an NFL record but rank 19th in league history as of 2017.
-His 2,209 punt return yards were an NFL record but ranked 30th as of 2017.
-He played in 158 consecutive games, which was also an NFL record when he retired.
-During his 14-year NFL career, Tunnell also totaled 16 fumble recoveries, 8.6 yards per punt return, and 1,215 yards on 46 kickoff returns (26.4 yards per return).
Tunnell's achievements were honored on numerous occasions:
-1st African American inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the first strictly defensive player to be inducted.
-All-Decade Team: In 1969, he was selected as a safety to the NFL's 1950s All-Decade Team, solidifying his status as one of the best players of that era.
-All-Pro Team: The same year, the Pro Football Hall of Fame named him to the all-time All-Pro team, further cementing his legendary status.
-Iowa Sports Hall of Fame: In 1975, Tunnell was inducted into the Iowa Sports Hall of Fame, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the sport at the University of Iowa.
-The Sporting News: In 1999, he was ranked number 70 on The Sporting News' list of the 100 Greatest Football Players, showcasing his enduring impact on the game.
-New York Giants Ring of Honor: In 2010, Tunnell was honored by the New York Giants by being included in the team's Ring of Honor at MetLife Stadium, a testament to his significant contributions to the franchise.
-NFL Network: That same year, the NFL Network ranked Tunnell 79th on its list of the 100 greatest players of all time, further highlighting his legacy.
-The 50 Greatest Players in New York Giants Football History: In 2014, he was ranked as the second most outstanding player in New York Giants history, a testament to his exceptional impact on the team.
-Statue: In 2018, a statue was erected in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, honoring Tunnell's legacy and commemorating his significant contributions to the sport.
One of the highest honors to his legacy occurred on October 15, 2021, when the US Coast Guard commissioned the USCGC Emlen Tunnell (WPC 1145), Patrol Forces Southwest Asia's fourth 154-foot Sentinel-class cutter, into service at Penn's Landing in Philadelphia.
Special thanks to NFL Films in their The Top 100: NFL's Greatest Players (2010), Wikipedia, and Pro-Football-Reference.com.
Born just West of Philadelphia in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, in 1926, Tunnell's athletic prowess was evident from a young age. He was a great athlete as a youth and star of the Radnor High School eleven, where he played halfback in 1940 and 1941. Em went on to play college football for the Toledo Rockets in 1942, but WWII interrupted his playing career briefly as he honed his skills with the San Francisco Coast Guard Pilots in 1944.
Tunnell was a dedicated Coast Guard member and a hero. The youngster was decorated for bravery and camaraderie when he received the Silver Lifesaving Medal for rescuing a shipmate from a fire during an enemy torpedo attack in 1944 and rescuing another fellow crewman who fell into the ocean in 1946.
When his service to the country ended after the war, Tunnell resumed his studies and collegiate gridiron career with the Iowa Hawkeyes in 1946 and 1947. In '46, Emlen led the team in total offense and was second in rushing yards. The following season, he trumped that with a fantastic game in which the speedster registered an Iowa single-game record with 155 receiving yards and three touchdowns on six receptions.
Returning to the Garrett Hill neighborhood where his family lived after leaving school to earn money, Tunnell hitched a ride on a banana truck from his PA home to the Polo Grounds to try out for Jack Mara of the New York Football Giants.
On July 24, 1948, Emlen was signed by the New York Giants, becoming the first African-American to be on the franchise's roster.
Tunnell's rookie season with the Giants was a resounding success. In just three starts and ten appearances, he intercepted seven passes and returned one for a touchdown in ten games.
Throughout his career, Tunnell excelled on the field. He was a nine-time Pro Bowl selection, named to the NFL's 50th Anniversary All-Time Team, and ranked 79th on the NFL's top 100 players in 2010. In addition to his defensive prowess, Tunnell made significant contributions as a punt and kickoff returner.
Tunnell's exceptional performance in 1951 earned him recognition as a first-team All-Pro by the Associated Press (AP) and United Press (UP). His remarkable achievements that year included leading the NFL with a career-high 489 punt return yards and scoring four non-offensive touchdowns. One of those touchdowns came on a 100-yard kickoff return, showcasing his speed and agility.
Tunnell's total 716 kick and punt return yards ranked second-best in the NFL in 1951. His impressive average of 37.8 yards per kick return and three punt returns for touchdowns remain Giants franchise records. Additionally, his nine interceptions and an average of 14.4 yards per punt return ranked third in the NFL that season, further highlighting his defensive prowess.
In 1952, Number 45's exceptional performance earned him further recognition. He was again selected as a first-team All-Pro by the Associated Press (AP) and United Press (UP). His defensive prowess was displayed as he led the NFL with six fumble recoveries. Additionally, Tunnell showcased his versatility by leading the league in punt return yards with 411, averaging an impressive 13.7 yards per return. It was remarkable that he gained more yardage in his kick and interception returns than any Giants runningback rushing.
He played on the G-Men until 1958, when his defensive Coordinator, Vince Lombardi, left his position with the Giants to become the head coach of the Green Bay Packers. Tunnell went with him to Green Bay. After retiring from playing, Tunnell would become one of the first black men to be a full-time NFL assistant coach.
His accomplishments and accolades testify to his uncanny ability to excel on the field.
-His 79 career interceptions were an NFL record and remain the second most in NFL history, having been surpassed in 1979 by fellow Iowa Hawkeye Paul Krause.
-His 1,282 interception return yards were an NFL record for four decades and ranked fifth in NFL history as of 2017.
-His 258 punt returns were an NFL record but rank 19th in league history as of 2017.
-His 2,209 punt return yards were an NFL record but ranked 30th as of 2017.
-He played in 158 consecutive games, which was also an NFL record when he retired.
-During his 14-year NFL career, Tunnell also totaled 16 fumble recoveries, 8.6 yards per punt return, and 1,215 yards on 46 kickoff returns (26.4 yards per return).
Tunnell's achievements were honored on numerous occasions:
-1st African American inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the first strictly defensive player to be inducted.
-All-Decade Team: In 1969, he was selected as a safety to the NFL's 1950s All-Decade Team, solidifying his status as one of the best players of that era.
-All-Pro Team: The same year, the Pro Football Hall of Fame named him to the all-time All-Pro team, further cementing his legendary status.
-Iowa Sports Hall of Fame: In 1975, Tunnell was inducted into the Iowa Sports Hall of Fame, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the sport at the University of Iowa.
-The Sporting News: In 1999, he was ranked number 70 on The Sporting News' list of the 100 Greatest Football Players, showcasing his enduring impact on the game.
-New York Giants Ring of Honor: In 2010, Tunnell was honored by the New York Giants by being included in the team's Ring of Honor at MetLife Stadium, a testament to his significant contributions to the franchise.
-NFL Network: That same year, the NFL Network ranked Tunnell 79th on its list of the 100 greatest players of all time, further highlighting his legacy.
-The 50 Greatest Players in New York Giants Football History: In 2014, he was ranked as the second most outstanding player in New York Giants history, a testament to his exceptional impact on the team.
-Statue: In 2018, a statue was erected in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, honoring Tunnell's legacy and commemorating his significant contributions to the sport.
One of the highest honors to his legacy occurred on October 15, 2021, when the US Coast Guard commissioned the USCGC Emlen Tunnell (WPC 1145), Patrol Forces Southwest Asia's fourth 154-foot Sentinel-class cutter, into service at Penn's Landing in Philadelphia.
Special thanks to NFL Films in their The Top 100: NFL's Greatest Players (2010), Wikipedia, and Pro-Football-Reference.com.
Retired Jersey Numbers of the Cleveland Browns
The Cleveland Browns boast a rich history filled with legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the franchise. As a testament to their extraordinary contributions, a select few have earned the ultimate honor of having their jersey numbers retired. These numbers, once worn by gridiron greats, are now permanently enshrined in the annals of Browns history.
From the glory days of the Cleveland Browns to the franchise's resurgence, these retired jerseys represent the pinnacle of achievement. Each number tells a unique story of talent, dedication, and perseverance. As we explore the Browns' retired jerseys, we'll delve into the lives and careers of these iconic players, paying homage to their impact on the team and the game of football.
Here are the retired Browns jersey numbers:
-Jersey Number 14
Otto Graham
-Jersey Number 32
Jim Brown
-Jersey Number 45
Ernie Davis
-JerseybNumber 46
Don Fleming
-Jersey Number 76
Lou Groza
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.
-What are some of the most unique football jerseys in history? Gridiron jerseys with logos on the front were once a fad. Check out this story titled Football Jerseys with Emblems.
-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.
From the glory days of the Cleveland Browns to the franchise's resurgence, these retired jerseys represent the pinnacle of achievement. Each number tells a unique story of talent, dedication, and perseverance. As we explore the Browns' retired jerseys, we'll delve into the lives and careers of these iconic players, paying homage to their impact on the team and the game of football.
Here are the retired Browns jersey numbers:
-Jersey Number 14
Otto Graham
-Jersey Number 32
Jim Brown
-Jersey Number 45
Ernie Davis
-JerseybNumber 46
Don Fleming
-Jersey Number 76
Lou Groza
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.
-What are some of the most unique football jerseys in history? Gridiron jerseys with logos on the front were once a fad. Check out this story titled Football Jerseys with Emblems.
-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.
Emlen Tunnell A Gridiron Giant Forged in College and the Pros
Emlen Tunnell's legacy in football transcends his impressive statistics. He was a pioneer, a force on the field, and a symbol of perseverance. This essay explores Tunnell's journey, from his unconventional college career to his dominance in the professional ranks, highlighting the impact he left on the game.
-College Career
Tunnell's path to gridiron glory wasn't a traditional one. He began at the University of Toledo in 1942, but his education was interrupted by World War II. Serving in the Coast Guard, Tunnell displayed his bravery by jumping into frigid waters to save a fellow sailor, a testament to his character and selflessness. Upon returning to his studies, he transferred to Iowa, showcasing his athletic prowess in both football and basketball.
-Road to the Pro Game
Despite his talent, Tunnell went undrafted in 1948, a common occurrence for African American players at the time. However, a chance encounter with a friendly truck driver led him to a tryout with the New York Giants. He impressed the coaches with his raw talent and determination, becoming the first African American player for the franchise.
Tunnell's impact on the Giants was immediate. He played defensive back and safety, a position he redefined with his aggressive style. Nicknamed "The Gremlin" for his ability to snatch interceptions, he led the NFL in interceptions twice during his career. His defensive prowess extended beyond takeaways. Tunnell was a punishing tackler and a shutdown corner, earning nine Pro Bowl selections and four invitations to the All-Pro team. He won an NFL Championship with the Giants in 1956.
Beyond his defensive dominance, Tunnell was a skilled return specialist. He led the league in punt return yards twice and holds the Giants' franchise record for career punt return touchdowns. His offensive contributions added another dimension to his skillset.
Soon after playing in the Greatest Game Ever Played," the 1958 NFL Championship against the Baltimore Colts, Tunnell left the NY Giants fold to play for the Green Bay Packers for three seasons under Vince Lombardi. He won a second NFL Title in 1961 as a Packer.
-Football Legacy
Tunnell's legacy extends beyond statistics. He was a trailblazer for African American players in the NFL. His success on the field paved the way for future generations and helped dismantle racial barriers in professional sports.
In 1959, after a stellar career with the Giants, Tunnell moved on to play two seasons with the Green Bay Packers. He retired in 1961, leaving behind a legacy of excellence. Tunnell's impact on the game was recognized in 1967 when he became the first African American player inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
-College Career
Tunnell's path to gridiron glory wasn't a traditional one. He began at the University of Toledo in 1942, but his education was interrupted by World War II. Serving in the Coast Guard, Tunnell displayed his bravery by jumping into frigid waters to save a fellow sailor, a testament to his character and selflessness. Upon returning to his studies, he transferred to Iowa, showcasing his athletic prowess in both football and basketball.
-Road to the Pro Game
Despite his talent, Tunnell went undrafted in 1948, a common occurrence for African American players at the time. However, a chance encounter with a friendly truck driver led him to a tryout with the New York Giants. He impressed the coaches with his raw talent and determination, becoming the first African American player for the franchise.
Tunnell's impact on the Giants was immediate. He played defensive back and safety, a position he redefined with his aggressive style. Nicknamed "The Gremlin" for his ability to snatch interceptions, he led the NFL in interceptions twice during his career. His defensive prowess extended beyond takeaways. Tunnell was a punishing tackler and a shutdown corner, earning nine Pro Bowl selections and four invitations to the All-Pro team. He won an NFL Championship with the Giants in 1956.
Beyond his defensive dominance, Tunnell was a skilled return specialist. He led the league in punt return yards twice and holds the Giants' franchise record for career punt return touchdowns. His offensive contributions added another dimension to his skillset.
Soon after playing in the Greatest Game Ever Played," the 1958 NFL Championship against the Baltimore Colts, Tunnell left the NY Giants fold to play for the Green Bay Packers for three seasons under Vince Lombardi. He won a second NFL Title in 1961 as a Packer.
-Football Legacy
Tunnell's legacy extends beyond statistics. He was a trailblazer for African American players in the NFL. His success on the field paved the way for future generations and helped dismantle racial barriers in professional sports.
In 1959, after a stellar career with the Giants, Tunnell moved on to play two seasons with the Green Bay Packers. He retired in 1961, leaving behind a legacy of excellence. Tunnell's impact on the game was recognized in 1967 when he became the first African American player inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
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