Johnny Blood McNally The Vagabond Halfback
John McNally Jr., better known by his colorful nickname "Johnny Blood," wasn't your typical Hall of Fame football player. He wasn't a bruising fullback or a record-breaking passer. Instead, McNally carved out a unique legacy as a versatile backfield threat, a journeyman with a knack for finding the end zone, and a personality as vibrant as his nickname.
Born in 1895, McNally's athletic journey began on the basketball court. Playing for Saint John's University in Minnesota, he earned a reputation for clutch plays, famously sinking a game-winning shot at the buzzer. However, football beckoned, and McNally's speed and elusive running style attracted the attention of teams in the fledgling NFL.
McNally's professional career was a whirlwind of movement. In his first four seasons, he played for four different teams: the Milwaukee Badgers (1925-26), Duluth Eskimos (1927), Pottsville Maroons (1928), Green Bay Packers (1929-33, 1935-36), and Pittsburgh Pirates (1934, 1937-38). Despite the constant change of scenery, McNally consistently impressed. He could run, throw, and catch exceptionally, becoming a fan favorite for his on-field theatrics and infectious personality.
-Championship Glory with the Green Bay Packers (1929-1933, 1935-1936)
McNally finally found stability in 1929 when he joined the Green Bay Packers. Here, his versatility perfectly fits Coach Curly Lambeau's innovative offense. McNally's contributions were crucial as the Packers captured three consecutive NFL championships from 1929 to 1931. He formed a formidable offense with Don Hutson, another future Hall of Famer.
-A Winding Road and a Coaching Stint (1937-1941)
McNally's later career saw him bounce between teams once again, playing for the Pittsburgh Pirates (later Steelers) and even returning briefly to the Buffalo Tigers in a minor league. He eventually retired as player-coach for the Kenosha Cardinals in a minor league. McNally's coaching stint was short-lived, but it cemented his dedication to the game.
-A Legacy of Versatility and Entertainment
Johnny Blood McNally's legacy goes beyond statistics. He was a true "iron man" of the early NFL, playing in an era before the luxuries of modern equipment and training methods. His versatility on the field and his larger-than-life personality made him a fan favorite and a key contributor to the rise of professional football's popularity in the early 20th century. While nomadic stints with various teams dotted his career, his impact on the game, particularly his role in the Green Bay Packers championship runs, is undeniable.
Born in 1895, McNally's athletic journey began on the basketball court. Playing for Saint John's University in Minnesota, he earned a reputation for clutch plays, famously sinking a game-winning shot at the buzzer. However, football beckoned, and McNally's speed and elusive running style attracted the attention of teams in the fledgling NFL.
McNally's professional career was a whirlwind of movement. In his first four seasons, he played for four different teams: the Milwaukee Badgers (1925-26), Duluth Eskimos (1927), Pottsville Maroons (1928), Green Bay Packers (1929-33, 1935-36), and Pittsburgh Pirates (1934, 1937-38). Despite the constant change of scenery, McNally consistently impressed. He could run, throw, and catch exceptionally, becoming a fan favorite for his on-field theatrics and infectious personality.
-Championship Glory with the Green Bay Packers (1929-1933, 1935-1936)
McNally finally found stability in 1929 when he joined the Green Bay Packers. Here, his versatility perfectly fits Coach Curly Lambeau's innovative offense. McNally's contributions were crucial as the Packers captured three consecutive NFL championships from 1929 to 1931. He formed a formidable offense with Don Hutson, another future Hall of Famer.
-A Winding Road and a Coaching Stint (1937-1941)
McNally's later career saw him bounce between teams once again, playing for the Pittsburgh Pirates (later Steelers) and even returning briefly to the Buffalo Tigers in a minor league. He eventually retired as player-coach for the Kenosha Cardinals in a minor league. McNally's coaching stint was short-lived, but it cemented his dedication to the game.
-A Legacy of Versatility and Entertainment
Johnny Blood McNally's legacy goes beyond statistics. He was a true "iron man" of the early NFL, playing in an era before the luxuries of modern equipment and training methods. His versatility on the field and his larger-than-life personality made him a fan favorite and a key contributor to the rise of professional football's popularity in the early 20th century. While nomadic stints with various teams dotted his career, his impact on the game, particularly his role in the Green Bay Packers championship runs, is undeniable.
Rickey Jackson the Legendary Versatile Linebacker
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.
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.
COLLEGE HOF | ‣
John Huard University of Maine Linebacker in College Football Hall of Fame Player
John Huard, born March 9, 1944, in Waterville, Maine, crafted a notable football career, marked by his tenacity and leadership.
Huard was a standout linebacker for the Black Bears of the University of Maine from 1964 to 1966. John made his fellow Maine citizens proud when he helped the Black Bears earn their first-ever trip to the postseason.
-College Career
Huard's collegiate football journey began at the University of Maine, where he became a standout linebacker. His aggressive style and exceptional tackling ability made him a dominant force on the Black Bears' defense. He earned recognition for his performance and became a key player in the team's success during his time there. He was known for his toughness and leadership on the field.
-Road to the Pro Game
Huard's impressive college performance garnered the attention of professional scouts. The Denver Broncos selected him in the fifth round of the 1967 NFL/AFL Draft. This marked the beginning of his professional career, during which he would demonstrate his skills at the highest level of the sport.
-Football Legacy
His hard-nosed approach to the game defines Huard's legacy. He was known as a very tough and dependable player. While not exceptionally long, his professional career contained a solid level of consistent play. His impact on the Denver Broncos' defense was noticeable. His place in the University of Maine football history and later in his professional career left marks of a very solid linebacker.
Huard won the prestigious acclaim of becoming the first member of Alfond Stadium’s Ring of Honor, and Sports Illustrated named him one of the top twenty athletes out of the State of Maine. John Huard was honored further for his brilliant career when he earned a place in the College Football Hall of Fame in 2014.
-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats
-Alfond Stadium’s Ring of Honor
-Selected by the Denver Broncos in the fifth round of the 1967 NFL/AFL Draft.
-Played for the Denver Broncos and the New Orleans Saints.
-He played 41 out of 42 games in the first 3 years of his NFL career while playing for the Denver Broncos.
-He has been inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.
Huard's career highlights his dedication and perseverance. His transition from a college standout to a professional player exemplifies his commitment to the sport. His contributions to the teams he played for are a testament to his talent and character.
Huard was a standout linebacker for the Black Bears of the University of Maine from 1964 to 1966. John made his fellow Maine citizens proud when he helped the Black Bears earn their first-ever trip to the postseason.
-College Career
Huard's collegiate football journey began at the University of Maine, where he became a standout linebacker. His aggressive style and exceptional tackling ability made him a dominant force on the Black Bears' defense. He earned recognition for his performance and became a key player in the team's success during his time there. He was known for his toughness and leadership on the field.
-Road to the Pro Game
Huard's impressive college performance garnered the attention of professional scouts. The Denver Broncos selected him in the fifth round of the 1967 NFL/AFL Draft. This marked the beginning of his professional career, during which he would demonstrate his skills at the highest level of the sport.
-Football Legacy
His hard-nosed approach to the game defines Huard's legacy. He was known as a very tough and dependable player. While not exceptionally long, his professional career contained a solid level of consistent play. His impact on the Denver Broncos' defense was noticeable. His place in the University of Maine football history and later in his professional career left marks of a very solid linebacker.
Huard won the prestigious acclaim of becoming the first member of Alfond Stadium’s Ring of Honor, and Sports Illustrated named him one of the top twenty athletes out of the State of Maine. John Huard was honored further for his brilliant career when he earned a place in the College Football Hall of Fame in 2014.
-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats
-Alfond Stadium’s Ring of Honor
-Selected by the Denver Broncos in the fifth round of the 1967 NFL/AFL Draft.
-Played for the Denver Broncos and the New Orleans Saints.
-He played 41 out of 42 games in the first 3 years of his NFL career while playing for the Denver Broncos.
-He has been inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.
Huard's career highlights his dedication and perseverance. His transition from a college standout to a professional player exemplifies his commitment to the sport. His contributions to the teams he played for are a testament to his talent and character.
Retired Jersey Numbers of the New England Patriots
The New England Patriots have a rich history filled with legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the franchise. As a testament to their greatness, the Patriots have retired certain jersey numbers, honoring those who have contributed significantly to the team's success. Let’s dive into the world of retired Patriots numbers and explore the traditions surrounding this esteemed recognition.
Here is a look at the jerseys that the franchise has taken out of circulation and the individuals honored:
-Jersey Number 12
Tom Brady 2000-2019
-Jersey Number 20
Gino Cappelletti 1960–1970
-Jersey Number 40
Mike Haynes 1976–1982
-Jersey Number 57
Steve Nelson 1974–1987
-Jersey Number 73
John Hannah 1973–1985
-Jersey Number 78
Bruce Armstrong 1987–2000
-Jersey Number 79
Jim Lee Hunt 1960–1970
-Jersey Number 89
Bob Dee 1960–1967
Here is a look at the jerseys that the franchise has taken out of circulation and the individuals honored:
-Jersey Number 12
Tom Brady 2000-2019
-Jersey Number 20
Gino Cappelletti 1960–1970
-Jersey Number 40
Mike Haynes 1976–1982
-Jersey Number 57
Steve Nelson 1974–1987
-Jersey Number 73
John Hannah 1973–1985
-Jersey Number 78
Bruce Armstrong 1987–2000
-Jersey Number 79
Jim Lee Hunt 1960–1970
-Jersey Number 89
Bob Dee 1960–1967
Related Searches
NFL Jersey:Number 15, NFL Jersey:Number 20, NFL Jersey:Number 24, NFL Jersey:Number 57, football position:linebacker, NCAAF jersey:Number 87, NCAAF Jersey:Number 32, NFL Jersey:Number 52, NFL Jersey:Number 12, NFL Jersey:Number 40, NFL Jersey:Number 73, NFL Jersey:Number 78, NFL Jersey:Number 79, NFL Jersey:Number 89
