Football History

Calling all football history buffs! Today, we embark on a thrilling journey to explore the elite athletes who donned the iconic jersey number 71 in the NFL. This prestigious number has graced the shoulders of some of the game's most dominant players, each leaving their mark on the gridiron in unforgettable ways.

From offensive line warriors who paved the way for rushing attacks to defensive titans who instilled fear in the hearts of quarterbacks, number 71 carries a legacy of power, precision, and pure footballing excellence. Over the next few posts, we'll be diving deep into the careers of these legendary figures. Get ready to relive their game-changing moments, analyze their impact on their respective teams, and understand how they cemented their place in NFL history. So, buckle up and prepare to be awestruck by the incredible athletes who wore number 71 with pride!

Tune in for the number 71s that made the jersey number famous!

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

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Tony Boselli helped the upstart Jacksonville Jaguars gain an instant identity as a hard-hitting, gritty football team. This legend was one of the top left tackles of his era and a cornerstone of the Jags success on offense.

Drafted second overall in 1995, the Modesto, California native quickly established himself as an elite protector, earning All-Pro honors three times and Pro Bowl selections five times in his seven-year career.

Boselli's impact was immediate. He anchored an offensive line that paved the way for Mark Brunell and helped the Jaguars reach the AFC Championship game in just their second season. His dominance earned him the nickname "The Blindside King," a testament to his ability to shut down even the most feared pass rushers.

Beyond accolades, Boselli embodied leadership and determination. He battled through injuries, including a torn rotator cuff, showcasing his unwavering commitment to the team. His dedication inspired teammates and ignited a passionate fanbase, earning him the moniker "Jacksonville's Dad."

However, tragedy struck in 2001 when a severe shoulder injury cut short his promising career. Despite attempts to return, the damage was too significant. While he signed with the Houston Texans in the expansion draft, he never stepped onto the field again.

Despite an abbreviated career, Boselli's legacy remains etched in Jaguars' history. He is considered one of the franchise's greatest players, inducted into both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the Jaguars' Hall of Fame in 2022.

Born July 15, 1935 was Alex Karras is enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame as a Defensive Tackle for the Detroit Lions.

-College Career:

Alex Karras' football journey began at the University of Iowa, where he quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. A two-time First-team All-American (1956, 1957), Karras dominated as a defensive tackle. His relentless aggression and exceptional technique earned him the respect of teammates and the fear of opposing offenses. In 1957, Karras' dominance reached new heights. He captured the prestigious Outland Trophy, awarded to the nation's best interior lineman, and finished as runner-up to Heisman Trophy winner John David Crow. This marked the highest finish for a tackle in Heisman voting history. Karras also proved his athletic versatility, winning the collegiate heavyweight wrestling championship. Leading the Hawkeyes to a Rose Bowl victory in 1956 cemented his status as an Iowa legend.

-Road to the Pro Game:

Following his decorated college career, Karras entered the 1958 NFL Draft as a highly coveted prospect. The Detroit Lions, yearning for defensive stability, snatched him up in the first round. This would mark the beginning of a long and fruitful partnership.

-Football Legacy:

Karras' 12-year career with the Detroit Lions solidified his place as one of the greatest defensive tackles of his era. His ferocious style of play earned him the nickname "The Spoiler." Despite his intimidating presence, Karras was surprisingly durable, missing just one game during his entire career and starting an astonishing 153 consecutive games.

Accolades followed Karras throughout his career. He earned nine Pro Bowl selections, a testament to his consistent excellence. Three First-team All-Pro selections and six Second-team recognitions further illustrate his dominance. Karras' impact extended beyond individual accolades. He was a cornerstone of the Lions' defense during a competitive era, helping the team reach several NFL Championship games in the 1960s, though they ultimately fell short of a Super Bowl appearance.

Karras' legacy transcends the traditional metrics of success. His influence extended beyond the field. He was known for his outspoken personality and confrontational style, clashing with officials and often drawing fines. This rebellious streak resonated with some fans, solidifying his image as a maverick within the sport.

Following his retirement in 1970, Karras embarked on a successful career as a sportscaster, injecting his signature wit and candor into the Monday Night Football booth. He later transitioned into acting, with a memorable role as Mongo in the classic comedy film "Blazing Saddles."

In 2020, Alex Karras was posthumously inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, a fitting tribute to his on-field dominance and enduring influence on the game. He left an indelible mark on the Detroit Lions franchise and the landscape of professional football, remembered as a fearless player, a captivating personality, and a true gridiron legend.

Unlike many NFL franchises, the Jacksonville Jaguars have yet to officially retire a large number of jersey numbers. They do have one digit put on mothballs though.

While this might seem unusual for a team with a history as rich as theirs, it's a decision that reflects the team's philosophy. Instead of formally retiring numbers, the Jaguars have opted to honor their legends in other ways, such as the Ring of Honor and various team awards. This approach allows for flexibility in player number assignments while still recognizing the contributions of franchise icons.

-Jersey Number 71
Tony Boselli

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.

-Who are some of the most famous NFL players at each jersey number? From Red Grange's jersey number 77 to Tom Brady's iconic number 12, several NFL players made their digits proud. Want to know more? You are in the right place, as we covered all 100 jersey numbers, and the best way to wear each is About Football By Numbers.