Football History

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The talented wide receiver of the Super Steelers, who along with Lynn Swann made amazing catches. He was Part of the success of the 1970s Pittsburgh Steelers.

John Stallworth wasn't just a wide receiver; he was a cornerstone, a champion, and a legend etched in Pittsburgh Steelers history. From his unassuming beginnings to his place in the Hall of Fame, his career shines as a testament to hard work, determination, and the magic of the "Steel Curtain" era.

Drafted in 1974, Stallworth wasn't an immediate star. Yet, alongside Terry Bradshaw and the formidable "Steel Curtain" defense, he steadily honed his skills, becoming a key weapon in their potent offensive arsenal. His exceptional speed, acrobatic catches, and uncanny ability to find the end zone made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

The accolades followed relentlessly. Four Super Bowl victories adorned his career, each one a testament to his clutch performances and unwavering team spirit. He racked up franchise records for receptions, yards, and touchdowns, his name forever echoing through the streets of Pittsburgh.

Football fans, have you ever wondered who wore number 82 best? Prepare to embark on a captivating journey through NFL history as we explore the legendary players who donned this iconic number!

Number 82 has adorned the backs of some of the league's most electrifying talents. From record-breaking wide receivers who stretched defenses to the limit, to tenacious tight ends who dominated the middle of the field, this number carries a legacy of offensive prowess and strategic versatility.

Over the next few posts, we'll be dissecting the careers of these gridiron greats. We'll delve into their signature plays, analyze their contributions to their respective teams, and understand how they etched their names into the fabric of NFL history. So, get ready to be inspired by the remarkable athletes who wore number 82 with distinction!

July 15, 1952 - John Stallworth is a Pro Football Hall of Fame Wide Receiver that played his entire NFL career for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The standout receiver played his college ball at Alabama A & M. Stallworth was a very productive play maker in the Steelers dynasty of the 1970's where they won four Super Bowls in a span of 6 seasons. He finished his career having been selected as a First Team All-Pro for the 1979 season and made the Pro Bowl in 3 different seasons.

His NFL career stats bio-line 537 receptions for 8,723 yards and 63 touchdowns. Stallworth's reception total was a franchise record until being surpassed by Hines Ward in 2005. Stallworth was the Steelers' two-time MVP and NFL Comeback Player of the Year in 1984. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2002.

Born August 7, 1945, in Canton, Ohio, was Alan Page was a defensive end from Notre Dame that was selected to enter the College Football Hall of Fame. He was a member of that famed 1966 Fighting Irish National Championship team.

Mr. Page went on to have a tremendous 15 year pro career as part of the famed Purple People Eaters of the Minnesota Vikings and later 3 seasons with the Chicago Bears. In 1967 he won the NFL Rookie of the Year honors.

As a Viking, Alan played in four Super Bowls (IV, VIII, IX, XI), but unfortunately never got a chance to hoist the Lombardi Trophy. Page was named to the 1970s NFL All-Decade Team, inducted into the Vikings Ring of Honor

The great defender also has his bronze bust placed in Canton in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Page was the first player on the defensive side of the ball to win the NFL MVP honors, and only Lawrence Taylor has done it since!

What does a super-intelligent football player do after a brilliant career? Well, according to Yahoo.com, Page attended the University of Minnesota Law School while still playing for the Vikings and earned his law degree in 1978. The man then served as a Minnesota Supreme Court Associate Justice from 1992-2015. Incredible!

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.

Raymond Berry, born February 28, 1933, carved a unique path in American football. While his professional playing career wasn't as decorated as some, he left a lasting impact through his contributions as a player, coach, and mentor. This essay explores his college career, professional pursuits, and enduring football legacy.

High School and College Career

Berry's journey began at Paris High School in Texas, where his talent wasn't initially recognized due to a leg length discrepancy. He eventually earned a starting position and honed his skills at Shreiner Junior College before transferring to Southern Methodist University (SMU). At SMU, Berry flourished, becoming team captain and earning All-Southwest Conference honors in 1954. His impressive college career caught the attention of NFL scouts.

Road to the Pro Game

Despite his college success, Berry was drafted in the 20th round by the Baltimore Colts in 1954. Playing under Coach Weeb Ewbank, Berry began as a third-string option. However, his dedication, work ethic, and precise route-running gradually earned him a starting spot. In 1958, Berry's career took a significant turn. The arrival of Johnny Unitas at quarterback fostered a partnership that would redefine the game. Berry's ability to exploit gaps in the defense, combined with Unitas's pinpoint passing, revolutionized the offensive scheme and earned the duo the nickname "The Baltimore Colts' Unitas-to-Berry Show."

From 1958 to 1967, the Unitas-Berry connection dominated the NFL. Berry became the league's leading receiver three times, played in six Pro Bowls, and was a crucial contributor to the Colts' victories in the 1958 and 1959 NFL championships. He retired in 1967 as the NFL's all-time leader in receptions (631) and receiving yards (9,275).

While Berry's playing career spanned only 13 seasons, his impact transcended the statistics. He became synonymous with precise route running, demonstrating the power of dedication and tireless practice. His success alongside Unitas redefined offensive strategies, showcasing the potential of the passing game and influencing generations of quarterbacks and receivers.

Football Legacy

Following his playing career, Berry embarked on a successful coaching journey. He served as an assistant coach for several teams before becoming head coach of the New England Patriots in 1984. Despite limited initial success, Berry's leadership and focus on creating a winning culture eventually paid off. He led the Patriots to their first Super Bowl appearance in 1986, laying the foundation for the team's future success.
Raymond Berry's legacy goes beyond statistics and championships. He embodies the spirit of perseverance, demonstrating that hard work and dedication can lead to success, even when faced with challenges. His contributions as a player, coach, and mentor continue to inspire current and future generations of football players and coaches. While Berry's playing career might not stand out as brightly as some, his impact on the game endures, firmly etching his name in the annals of football history.

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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

Ozzie Newsome, born March 16, 1956, in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, forged a legendary football career, transitioning from a standout wide receiver at the University of Alabama to a Hall of Fame tight end in the NFL.

Newsome's collegiate career at Alabama from 1974 to 1977 was nothing short of spectacular. As a four-year starter, he demonstrated exceptional talent and leadership. He served as the offensive captain and earned All-America honors in 1977. His impressive statistics—102 receptions for 2,070 yards, averaging 20.3 yards per catch—highlighted his playmaking ability. His senior year showcased his versatility, particularly in a game against Notre Dame where he caught seven passes, scored two touchdowns, and a two-point conversion, while also earning praise for his blocking. Perhaps his most significant accolade came from legendary coach Bear Bryant, who called Newsome "the greatest end in Alabama history," a testament to his all-around excellence. In 1994, Newsome's collegiate achievements were recognized with his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame.

The Cleveland Browns selected Newsome in the first round of the 1978 NFL Draft. He transitioned to tight end in the pros, where he continued to excel. Over 13 seasons with the Browns, he redefined the tight end position, becoming a premier pass-catching threat. He retired as the NFL's fourth-leading receiver and the leading tight end, with 662 receptions for 7,980 yards and 47 touchdowns. His best seasons came in 1983 and 1984, when he recorded 89 receptions in each year. Known as the "Wizard of Oz," Newsome was renowned for his reliable hands, precise route running, and exceptional athleticism.

Newsome's football legacy extends beyond his playing career. His transition to the front office, most notably as the general manager of the Baltimore Ravens, where he built two Super Bowl-winning teams, solidified his impact on the game. His ability to evaluate talent and build a championship-caliber roster cemented his status as one of the most respected figures in football.

Newsome's accolades include his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1994 and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1999. He was a four-time Pro Bowl selection and a three-time All-Pro selection. His college statistics include 102 receptions for 2,070 yards. His professional statistics include 662 receptions for 7,980 yards and 47 touchdowns. Ozzie Newsome's contributions as a player and executive have left an indelible mark on the sport.