Football History

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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Johnny Majors. The name evokes images of a powerful running style, a relentless work ethic, and a fiery leadership that left an indelible mark on the world of football. But Majors wasn't just a dominant player; he was a transformative coach who redefined programs and left a legacy that continues to inspire generations.

This post delves into the captivating career of Johnny Majors. We'll begin by exploring his electrifying college days at Tennessee, where he captivated fans with his Heisman Trophy-worthy performances. Witness his transition from gridiron star to coaching mastermind, leading programs like Pittsburgh and, most notably, his alma mater, the Tennessee Volunteers, to unparalleled heights.

Join us as we dissect Majors' coaching philosophy, a blend of tough love, strategic brilliance, and a deep understanding of the mental game. We'll revisit iconic victories, analyze his impact on the Southeastern Conference (SEC) landscape, and celebrate the players he molded into champions.

But Johnny Majors' story extends beyond wins and losses. We'll explore his dedication to academics and his unwavering belief in the power of football to shape young men into leaders on and off the field.

So, whether you're a die-hard Tennessee fan or simply appreciate a true football legend, this post offers a comprehensive look at Johnny Majors – the player, the coach, and the man who left an undeniable mark on the sport he loved. Get ready for a journey through gridiron history, one filled with power runs, coaching triumphs, and the enduring legacy of a true football giant.


-Basic Bio of Johnny Majors

Born May 21, 1935, in Lynchburg, Tennessee, was Johnny Majors the 1954 through 1956 season star halfback of the Tennessee Volunteers football program. The FootballFoundation.org starts off by telling what a versatile player Majors was, he did it all for the Vols—running, passing, kicking and playing defense with a capital D. Just for some examples of the all around great play, Majors returned 36 punts for a 12.2-yard average and one touchdown in his career along with 15 kickoff returns for a 22.9-yard average. Majors also intercepted two passes at Tennessee and punted 83 times for a 39.1-yard average.Johnny received the media accolades too as he was a unanimous All-American in 1956, he finished second in the Heisman Trophy balloting after leading the Vols to a 10-1 record, an appearance in the Sugar Bowl and a final national ranking of No. 2. He was also named United Press International's Back of the Year. The National Football Foundation selected Johnny Majors for entrance into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1987. After college, Majors played one season for the Montreal Alouettes in the CFL before embarking on a long coaching career. The Saturday-Down-South website fills us in that Majors began his coaching career as an assistant at Tennessee in 1957, and would work as an assistant at Mississippi State and Arkansas before accepting his first head coaching job at Iowa State in 1968. He returned to Knoxville in 1977 and led Tennessee to 12 winning seasons during his 16-season tenure as head coach. Majors won three SEC championships with the Volunteers in 1985, 1989 and 1990, and reached 11 bowl games as head coach at Tennessee, posting a 7-4 record in those games. Majors stepped away from his job at Tennessee late in the 1992 season with a bit of controversy. The Coach left Knoxville with a 116-62-8 record. His contributions of coaching up winning football was not over though as he returned to coach at the University of Pittsburgh in 1993, the same school Majors won a national title with in 1976.
A pretty cool video that recorded Johnny Majors telling of memories he had while at Tennessee as a player and a coach.

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Born August 21, 1954, in Columbus, Ohio, was the two time Heisman Trophy Winner from Ohio State University, Archie Griffin. Griffin is considered one of the greatest college football players of all time. Griffin won four Big Ten Conference titles with the Buckeyes and was the first player ever to start in four Rose Bowls. Selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the first round of the 1976 NFL Draft.

Archie played seven seasons in the NFL, rushing for over 4,100 yards and scoring 32 touchdowns. He also played professionally for the Jacksonville Bulls of the United States Football League (USFL).He is forever enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame since 2000.

Archie Griffin is synonymous with Ohio State football. A native of Columbus, he became a Buckeye legend during his collegiate career. Renowned for his exceptional running ability, durability, and leadership, Griffin was the heart and soul of the Ohio State offense.

His most remarkable feat is being the only player in history to win the Heisman Trophy twice, in 1974 and 1975. This achievement solidified his status as one of the greatest college football players of all time. Beyond the individual accolades, Griffin was a pivotal part of Ohio State's success, leading the Buckeyes to four Big Ten championships and four Rose Bowl appearances.

With a combination of power, speed, and elusiveness, Griffin was a nightmare for opposing defenses. His consistent performance and durability made him a cornerstone of the Ohio State program. His legacy extends far beyond his statistical accomplishments, as he embodies the spirit and tradition of Buckeye football

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Trevor Cobb is a former American football running back who played four seasons for the Rice Owls from 1989 to 1993. Cobb is regarded as one of the greatest running backs in Rice history. He holds numerous school records, including career rushing yards (4,948), career rushing touchdowns (38), and single-season rushing yards (1,692). Cobb was also a consensus All-American in 1991 when he won the Doak Walker Award as the nation's top running back.
Cobb was born and raised in Houston, Texas. He attended J—Frank Dobie High School, where he was a standout football and track athlete. Several significant colleges recruited Cobb, but he ultimately chose to stay close to home and attend Rice University.
Cobb made an immediate impact on the Rice football program. As a freshman in 1989, he ran for 1,087 yards and 12 touchdowns. Cobb's breakout season came in 1991 when he rushed for 1,692 yards and 14 touchdowns. He also led the nation in all-purpose yards with 2,249. Cobb's performance that season earned him the Doak Walker Award, given annually to the nation's top college running back.
An excellent video on former Rice football player Trevor Cobb.