The Legacy of Eddie LeBaron
Eddie LeBaron wasn't built for the NFL. At 5'7" and 168 pounds, he was the shortest quarterback to ever start a Pro Bowl, an underdog in a world of giants. Yet, his football career transcended statistics and size, becoming a testament to grit, resilience, and an unwavering love for the game.
LeBaron's talent shone early. He led the College of the Pacific Tigers under Coach Amos Alonzo Stagg to victories and dazzled with his elusive agility and pinpoint throws. The NFL beckoned, but initial struggles against towering defenders threatened to dim his star. Eddie was selected by the Washington Redskins in the 10th round of the 1950 NFL Draft, but, after playing one season, was Drafted to serve the United States in the Korean War. He returned to D.C. after serving and filled future Hall of Fame QB Sammy Baugh, receiving All-Rookie honors by season's end. A knee injury a year later derailed his Redskins and possibly his NFL career.
His time in Canada with the CFL's Calgary Stampeders in 1954 proved an unexpected crucible, honing his skills and his resolve.
In 1960, fate presented an opportunity he wouldn't squander. As the newly-minted Dallas Cowboys, fresh off years of losing, took their first steps onto the NFL stage, they chose LeBaron as their leader. He wasn't just a quarterback; he was the franchise's face, its spark plug, its defiant howl against established giants.
The Cowboys stumbled initially, but LeBaron's spirit was infectious. He battled for every first down, his scrambles a blur of determination, his throws laser-like beams finding open receivers. Under his leadership, the Cowboys rose from doormats to contenders, culminating in a magical 1962 season where LeBaron shared the quarterbacking duties with the up-and-coming Don Meredith.
While ultimately overshadowed by Meredith's stardom, LeBaron's impact on the Cowboys can't be overstated. He was the bridge between their early woes and their future glory, paving the way for their Super Bowl appearances and solidifying their place in the NFL landscape.
Beyond Dallas, LeBaron's legacy extends to breaking barriers. He proved that size didn't define greatness and that heart and talent could overcome physical limitations. He inspired countless underdogs, showing that dreams could be reached in inches, not just yards.
LeBaron's talent shone early. He led the College of the Pacific Tigers under Coach Amos Alonzo Stagg to victories and dazzled with his elusive agility and pinpoint throws. The NFL beckoned, but initial struggles against towering defenders threatened to dim his star. Eddie was selected by the Washington Redskins in the 10th round of the 1950 NFL Draft, but, after playing one season, was Drafted to serve the United States in the Korean War. He returned to D.C. after serving and filled future Hall of Fame QB Sammy Baugh, receiving All-Rookie honors by season's end. A knee injury a year later derailed his Redskins and possibly his NFL career.
His time in Canada with the CFL's Calgary Stampeders in 1954 proved an unexpected crucible, honing his skills and his resolve.
In 1960, fate presented an opportunity he wouldn't squander. As the newly-minted Dallas Cowboys, fresh off years of losing, took their first steps onto the NFL stage, they chose LeBaron as their leader. He wasn't just a quarterback; he was the franchise's face, its spark plug, its defiant howl against established giants.
The Cowboys stumbled initially, but LeBaron's spirit was infectious. He battled for every first down, his scrambles a blur of determination, his throws laser-like beams finding open receivers. Under his leadership, the Cowboys rose from doormats to contenders, culminating in a magical 1962 season where LeBaron shared the quarterbacking duties with the up-and-coming Don Meredith.
While ultimately overshadowed by Meredith's stardom, LeBaron's impact on the Cowboys can't be overstated. He was the bridge between their early woes and their future glory, paving the way for their Super Bowl appearances and solidifying their place in the NFL landscape.
Beyond Dallas, LeBaron's legacy extends to breaking barriers. He proved that size didn't define greatness and that heart and talent could overcome physical limitations. He inspired countless underdogs, showing that dreams could be reached in inches, not just yards.
