Football Daily

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.

The "Bronze Bullet" had exceptional quickness and acceleration. However, many pro teams overlooked him as he is one of the shortest men ever to play in the NFL. The collegeiate track star was drafted by an NFL rival in the 1947 AAFC Draft in the Special Draft by the New York Yankees.

At Illinois, Young won the National Collegiate 100- and 220-yard dash races and became the champion of those events. In the AAFC and NFL, he thrived, becoming a Pro Bowl player and Kick-off return leader.

Claude "Buddy" Young wasn't a giant in stature, but on the gridiron of the University of Illinois, he stood tall as a legend. His college football career, spanning 1942-1946, was a masterclass in speed, athleticism, and an indomitable spirit, etching his name forever in Illini history.

-Recruited from Chicago, Young's diminutive size (5'5", 163 lbs) raised eyebrows, but his talent silenced doubts.

-In his debut, he ripped off a 64-yard touchdown on the first play and another from 30 yards, showcasing his explosive speed.

-Young's talent exploded in 1944, earning him All-America honors. He tied the school record with 13 touchdowns and averaged nearly 9 yards per carry, leaving defenders in his dust.

-Young wasn't just a highlight machine; he was a natural leader, taking the helm as quarterback in 1945.

-He guided the Illini to a Big Ten Championship in 1946, cementing his legacy as one of the program's greatest leaders.

-Young's impact transcended wins and losses. His electrifying playing style drew record crowds and rekindled Illinois' passion for football.

Warren Rogan takes his Sports Forgotten Heroes podcast to new places to seek past athletes' memories and accomplishments. Claude "Buddy" Young (1926-2003) was a trailblazing African American athlete who left his mark on both college and professional football. Nicknamed the "Bronze Bullet" for his exceptional speed and acceleration, Young's career was a testament to talent, perseverance, and the fight for racial equality in sports.

College Standout:

A world-class sprinter, Young's athleticism translated seamlessly to football at the University of Illinois.
He earned the nickname "Bronze Bullet" for his electrifying runs, leading the Illini to a Big Ten Championship in 1946.
Young set the Big Ten single-season rushing record (later tied) and was named an All-American.
Pro Pioneer:

Despite facing racial discrimination, Young entered the NFL in 1947, playing for the New York Giants.
He established himself as a versatile threat, excelling as a running back, receiver, and kick returner.
Young racked up over 4,000 rushing yards and 2,000 receiving yards in his nine-year professional career.
He became one of the first African Americans to achieve significant success in the NFL.
Beyond the Field:

After retiring from playing, Young remained involved in football as an assistant coach and then an assistant commissioner for the NFL.
He worked to diversify the league and address racial inequities, paving the way for future generations of players.
Young was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1984 and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993.
Legacy:

Buddy Young's athletic prowess and unwavering spirit in the face of adversity made him a legend of the game. He not only excelled on the field, but also used his platform to advocate for equality and pave the way for future generations of African American athletes in football.