Ted Nesser

April 5, 1883, Columbus, Ohio

The Leader of the Nesser Family

• A true iron man who was one of the sport’s earliest and most versatile stars.

Ted Nesser was a football pioneer, a dominant force in the sport’s formative years. Born into a football family in Columbus, Ohio, he and his six brothers formed the core of the legendary Nesser family, a group of players whose talent and toughness were unmatched. Ted Nesser’s career spanned from the semipro ranks of the early 1900s to the official formation of the NFL. He was the most celebrated of the brothers, playing for numerous teams, including the Columbus Panhandles, where he was the team’s captain.

The Columbus Panhandles Football Team of 1915 courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

As a two-way player, Nesser was a master of his craft, excelling as both a guard on offense and a tackle on defense. His power and aggression made him a formidable presence on the field. More than just a lineman, he was also a skilled placekicker and, occasionally, a running back. His versatility made him an invaluable asset, and he was known for playing every minute of every game, a testament to his physical and mental fortitude.

Nesser’s legacy extends beyond his on-field accomplishments. He was a pillar of the early professional game, playing a significant role in establishing the Columbus Panhandles as a traveling powerhouse. In 1920, when the American Professional Football Association (APFA), the precursor to the NFL, was formed, Nesser and the Panhandles were one of the charter members. Ted Nesser’s name is synonymous with the dawn of professional football, and his contribution to the game’s development is celebrated to this day.