By Darin Hayes Most linebackers are tough, a characteristic the position requires for success. Some backers, though, are more rugged than others, as is the case with the subject of this post, who once wrestled a bear!
On October 30, 1950, future football legend Jim LeClair was born in St. Paul, Minnesota. LeClair was known for his legendary toughness throughout his collegiate and professional careers, but perhaps nothing illustrates his ferocity more than a verified, non-football story: he once famously pinned a 457-pound bear—named Victor—in a public wrestling match, delivering the massive animal its first-ever defeat! This incredible strength and relentless aggression were the hallmarks of his College Football Hall of Fame career at the University of North Dakota (UND).
Football Accolades & Accomplishments
- Unstoppable Senior Season (1971): While playing linebacker for the University of North Dakota, LeClair recorded one of the most statistically dominant seasons in school history, amassing 187 tackles, 20 tackles for loss, 11 forced fumbles, three interceptions, and four fumble recoveries.
- Conference MVP: His tremendous performance in 1971 earned him the North Central Conference MVP award.
- All-American Honors: He was named to the Little All-America team (AP) and the College Division All-America team (AFCA).
- Conference Champion: He led the University of North Dakota to the North Central Conference Championship in 1971.
- College Football Hall of Fame: Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1999.
- NFL Career: LeClair was a 3rd round draft pick and went on to play 12 seasons for the Cincinnati Bengals, making the Pro Bowl in 1976 and starting in Super Bowl XVI.
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