GRIDLINE's 2015 All-Dead Team
A tribute to the pro football players who have left us this year.
Click on tombstones for details.
View 2014 team
OFFENSE
DEFENSE
SPECIAL TEAMERS & SITUATIONAL PLAYERS
BENCH
January
1. Bill Keating, 70, DT, 6-2, 240
The first death of the year, Bill was the younger brother of Tom, who was on 2012's ADT. The Wolverine hooked up with the Denver Broncos in 1966 and split time with the Broncs and the Dolphins in 1967. Friends who knew Bill would say that he'd rather be remembered as a successful lawyer than as a pro footballer, but that's not what we do here. Maybe it was a short, undistinguished football career but Bill was one of the great builders of the old AFL and modern day football.
Bill fills the open hole at Defensive Tackle.
2. Bryan Caldwell, 54, DE, 6-4, 250
The Sundevil was drafted by the Cowboys in 1983, but didn't play until he hooked up with the Oilers in 1984, his only year. Bryan rejected traditional treatments for Hodgkin's Lymphoma.
Bryan fills the open hole at Defensive End.
3. Allie Sherman, 91, QB, 5-11, 170
The kid from Brooklyn College got on with the Phi/Pitt Steagles (a team that was combined because of WWII) in 1943. He continued on as a backup QB for the Eagles until 1946. After his playing career, Allie coached the Giants throughout the Sixties, then became a reknowned TV sports producer.
Allie fills the open hole at QB.
4. Bill Jessup, 85, E-P, 6-1, 200
The Trojan was drafted by the 49ers in 1951 and played for them through 1958. He missed 1953 and 1955 because of war concerns. He was on the 50's Frisco team that featured HOFrs Hugh McElhenny, Y.A.Tittle, Joe Perry and John Henry Johnson, although they were limited to a single playoff appearance. After a stint in the CFL in 1959, Jessup became an original member of the AFL and the Broncos. He only caught 61 passes over his long career but he gained 994 yards on a whopping 16.3 yards/catch. Bill was also a solid punter with 75 kicks, mostly in the last few years of his career.
Bill fills the open hole at End.
5. Jethro Pugh, 70, DT, 6-6, 260
The big guy from Elizabeth City St. was drafted by Dallas in 1965 and had a long 14-year career there through 1978. He was one of the original monster defensive linemen of the league, and he played in some of the pivotal games of his era. He was in the "Ice Bowl", in particular, he was the guy Jerry Kramer blocked to allow Bart Starr to sneak across the goal line. He played in 23 playoff games. Jethro lost his first Super Bowl to the Colts, and his last to the Steelers, but in between he won over the Fins and Broncos. He was always overshadowed by Randy White or Too Tall Jones or Bob Lilly, but even though Jethro didn't make a Pro Bowl you had to wonder if any of those guys were really better.
Jethro fills the open hole at Defensive Tackle.
6. Abe Karnofsky, 92, HB, 5-10, 175
'Sonny' played for the Eagles in 1945 and the Boston Yanks in 1946. He saw action as a reserve at HB, a kick returber, and even a DB. He had 77 runs, 13 catches, 1 INT and 35 kick returns, and scored 5 TDs. Sonny was teammates with Allie Sherman who currently QBs the ADT.
Sonny fills the open hole at Halfback.
7. Doug Cunningham, 69, RB, 6-0, 200
Doug was drafted out of Ole Miss in 1967 by the 49ers. He had a long career in Frisco, from 1967-1973, then joined the Redskins "Over the Hill Gang" for his last year, 1974. He was used mostly as a fill in and sometimes starter, and as a return man. His teams in Frisco made the playoffs a few times with John Brodie and Gene Washington and that gang, winning a few but ultimately losing conference titles to the Cows. He only had a few touches with the Skins, losing in the playoffs to the Rams. Doug was battling with dementia.
Doug Starts at RB alongside Abe Karnofsky.
8. Bill Roffler, 84, DB, 6-1, 200
Bill was drafted by Green Bay in 1952 but didn't play until 1954 with the Eagles. It was his only year, and on a poor team.
Bill fills the open hole at Cornerback.
9. Ray Nagel, 87, QB, 5-11, 180
The old Bruin played backup one season for a pretty bad Chicago Cardinals team in 1953. He was GM for the L.A. Rams in the mid-1980's.
Ray becomes our Placekick Holder and backup QB.
10. Tommy Mason, 75, RB, 6-1, 200
Tommy, from Tulane, was the first overall pick of the 1961 draft by Minnesota. He was THE original member of the Vikings, playing through 1966 with the expansion team. He played from 1967-1970 with the Rams, and finished his 11-year career with the Redskins in 1971 as a member of the "Over the Hill Gang." Tommy was the epitome of the NFLs hard-nosed runners of the 1960's. Though he never gained 1000 ysrds in a season, he gained 4203 yards on 1040 attempts in his career, and another 2324 yards on over 200 catches. He also returned kicks throughout his playing days, and even threw 9 HB passes with 2 going for TDs. In all, he scored 45 TDs, made the Pro Bowl 3 times and played in 3 playoff games.
Tommy becomes one of the running backs on the ADT, making Sonny Karnofsky the 3rd down back.
11. George Atkins, 82, G, 6-1, 210
The War Eagle was drafted by a pretty poor Lions team in 1955 and played for them that one year.
George fills the open hole at Guard.
12. Gary Henson, 74, E, 6-3, 200
Gary was drafted out of Colorado by the Eagles in 1963. He played that year for Philly - basically returning few kicks - and spent some time the next season with the Broncos of the old AFL.
Gary fills the open hole at WR.
February
13. Jesse Freitas, 63, QB, 6-1, 205
The Aztec was drafted by the Chargers in 1974 and played two seasons with them. He backed up a young Dan Fouts on a couple of pretty poor teams, but he did see a good amount of action, throwing for over 1200 yards in 13 games, including 8 TDs. Jesse was found unresponsive in his car in CA. The cause of death is currently unknown, but he did have serious head issues.
Jesse starts at QB on the ADT, making Allie Sherman our backup QB and Holder.
14. Bill Enyart, 67, RB, 6-4, 240
The Beaver was drafted by the Bills in 1969. He played two seasons with them before he joined the Raiders briefly in 1971. As a sometimes starter, Bill had just over 100 carries and just under 400 yards in his short career.
15. Bobby Towns, 76, DB, 6-1, 180
Towns was drafted out of Georgia by the Cardinals in 1960. He played some that one year for them and then played the next year with the Patriots.
Bobby fills the open hole at Safety.
16. Jim McCusker, 78, T, 6-2, 250
The Panther was drafted by the Cardinals in 1958. He played one year there, but spent most of his career, 1959-1962, with the Eagles. In 1963 he went to Cleveland and blocked for Jim Brown, and he finished up in 1964 with the Jets. Jim never made All-Pro but he started at Left Tackle when the Eags won the championship over the Pack in 1960.
Jim fills the open hole at Tackle.
17. Gary Glick, 84, S, 6-2, 200
The All-Star QB from Colorado St. was taken by the Steelers as the 1st overall pick in the 1956 draft. He mostly kicked FGs in his first year there as he was converted to DB. In the 1959 season he went to the Redskins and also played 1960 there. In 1961 he finished his NFL career with the Baltimore Colts. After a year off, he joined the AFC's San Deigo Chargers for one more season, winning the AFL Championship with them. Glick had 14 INTs and 2 fumble returns for TDs in all.
Gary fills the open hole at Safety.
18. Jack Davis, 82, G, 6-2, 240
The kid from Zona hooked up with the new Denver Broncos in 1960 and became an original Bronco and an original member of the AFL. He only played that one season. He was teammates with Bill Jessup of this year's ADT.
Jack fills the open hole at Guard.
19. Clyde Duncan, 54, WR, 6-1, 200
The Vol was drafted 17th overall by the Cardinals in 1984 but he didn't live up to his promise and only did two seasons in the NFL. He only caught a handful of passes but he did have 28 kick returns. No cause of death has been released.
Clyde becomes the ADT's kick returner on Special Teams.
20. Ed Modzelewski, 86, FB, 6-2, 220
Big Mo (of brothers Big Mo and Little Mo) was drafted out of Maryland in the first round of 1952 by the Steelers. He played that one season for them, then fulfilled his obligation as an Army officer. In 1955 he was traded to the Browns and had his best season, running for 619 yards and catching 13 passes from Otto Graham as Cleveland won the NFL Championship against the Rams. He played with the Browns until 1959, but Graham was gone and Ed was a backup to Jim Brown. The Browns were in another championship game but lost in 1957 to the Lions. In his career, Modzelewski ran and caught passes for over 1700 yards and scored 14 TDs.
Ed starts at Fullback, making Doug Cunningham a Situational Player as our 3rd Down Back.
21. Tom Bettis, 81, LB, 6-2, 230
The longtime Packer backer was drafted in the first round in 1955. He played in Green Bay for seven years, thru 1961, where he won the championship (over the Giants) in his last year there. He did 1962 with the Steelers. In 1963 he went to the Bears and won another championship, again over the Giants, in his last year in the league. After his stint as a player, Bettis became a longtime assistant and even interim coach at Kansas City.
Tom fills the open hole at Linebacker.
March
22. Dan Lewis, 78, RB, 6-1, 200
The Badger was drafted by the Lions in 1958 and played with them all the way thru 1964. He spent 1965 with the Redskins and his last year, 1966, with the Giants. He played mostly on mediocre teams although he just missed the playoffs one year with Earl Morrall and the Lions. Dan never made All-Pro but he did gain over 3200 yards rushing, caught 99 passes and scored 24 TDs in his career.
Dan becomes a Situational Player as the 3rd Down Back.
23. Dick Hensley, 87, E-DE, 6-4, 215
The old two-way End was drafted out of Kentucky by the Giants in 1949 where he played one year. He played one year for the Steelers in 1952, and his last year, 1953, for the Bears. He did catch 19 passes, including one for 60 yards.
Dick fills the open hole at Defensive End.
24. Jerry Wilson, 78, DE, 6-3, 240
The War Eagle was drafted by Chicago but hooked up with the Eagles in 1959. He played with them that year, and started out with them in 1960, their championhip season, but he was sent to the 49rs before that game. He only played those two years. Jerry was teammates with Jim McCusker of the ADT.
25. Joe O'Malley, 82, DE, 6-2, 220
The Georgia boy was drafted by Chicago in 1955 but played for the Pittsburgh Steelers that season and 1956 for them. He was teammates with Gary Glick of this year's ADT.
Joe becomes a Situational Player as a DE in our defensive line rotation.
26. Chuck Bednarik, 89, LB-C, 6-3, 235
The longtime Eagles LB and HOFer was drafted in 1949 out of Pennsylvania. He played his entire 14-year career with the Eags, 1949-1962. The 8-time Pro Bowler was with the team as a rookie when they beat the Rams for the Championship, but his career didn't really take off until the next year, when he began a string of 5 All-Pro honors as a two-way player. Chuck and the Eagles won another Championship over the Packers in 1960, when he played both Center and Linebacker. "Concrete Charlie" was outpoken and often critical of modern day players for being powderpuffs. He was teammates with Bill Roffler, Jerry Wilson and Jim McCusker of this year's ADT.
Chuck fills the open hole at Linebacker.
27. Vince Kendrick, 63, RB, 6-0, 230
The Gator was drafted by the Falcons in 1974 and played that one season for them in a backup role. He popped up briefly with the Bucs in 1976 but that was it for his football career. Vince died of cancer.
28. Ralph McGill, 64, S, 5-11, 180
The kid from Tulsa was drafted by the 49ers in 1972. He played 6 years there and his last 2 with the Saints. Ralph was a sometimes starter that had 8 INTs and several fumble recoveries, but he may have seen the most action as a kick returner with 133 returns, mostly punts. He was teammates with Doug Cunningham of this year's ADT.
Ralph replaces Bobby Towns at Safety. Bobby becomes a Situational Player in our Nickle and Dime packages.
29. Lavern Torgeson, 86, LB, 6-0, 215
The old timer from WSU was drafted by the Lions in 1951. He played the first part of his career with them, 1951-1954, and did 3 more years with the Redkins, 1955-1957. In Detroit, he won two championships with the Lions and Bobby Layne and Doak Walker and that gang, beating Cleveland twice in '52 and '53 before losing to them in 1954. He went to the Pro Bowl 3 times. "Torgy" had 18 INTs over his career and recovered 6 fumbles. After his playing days Torgeson was an NFL assistant coach for 35 years and even coached the Frankfurt Galaxy in 1996.
Torgy fills the open hole at Linebacker.
30. Jimmy Phillips, 79, WR, 6-1, 200
The Plainsman was selected by the Rams as the 5th overall pick in 1958. The 10-year receiver did not disappoint, starting for the Rams for 7 years and on the Vikings for his last 3. "Red" went to 3 Pro Bowls and caught over 400 passes from the likes of Roman Gabriel and Fran Tarkenton. Phillips was teammates with Tommy Mason of this year's ADT.
Red replaces Gary Henson as starter.
April
31. Eddie LeBaron, 85, QB, 5-9, 170
The kid from College of the Pacific was selected by the Redskins in the 1950 draft. After being called up to join the Korean War, the decorated Marine began his stint with the Redskins in 1952. Having replaced the aging Sammy Baugh at QB, LeBaron started for the 'Skins until 1959, although he did take 1954 off to play with the Calgary Stampeders of the CFL. In 1960, he became the Dallas Cowboy's first starting QB until he was replaced by Don Meredith in 1963, his last year. "The Little General" only had one winning season, but he was named to 4 Pro Bowls. In his long, illustrious career he completed half of his nearly 1800 passes for over 14000 yards and over a hundred TDs. Early on he also punted, and he played Safety in the 50's as well. LeBaron was teammates with Gary Glick of this year's ADT.
Eddie takes over the QB position from Jesse Freitas, who becomes our holder on FGs and our backup QB.
32. J. D. Smith, 82, RB, 6-1, 205
Smith was drafted out of NC A&T by the Bears in 1955. He started his career there as a DB in 1956, but went to the 49ers midway thru the season. He played with the Niners all the way through 1964, becoming their longtime starting RB along the way. In 1965 and 1966 he was a backup to Don Perkins with the Cowboys. In 1959 he ran for 1000 yards, and he gained 4800 yards rushing and receiving and had 46 TDs over his career. J.D. was named All-Pro in 59 and went to 2 Pro Bowls over his 11 years in the league. J.D. was teammates with Jerry Wilson and Bill Jessup of this year's ADT.
J.D. lines up beside Tommy Mason, making "Big Mo" Modzelewski our 3rd Down back.
33. Terdell Middleton, 59, RB, 6-0, 200
Terdell was drafted by St. Louis in 1977 but was traded to the Packers before the season. He played from 1977-1981 in Green Bay and did 1982 and 1983 with the Bucs, his last two years. His best year was 1978 when he gained over 1000 yards and made the Pro Bowl, but other than that he was a spot player. No cause of death was given.
34. Sam Cathcart, 59, HB-KR, 6-0, 175
Sam, from Cal Santa Barbara, started with the old 49ers of the AAFC in 1949. That team was absorbed into the NFL in 1950, and Sam had one more NFL year in 1952. He didn't do much from the backfield - mostly just watched Joe Perry run over people - but he did average 14 yards/punt return on 35 tries (nowadays it's 9).
We'll make Sam our Punt Returner and let Clyde Duncan focus solely on Kickoff Returns.
35. Dick Wood, 79, QB, 6-5, 205
The tall kid was drafted out of Auburn by the Colts in 1962 but instead ended up splitting that year in the AFL with the Broncos and the Chargers. In 1963 and 1964 he played for the Jets where he started all games but he was eventually moved out to make room for Joe Namath. In 1965 it was the Raiders, and in 1966 he became an original member and the 1st QB of the Miami Dolphins. The quintessential journeyman holds the record for the number different teams he played for in the AFL. Dick only completed 44% of his nearly 1200 passes but that didn't prevent him from becoming a longtime QB coach and OC for several teams (surprise) after his playing days. He was teammates with Jim McCusker of the ADT.
36. Charlie Sumner, 84, DB, 6-1, 195
The DB from William & Mary was drafted by the Bears in 1954. He played 1955 and 1958-1960 with them, before hooking up with the expansion Vikings in 1961 and 1962. He had 21 INTs over his 6 seasons. After his playing days, Charlie became an assistant coach in the NFL. In the 1984 Super Bowl he is credited with ordering the man coverage that resulted in a Pick Six just before halftime that helped the Raiders beat the Skins. He was teammates with Tommy Mason of this year's ADT.
Charlie fills the open hole at Cornerback.
37. Don Looney, 98, E, 6-1, 195
The Horned Frog was drafted by the Eagles in 1940 and had one spectacular season for them, catching 58 passes and making the Pro Bowl. He played some for the Steelers in 1941 and 1942, but he never made another splash in the game as he joined the war effort. The father of Joe Don Looney, Don was the oldest NFL player and the last surviving member of TCU's 1938 college championship team. He later became a league official.
Don fills the open hole at Tight End.
38. Art Powell, 78, WR, 6-3, 210
The Eagles drafted Art out of San Jose St. in 1959. He returned kicks and filled in at Safety that one year there, then he left the NFL behind to become a star reciever as an original member of the AFL. He joined the Titans (Jets) in 1960 and caught 69 passes for them, earning All-Pro honors in his first year. He played with the Titans through 1962, then was sold to Al Davis' Raiders in 1963. From 1963-1966 with the Raiders, Art caught over 250 pases and made the Pro-Bowl all four years. As his career wound down, Art spent 1967 with the Bills and did one game with the Vikings in 1968. All in all, he had 479 receptions at 16.8 yards/catch and 81 TDs, and he was named to the All-AFL team in 1970. He was teammates with Jim McCusker, Jerry Wilson, Chuck Bednarik, and Dick Wood of this yars ADT.
Art replaces Bill Jessup at WR. Bill becomes a Situational Player in our 3-receiver set.
39. Johnny Papit, 86, HB, 6-0, 190
The Cavalier was drafted by the Redkins in 1951. He spent 1951 and 1952 with the Skins, and split the 1953 season between the Skins and Packers. As a backup, he only gained 500 yards in his 3 years, but with average gains of 4 yards a carry and 17.6 a catch you have to wonder if those losing teams didn't utilize him correctly. Johnny was teammates with Eddie Lebaron of this year's ADT.
40. Rich Szaro, 67, K, 5-11, 205
The Harvard grad played for the Saints from 1975-1978, then hooked up with the Jets in 1979 but was cut afte one game. What Rich lacked in leg strength he made up for with nerves of steel. He made 28 out of 32 from within 40 yards with the Saints.
He was teammates with Ralph McGill of this year's ADT.
Rich fills the open hole at Placekicker.
41. Jim Mutscheller, 85, E, 6-1, 205
The Golden Domer was drafted by the Dallas Texans in 1952 but didn't play until he got on with the Colts in 1954. He spent his full 8 years in Baltimore, mostly catching pases from Johnny U. He made the Pro Bowl in 1957 and started in "The Greatest Game Ever Played" in 1958, a win against the Giants in Sudden Death for the Championship. He won the Championship again a year later against those same Giants. In all, Jim caught 220 pases for a whopping 16.7 yard average and scored 40 TDs. He was teamates briefly with Gary Glick of the ADT.
Jim starts at TE, making Don Looney a Situational Player in our 2 TE sets.
42. Ray Graves, 90, C, 6-1, 205
The Vol was drafted in 1942 by the Eagles and played that year and 1946 for them. In 1943 the old timer was a proud member of the famous Steagles - a combination of the Pittsburgh and Philadelphia teams that helped keep the game going during the war. Ray was teammates on the Steagles with QB Allie Sherman of this year's ADT.
Ray fills the open hole at Center.
43. Jimmy Gunn, 66, LB, 6-1, 225
Gunn was drafted by the Bears out of USC in 1970. He played 5 full years for the Bears then split the 1975 season between them and the Giants. He finished his playing days in 1976 as an original member of the Tampa Bay Bucs. Though he was mostly a backup he did manage to collect a couple of INTs as a LB. He was teammates with Vince Kendrik of this year's ADT. His heart failed.
Jimmy joins the ADT as a Situational Player as the 4th LB in our 4 LB sets.
44. Laverne Torczon, 79, DE, 6-3, 250
The Cornhusker caught on with the AFL in 1960, becoming an original member of the league and the Buffalo Bills. He played there 1960 and 1961, then split time between them and the Titans in 1962. He stayed with the Jets through their name change, 1962-1965, and spent his last season as an original member of the Miami Dolphins. Laverne was an All-Pro in his first two years in Buffalo. He was teammates with Art Powell, Jim McCusker and Dick Wood of this year's ADT.
Laverne replaces Bryan Caldwell at Defensive End. Bryan drops into our D-line rotation.
45. Bob St. Clair, 84, T, 6-9, 265
The tall guy from Frisco's collegiate championship team was huge for his era. He was drafted by the 49ers and played his entire 11-year career there, 1953-1963. Bob made All Pro or the Pro Bowl almost every year. The HOF'r was in good company, playing with fellow HOF'rs Y.A. Tittle, Joe Perry, Hugh McElhenny and John Henry Johnson. Despite their explosiveness on offense the 49ers never seriously challenged for the NFL championship. Bob was called "The Geek" for a movie role in which he portrayed a man who ate live animals, and he served as the mayor of Daly City, CA at one point during his football career. He was teammates with Bill Jessup, Jerry Wilson and J.D. Smith of this year's ADT.
Bob fills the open hole at Tackle.
46. Doug Buffone, 70, LB, 6-3, 230
Doug was drafted out of Louisville in 1966 by the Bears and had a long, 14-year career in the Windy City, 1966-1979. He started alongside Dick Butkus for the first half of his career, then became the uncontested leader of the Bears Backing corps. Doug never made the Pro Bowl, playing for mostly mediocre teams, but he was one of those great old, hard-nosed, familar players of the 70's. Doug became a local radio celebrity in Chitown after his playing days. He was teammates with Jimmy Gunn of this year's ADT.
Doug replaces Tom Bettis at LB. Tom becomes a LB in our 4 LB sets.
47. Jim Steffen, 78, DB, 6-0, 200
The Bruin was drafted by the Lions in 1959. He played until 1961 with them, then moved to the Redskins in the middle of 1961 until he retired in 1965. Jim played in the secondary as needed and returned kicks in an unspectacular career, but he was known as an exceptional tackler. He was teammates with Dan Lewis of the ADT.
Jim replaces Bill Roffler at Corner. Bill becomes a Nickle back for us.
May
48. Marv Hubbard, 68, FB, 6-1, 230
The big guy from Colgate was drafted by Oakland in 1968 and had a great career with the Raiders, 1969-1975, and he had his last year, 1977, with the Lions. He was part of a punishing backfield including Pete Banaszac and Hewritt Dixon. Marv took part in several, memorable playoff losses for the Raiders: A loss to KC that included Ben Davidson's flying head butt to the back of a prone Len Dawson, the loss to Pittsburgh featuring the Immaculate Reception, and losses to eventual champions Miami and Baltimore. Marv was a hard-nosed FB who led with the helmet and always fell forward. He made the Pro Bowl on 3 occasions. His best year may have been 1972 when he gained 1100 yards on a whopping 5 yards/carry, and he gained 5172 yards rushing and receiving in his career. He started ahead of Bill Enyart of this year's ADT. Marv died of prostate cancer.
Marv starts at FB, replacing J.D.Smith, who becomes our 3rd Down Back.
49. Garo Yepremian, 70, K, 5-8, 175
Old timers remember Yepremian as the funny little foreigner who made the historically inept faux pass which resulted in a Redskin TD in the 1973 Super Bowl. Ironic that it capped a perfect season for the Dolphins. But it must be noted that the Pro Bowler was an All-Pro that year, and Garo was selected as the 1970's kicker of the decade by the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The long-time veteran's career began in 1966 with the Detroit Lions, and he kicked there in 1967 as well. The Cyprus immigrant was one of the very first soccer style kickers in the NFL (Pete Gogolak). He skipped 1968 and 1969, and hooked up with the Miami Dolphins in 1970. It was marriage that lasted until 1978, and it featured 3 Super Bowls, and Garo kicking the winning FG in the longest game ever played, against KC. After a brief stint as a bartender, Garo was picked up by the Saints in 1979. He kicked in Tampa Bay 1980 and 1981, his last two years as a player. By the time he was through, Garo ("I keeked a touchdown!") Yepremian had scored over 1000 points. He died of a brain tumor.
Garo replaces Rich Szaro at Placekicker, as he did for the Saints in 1979.
50. Adrian Robinson, 25, LB, 6-1, 250
The Owl was a UDFA who finally got on with the Pittsburgh Steelers for the 2012 season. He was cut after that one year and tried again in 2013 with the Broncos, then the Chargers, and the Redskins - ultimately getting released by everyone. He did manage to sign with the Hamilton Tigercats of the CFL at the start of this month, but the former MAC defensive player of the year committed suicide by hanging before he could play for them.
51. Billy Baggett, 85, HB/DB, 5-11, 175
The LSU boy was picked up by the Dallas Texans in 1952 and played with them for their one, forgettable, season in the NFL. Billy only had a couple of touches a game but he was the Texans primary kick returner and he also got a pick.
52. Bob Priestley, 95, E, 5-11, 190
The kid from Brown was picked up by the Eagles in 1942 and played with them for one season. Bob caught 4 passes from Tommy Thompson for the Eags. He was a teammate of Ray Graves of the ADT.
53. John Siegal, 97, E, 6-1, 200
The Columbia product was drafted by the old Brooklyn Dodgers in 1939 but luckily ended up with the Chicago Bears. He played there from 1939-1943, a period when the Bears were 3-1 in NFL Championships, including the 73-0 blowout of the Redskins. John made All-Pro 3 times. He caught 31 passes over his career, mainly from Sid Luckmanm, and scored 6 TDs in an era when passing wasn't particularly prevalent.
John becomes a backup in our multi-receiver sets.
54. Kevin Hunt, 66, OL, 6-5, 250
Kevin, from the college of Doane, was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 1971. He played there in 1972, then split time with the Patriots and the Oilers the next season. He remained an Oiler until 1977, then did his last year with the Saints. He never did do any Pro Bowls or make any All-Pro teams, and he lost his only playoff game to the "Over the Hill Gang" at Green Bay, but the journeyman had a solid NFL career. He was teammates with Ralph McGill and Rich Szaro.
Kevin starts at guard on the ADT.
55. Ed Fullerton, 84, DB, 5-10, 190
The Terrapin was drafted by Frisco but ended up playing just one season with the Steelers in 1953.
June
56. Henry Carr, 72, DB, 6-3, 190
Carr won the Gold in the 200 meters in the 1964 Olympic games in Tokyo. The Sun Devil sprinter was drafted by the Giants in 1965, and played 3 seasons in the secondary until 1967. It was a mediocre team, and Carr never made All-Pro, but he did get 7 picks, including one he returned 101 yards for a TD. He was teammates with Dan Lewis and was coached by Allie Sherman of the ADT.
Henry starts at one Corner, sending Jim Steffen to our Nickle package.
57. John Mellekas, 81, OL-DL, 6-3, 250
The big guy from Zona was drafted by the Bears in 1956 and played 6 full years for them, through 1961. He then became a journeyman, playing 1962 with the 49ers, and 1963 with the Eagles to cap his 8-year career. John played every position on the line, offensively and defensively, and even had several starts at Center. As a rookie, he was on the Bears roster when they lost to the Giants in the NFL Championship. He was teammates with J,D. Smith, Charlie Sumner, Bob St. Clair, and Gary Henson of the ADT.
John becomes a Situational Player in our Defensive Line rotation.
58. John David Crow, 79, HB, 6-2, 220
After a College HOF career, the Aggie Heisman trophy winner was drafted 2nd overall by the Chicago Cardinals in 1958. The All-Pro had a long and illustrious career, spending 7 years with a losing Cards team (through their move to St, Louis) and his last 4 with the mediocre 49ers, 1965-1968. He made 4 Pro Bowls, but his best year may have been 1960, when he ran for 1071 yards on 183 carries - an astonishing 5.9 yards/attempt. In all, he ran for nearly 5000 yards and had another 3700 receiving yards, and he scored 73 TDs. After his playing days, John became an NFL assistant, then a college administrator, finishing up back at Texas A&M as their Athletic Director in the 1990's. He was on teams with Bobby Towns and Jim McCusker of the ADT.
John starts at HB, making Tommy Mason our Third-Down back.
59. Steve Pritko, 94, E, 6-2, 210
The tall boy from Villanova was drafted by the Cleveland Rams in 1943 but played that year with the Eagles before returning to the Rams for the 1944-1947 seasons. In 1948 he played for the short-lived Boston Yanks, and then started 1959 with the short-lived New York Bulldogs, before splitting that year with the Packers. His last year was 1950 with those Packers. For his career, Steve had over a thousand yards receiving and scored 13 TDs. He never made the Pro Bowl (or it's 40's equivalent, the All-Star game) but he was named All-NFL in 1945. The old guy came from an era when the league was small, expansion franchises didn't take, passing was still a novelty and players had to be pinned to be tackled. After his playing days Pritko became an NFL official, and just last month he was inducted into the Lehigh Valley Chapter of the National Football Foundation.
Steve replaces Don Looney in our two TE sets.
60. Danny Villanueva, 77, K-P, 5-11, 200
The straight-on kicker and punter from New Mexico St. got on with the Rams in 1960. He played on Rams' losing teams for 5 years, thru 1964, then hooked up with the Cowboys, who he kicked for from 1965-1967. He was with the Landry/Meredith Dallas team that lost a couple of NFL Championship games to the Pack. In fact, his last FG was a 21-yarder in the Ice Bowl. Villanueva only hit a little more than half his FGs, but that was about par for the 60's. He was especially valuable because he punted as well - with a solid 43 yard average - saving a roster spot on those 42-man teams. Danny went on to become a self-made millionaire in spanish TV. He was teammates with Jimmy Phillips and J.D.Smith of the ADT.
Danny becomes the Punter on the ADT.
61. Monk Bailey, 77, DB, 6-2, 180
The Ute played in the CFL for a few years before he caught on with the St. Louis Cardinals of the NFL in 1964. He saw mostly spot duty there until 1965. Monk was teammates with John David Crow of this year's ADT.
Monk becomes an extra DB in our Dime formation.
62. Dick Stanfel, 87, G, 6-3, 235
The big guy was with the famous San Francisco Dons in college and was selected by the Lions in the 1951 draft. The perennial All-Pro joined a long, offensive line of All-Pros in Detroit as they won two out of the three NFL Championships they competed for in 1952, '53 and '54 (all 3 in games against the Browns). He protected Bobby Lane and opened holes for Doak Walker in Detroit from 1952-1955, then went to the Washington Redskins from 1956-1958, where he continued to collect All-Pro honors protecting Eddie Lebaron. Dick was a member of the 1950's All-Decade team. Oddly enough, the 6-time All-Pro has yet to be named to the HOF. After his playing days, Dick became an accomplished assistant coach, even doing a stint as a Saints interim head coach. He was teammates with George Atkins, "Torgy" Torgeson, and LeBaron of the ADT.
Dick replaces Jack Davis at Guard.
63. Robert Sowell, 54, DB, 5-11, 175
Robert took a roundabout path to the NFL, dropping out of college and doing odd jobs and some CFL work until he was eligible for the NFL, then he essentially made the Dolphins as a walk on. He played from 1983-1987 at Miami (although he took 1986 off). Robert was an expert Gunner on special teams but rarely saw play in the secondary. He played in the 1985 Super Bowl when the Joe Montana led 49ers creamed his Marino led team. Sowell died of a heart attack.
Robert becomes a Gunner on Special Teams.
64. Damion Cook, 36, OL, 6-5, 340
The big guy from Bethune-Cookman bounced around on several practice squads befor he hooked up with the Ravens. He played there 2002 and 2003, and parts of 2004 before he was shipped to Cleveland for the remainer of the year. He didn't make a team in the next few years but he was on more practice squads. In 2008 he made the woeful (0-16) Lions. He was the quintessential backup throughout his career but he did make a few starts when any one along the line went down. The young man died of a heart attack.
65. Willie Daniel, 77, CB, 5-11, 160
The Bulldog wasn't drafted but ended up with the Steelers in 1961. He played there through 1966, then did his last 3 seasons in L.A. with the Rams, 1967-1969. Willie was mainly s backup but he did start several games over his 9-year career, amassing 17 INT's. He was on teams with Tom Bettis and Tommy Mason of the ADT.
Willie becomes an extra defensive back in our Nickle and Dime packages.
66. Pete Athas, 68, CB, 5-11, 185
Pete dropped out of college and took a roundabout route to the NFL. He led the Continental league in INTs for two years before he was drafted by the Cowboys in 1970, and he finally landed with the Giants in the early Seventies, 1971-1974. He was a tough player there, often starting at CB and always returning punts. He split 1975 with the Browns and the Vikes, and did his lasy year, 1976, with the Saints. The kid was a ball hawk, snatching 16 INTs, recovering 13 fumbles and returning 92 punts throughout his career. He was teammates with Rich Szaro of the ADT.
Pete takes over the starting CB job from Henry Carr, who becomes our Nickle-back.
July
67. Charlie Sanders, 68, TE, 6-4, 225
The HOF Tight End was drafted by the Lions in 1968. He played his entire career in Detroit, up umtil 1977. The lanky player made 7 Pro Bowls and was named All-Pro 3 times. Charlie was an excellent blocker, and he steadily caught about 3 passes of 14 yards in each game over his 10 years in the league, with 31 TDs. That was in a time when few Tight Ends would even go over the middle. The Lions had some great names on the teams in which Charlie played - Alex Karras, Gregg Landry, Altie Taylor, Lem Barney, Dick LeBeau - but they never played to expectations and his teams only played in one playoff game, a 5-0 loss to Dallas in 1970. Charlie was teammates briefly with Marv Hubbard of the ADT.
The truest of the true Tight Ends takes over in the starting lineup, making Jim Mutscheller a Situational Player as the 2nd TE.
68. Tom Longo, 73, S, 6-1, 200
The Golden Domer was drafted by the Eags in 1965 but didn't make the NFL until he hooked up with the Giants in 1969. He did 1970 with them, too, and finished up with the Cardinals in 1971. The 'sometimes' starter had 4 INTs in his 3-years.
69. Kenny Stabler, 69, QB, 6-3, 215
The lefty from Bama's National Championship team was drafted in 1968 by the Raiders. The Snake didn't make the team proper until 1970, and he didn't replace Daryl Lamonica until the end of 1972, when he spelled the Mad Bomber in the game featuring Franco Harris' "Immaculate Reception". In 1973 he was named to the Pro Bowl after losing the AFC Championship game to the Fins. The next year he made All-Pro as he beat the Fins on the famous "Sea of Hands" pass to Charlie Davis, but that team lost the AFC Championship to the Steelers. Kenny's Raiders finally broke through in 1976, beating the Vikes in Super Bowl XI. In 1980 and 1981 he was with the Oilers, and the aging gunslinger spent the last 3 of his 15 NFL years with the Saints, 1982-1984. Wherever football history was being made in the 70's, the Snake was never far behind. The hard-drinking, hard-living Zone buster was involved in the "Holy Roller" fumble play that led to an Oakland victory and led to rule changes as well. The 4-time Pro Bowler threw for nearly 28000 yards and he tossed 194 TDs in his career. He was teammates with Bill Enyart and Marv Hubbard of this year's ADT. The colon cancer victim may finally get the necessary HOF votes for donating his brain to science.
Kenny starts as the ADT's QB, sending Eddie LeBaron to a spot as holder for FGs.
70. Jajuan Dawson, 37, WR, 6-1, 200
Jajuan went from catching TDs from Shaun King on Tulane's undefeated college football team to being drafted into the NFL by the new Cleveland Browns in 2000. He came off the bench to catch increasingly more passes at Cleveland in 2000 and 2001, then did the same as an original member of the Houston Texans in 2002. In his 3 year career he caught over 50 passes with 2 going for TDs. The honor student and successful medical supply salesman dove off a boat on a Texas lake and never resurfaced.
71. Mike Kostiuk, 95, T, 6-0, 210
Mike, out of little Detroit Tech, ended up with the Cleveland Rams in 1941, then popped up in 1945 with the Lions. In between and afterwards, he played with an Army team and in the AAFC. Mike was a true footballer and a pioneer of the game, and he was the oldest former Lion at the time of his death.
72. Mike Pyle, 76, C, 6-3, 250
Pyle was one of the great, nameless, offensive linemen of the '60s. Drafted out of Yale, he had a long career with the Bears, from 1961-1969, Although he played on mostly mediocre teams, he started every game for them, made All-Pro in 1963, and won the NFL championship that year over the Giants. Mike protected Billy Wade and Ed "All-Around" Brown, and opened holes for Gayle Sayers and Brian Piccolo. He was teammates with Tom Bettis, Doug Buffone, and John Mellekas of the ADT.
Mike starts at Center on the ADT, replacing Ray Graves, who becomes the holder on placekicks.
73. Curtis Brown, 60, RB, 5-10, 200
Brown was drafted out of Mizzou in 1977 by the Bills and had a good career in Buffalo that lasted thru 1982, with his last year in 1983 with the Oilers. He was the fullback after the O.J. era during Ferguson's reign. Over his career he gained nearly 3000 yards rushing and receiving and he scored 14 TDs. Curtis was being treated for dementia.
74. Rip Hawkins, 76, LB, 6-3, 235
The Tarheel was drafted in 1961 and became an original member of the Minnesota Vikings. He started in the middle for them through the 1965 season. Rip made the Pro Bowl one time. He had 5 INTs, scored a few TDs and had a Safety in his five years with Minnesota. In general, an opposing receiver going over the middle against the Vikings was taking his life in his hands. He was teammates with Tommy Mason, Red Phillips, and Charlie Sumner of the ADT.
August
75. Mel Farr, 70, RB, 6-2, 210
The Bruin was the 7th player picked in the 1967 draft, He played 7 solid years for the Detroit Lions, through 1973. Mel was big for a RB back in those days, and his opponents felt it. He waded into the pile and always fell forward. His brutal, reserved style was the perfect contrast to his hectic running mate, Altie Taylor. Farr was named Rookie of the Year and went to two Pro Bowls. Over his career, he rushed for 3972 yards and caught passes for 1374 more. The Lions only made one playoff game with Mel, losing in '70 to the Cows, 5-0. You can hear him today as a backup singer on Marvin Gaye's original recording of "What's Going On", along with Lem Barney. He was teamates with the great Charlie Sanders, and briefly with Garo Yepremian of this year's ADT. May they all rest in peace.
Mel starts at RB on the ADT, replacing John David Crow, who becomes the 3rd Down Back.
76. Ray Hill, 39, CB, 6-0, 180
The undrafted Spartan was a journeyman between two teams. His career began with the Bills in 1998 but he went to the Dolphins later in the year. He played for Miami in 1999 and part of 2000 before he finished up back in Buffalo. In the 2001 preseason for New England, he busted his leg. Ray died after a long battle with colon cancer.
77. Frank Gifford, 84, HB, 6-1, 200
The HOFr was drafted out of USC in 1952 by the Giants, where he played his entire career, 1952-1964, although he sat out 1961 when fellow HOFr and ADT member Chuck Bednarik's vicious hit knocked him out for the season. He was named All-Pro 4 times and played in 8 Pro Bowls as a running back, defensive back and flanker. Frank won the championship with the Giants in 1956 against the Bears when he was the league MVP. He went to several other championship games but lost them all, to the Pack, the Bears, and a couple to the Colts, including a 23-17 OT loss in "The Greatest Game Ever Played." Over his career, the Giffer gained 9000 yards rushing and receiving and scored 77 TDs. He holds the record for passes thrown by a non-QB (63), and he had a couple of INTs and he even scored kicking. After football, he became a top play-by-play man and later was one of the original members of the groundbreaking MNF broadcasts. Eventually, he married Kathy Lee Johnson of TV's "Name that Tune". As his wife became famous for "Live with Regis and Kathy Lee" and he continued on MNF, they had kids and became one of America's top families. In all, he was a great football player, a great broadcaster, and a great family man. Gifford was coached by Allie Sherman of this year's ADT.
HOF Running Back Frank Gifford starts on the ADT, replacing the great Mel Farr, who becomes the 3rd Down Back.
78. Jim Gaffney, 94, HB, 6-1, 205
The old Volunteer was drafted by the Redskins in 1944 and played in 1945 and 1946 for them. Although he was just a spot player he did make the Championship game in '44, losing to the Cleveland Rams.
79. Gordy Holz, 82, DT, 6-4, 260
The Gopher finshed college in 1955 but didn't hook up with Denver until 1960 to become an original member of the Broncos and of the AFL. He played through 1963 on some pretty poor Bronco teams, and had his last year in 1964 with the Jets. Gordy was teammates with Bill Jessup, Jack Davis, Dick Wood, "Tarzan" Torczon and Jim McCusker of this year's ADT.
80. Mike Gaechter, 75, S, 6-0, 190
The Duck got on with a young Cowboy team in 1962 and played his entire career there through 1969. He began starting in the Cowboy's lean years and became a fixture during their first heyday from 1966-1969, where the Cows lost playoff games to the Pack and the Browns. Mike started at Safety in the famous "Ice Bowl", where Bart Starr snuck in for a TD on the last play of the game. In all, Mike had 21 INTs, returning one a hundred yards for a TD. He was teammates with J.D.Smith and Danny Villanueva of the ADT.
Gaechter starts at Safety on the ADT, replacing Ralph McGill, who joins the Nickle and Dime packages.
81. Joe Skibinski, 86, G, 5-11, 245
The Boilermaker was drafted by the Browns in 1952 and played that one year for them. They made it to the Championship but lost to Detroit. Joe took off a couple of seasons and resurfaced with the Packers in 1955 and 1956. He was teammates with John Bettis of the ADT. Skibinski's son, John, played with the Bears in the late Seventies.
82. Tom Scott, 84, DE-LB, 6-2, 220
The Cavalier was drafted in 1953 by the Rams but ended up at DE for the Eagles from 1953-1958. He had a great stretch there, making All-Pro and playing in 2 Pro Bowls while on some pretty mediocre Philly teams. He then joined the Giants for the second half of his career, 1959-1964. There, he moved to LB and found the NFL Championship game 4 times, but lost them all to the Colts, Bears, and twice to the Packers. He ended up with a few INTs. Tom was teammates with Bill Roffler, and HOFrs Chuck Bednarik and Frank Gifford, and was coached by Allie Sherman of the ADT.
Tom replaces Dick Hensley at DE, moving Dick down into the DL rotation.
September
83. Jack Linn, 48, OL, 6-5, 300
The Mountaineer was drafted by the Lions in 1990 but didn't play until he hooked up with the Colts 1991. He found himself back with the Lions in 1992, but was sent to the Bengals to finish the 1993 season, after which he called it quits. Jack died in a motorcycle accident in Florida.
84. Tyler Sash, 27, DB, 6-0, 215
After a sparkling college career at Iowa, the Hawkeye was drafted by the Giants in 2011. He played the entire year for them, mostly as a Special Teamer, helping the team win the Super Bowl over the Patriots. In 2012 he returned to the Diants after a suspension for Adderall, played a few games, then suffered a concussion that ended his career. Tyler was found unresponsive in his home, the cause of death is pending an autopsy and lab tests.
85. Steve Meilinger, 84, E, 6-2, 230
Drafted out of Kentucky in 1954 by the Redskins, the big guy didn't see action until 1956. He played that year and 1957 for the Skins, and 1958 and 1960 for the Packers, where he lost in the Championship game to the Eags. He finished his career with the Steelers in 1961. Steve was pretty effective at End his first 3 seasons, catching 50 balls from fellow ADTer Eddie Lebaron in an era where catches were rare. His 14 yards/catch are still rare. Aside from LeBaron, he was a teammate of Dick Stanfel and Willie Daniel of the ADT.
Steve becomes a Situational Player in the 3 and 4 receiver sets.
86. Bill Larson, 77, FB, 5-10, 190
Bill was a walkon from Illinois Wesleyan who played briefly with the Boston Patriots as an original member of the AFL.
87. Allen Aldridge, 71, DE, 6-6, 250
The big guy from Prairie View wasn't drafted but hooked up with the Houston Oilers in 1971. He was on the team for two years before he did his last season with the Browns in 1974.
October
88. Tom Goode, 76, C, 6-3, 245
The Mississippi St. Bulldog was drafted by the Houston Oilers in 1962. He didn't start in their AFL Championship loss to the old Dallas Texas (K.C, Chiefs) that year, but he did start in 1964 and saw good playing trime until he was traded to the 1966 Miami Dolphins. He started there as an original member of the Fins, up until 1969, the year he made the Pro Bowl. He then rode the bench with the Colts in 1970 as they beat the Cows in the Super Bowl. He was teammates with Dick Wood, Laverne 'Tarzan' Torczon, and Bill Keating, the first member of the 2015 ADT.
Tom becomes our deep snapper on Special Teams.
89. Sam Adams, 67, G, 6-3, 260
The big guy from Prairie View wasn't drafted but hooked up with the New England Patriots in 1972. He became a fixture at guard there, 1972-1980. Sam played in 2 playoff games, protecting Steve Grogan and opening holes for Sam Cunningham and Andy Johnson, but he never made any Pro Bowls or All-Pro teams. He did his last year, 1981, in New Orleans. He was teammates with Kevin Hunt of the ADT.
Sam started ahead of Kevin Hunt in 1973, and does so again on the 2015 ADT.
90. Paul Costa, 73, TE, 6-6, 270
The Golden Domer was drafted by both the Pack and the Chiefs in 1964 but didn't get his chance until he hooked up with the Bills the next season. The tall guy was a stalwart TE for the Bills for 8 seasons, 1965-1972. He made the Pro Bowl his first two years, catching passes from Jack Kemp while the Bills lost AFC Champonship games to the Chargers and Chiefs. As the seasons went by he was mostly relegated to blocking duties in the dawn of the O.J. era. Paul finished his career with 102 catches for 1700 yards. He was teammates with Bill Enyart and Art Powell of the ADT.
91. Timothy Gray, 62, DB, 6-1, 200
The Aggie was a first round pick of the Cardinals in 1975. He was a reserve on that tean as the Cards lost in the playoffs to he Rams. From 1976-1978 he started at safety for a fair to poor Chiefs team, then did his last year, 1979, on the equally poor 48er team. Over his 5 years, Tim had 13 INTs.
Tim replaces Ralph McGill in our Nickle and Dime formations.
92. Aubrey Rozzell, 82, LB, 6-2, 215
The Delta St. product played one year for the Steelers in 1957. He had an INT. Aubrey was teammates with Gary Glick of the ADT.
93. Tyrone Young, 55, WR, 6-2, 215
The tall, fleet footed Gator hooked up up with the Saints in 1983. He saw spot duty his first year, but broke out in his second season, catching 29 passes in 1984 for a whopping 20.6 yards/catch. He scored 6 TDs in his two years in the league before injuries brought him down. Tyrone caught a few passes from the great Snake Stabler of the ADT in his first year. The clutch receiver was diagnosed with multiple myeloma over ten tears ago.
Tyrone becomes a Situational Player in our multi-receiver sets.
94. Jack Johnson, 81, DB, 6-3, 200
The Hurricane was drafted by the Jacks in 1957 and played for them through 1959. In 1960 he became an original member of the AFL with the Bills, where he played until midway through the 1961 season, which he split with the old Dallas Texans (the new Kansas City Chiefs) to finish his career. Jack had 8 INTs in his career, but he also was a prolific punter with 30 kicks. He was teammates with Charlie Sumner, Jim Mellekas, and "Tarzan" Torczon of the ADT.
95. Bruce Hansen, 54, RB, 6-1, 225
The BYU Cougar got a few touches with the Patriots in 1987. Bruce, whose family members have a history of dying young, died of natural causes.
96. Rufus Granderson, 79, DT, 6-5, 280
The big guy from Prairie View hooked up with the old Dallas Texans in 1960 to become an original member of the AFL. That was the only year he played.
97. Gorden Kelley, 77, LB, 6-3, 230
The Georgia Bulldog hooked up with the 49ers in 1960 and played that year and 1961 with them. Re the did his last two seasons with the Redskins, 1962-1963. Gorden was a solid LB who picked off 1 or 2 balls each season. He was teammates with J.D. Smith, Bob St. Claire, Jim Steffen, and briefly with Jerry Wilson of the ADT.
98. Dennis Morgan, 63, RB, 5-11, 200
The speedster from West Illinois was drafted by the Cowboys in 1974 and spent that season returning punts and kickoffs. He then went to the Eagles in 1975 and made a few more returns. In his two years, he had 27 punt returns for 347 yards, with a 98-yarder for a TD, and 42 kickoff returns for 993 yards. Dennis died tragically and poetically of a heart attack in the stands of the Giant's MetLife stadium during a Cowboys/Giants game, which the Giants won on a last minute kickoff return.
Dennis replaces Sam Cathcart on Special Teams as our punt returner.
99. Nick Bolkovac, 87, DT, 6-1, 230
The Panther got on with the Steelers in 1953 and played 2 years. He was an old 2-way lineman and kicker when playing multiple positions was advatageous on the small rosters. As a kicker, Nick made about half of his tries and he made nearly all of his extra points, which wasn't bad in those days. The versatile player also returned a fumble for a TD. The man was a virtual scoring machine. Nick was teammates with Ed Fullerton of the ADT.
November
100. Charlie Anderson, 82, E-DE, 6-0, 230
The kid from LA Tech was drafted by the Chicago Cardinals in 1956. He played a couple of games as a reserve that one year.
101. Fred McNeil, 63, LB, 6-2, 230
The Bruin was a 1st round draft pick of the Vikings in 1974. His first year there the Vikes went to the Super Bowl, losing to the Steelers. Fred's Vikes went to the Super Bowl again two years later, losing to the Raiders this time. Fred played all the way to 1985, completing a stellar 12-year career in Minnesota. Over the years, he had 7 INTs and 16 fumble recoveries, and he recovered a blocked punt for a TD in Super Bowl XI.
Fred becomes the extra LB in our 4 LB sets.
102. Chuck Hurston, 72, LB, 6-6, 240
The Auburn Tiger ended up playing with the Chiefs of the old AFL in 1965. He had a long career there, thru 1970, before capping it off in 1971 with with the Bills. Hurston saw a lot of playing time as a sometimes starter. He went to two Super Bowls with the Chiefs starting in the first one ever, a loss to Green Bay in 1967, and seeing playing time in 1970, a win over the Vikes.
Hurston joins the ADT as a Situational Player in our Defensive Line rotation.
103. Henrik Sortun, 73, G, 6-2, 235
The Huskie was drafted by the Cardinals in 1964 and spent his entire career there, through 1969. Rik was on a few good teams but they never quite made the playoffs, He protected Charlie Johnson and Jim Hart in the 60's. He was teammates with John David Crowe and Monk Bailey of the ADT.
104. Ron Drzewiecki, 82, HB, 5-11, 185
Drafted in the first round out of Marquette by the Bears, Ron played sparingly as a RB with Ed "All Around" Brown and that gang, and he returned kicks in 1955 and 1957. Ron was teammates with Charlie Sumner, John Melleckas and Jack Johnson of the ADT.
105. Ed Lechner, 95, G, 6-1, 200
The Old Timer hooked up with the Giants out of Minnesota in 1942 and played that one year there.
106. James Evans, 52, RB, 6-0, 220
James was drafted out of Southern by the Chiefs in 1987 and got in a couple of games there. The cause of James death is currently unknown but we do know he died peacefully.
107. Quincy Monk, 36, LB, 6-3, 250
The Tarheel was drafted by the Giants and played as a reserve there in 2002 and 2003. He did his last year, 2004, with the Texans. After suffering a stroke in 2015, Quincy was diagnosed with cancer.
108. Tom Dublinski, 85, QB, 6-2, 210
The kid from Utah was drafted in 1952 by the Lions and played there thru 1954, where he backed up Bobby Layne. He watched Bobby win two championships against the Browns, and get blown out by the Browns for the championship in 1954. Tom filled in for Bobby that year in 4 games, his only real action in the NFL. As a starter, Tom did quite well, compiling a 4-1 record and averaging 14 yards/completion while throwing more TDs that INTs. After 1954 he played in the CFL, playing well again, then rejoined the NFL in New York in 1958 with the Giants. Again, he watched Charlie Conerly play in the championship game as the Giants lost what is referred to as "The Greatest Game Ever Played." After another brief stay in the CFL, Dublinski became an original member of the AFL and the Denver Broncos in 1960, where he finished his career that one season. He was teammates with Torgy Torgeson, Dick Stanfel, Frank Gifford, Bill Jessup, Jack Davis and Gordy Holz.
109. George Pyne, 74, DT, 6-4, 285
The Patriots of the old AFL drafted George out of Olivet in 1965 and he played that one season for them. George was the son of George, who played Tackle for the NFL's Providence Steam Roller in 1931, and he was the father of Jim, who played G for several teams in the 90's.
110. Bill Tucker, 72, RB, 6-2, 220
Tucker was drafted out of Tennessee St. in 1967 by the 49ers and played in Frisco thru 1970. He did his last year, 1971, in Chicago with the Bears. The utility man returned kickoffs and got a few dozen touches each year and ended up with 13 TDs. Bill was teammates with Doug Cunningham, Jimmy Gunn and Doug Buffone of this year's ADT.
111. John Demarie, 70, G, 6-3, 250
The LSU boy was drafted by the Browns in 1967 and had a long, successful career with them, starting on the O-line thru 1975. He spent his last year as an original member of the expansion Seahawks. Over his long career he protected Bill Nelson and Mike Phipps, and blocked for Leroy Kelly as the Browns lost playoff games to Dallas, Baltimore, Minnesota and the Dolphins. He was teammates with Pete Athas and Allen Aldridge of the ADT.
John replaces Sam Adams at Guard.
December
112. Mack Herron, 67, RB, 5-5, 170
"Mini-Mack" was drafted in 1970 by the Falcons but went to the CFL, where he set several records rushing and returning kicks. The Patriots picked him up in 1973, and he promptly came in 2nd to O.J. Simpson in All-Purpose yards. His best year was 1974, when he had 231 carries, 38 catches, and returned 63 punts and kickoffs for a total of 2,444 yards. That total broke Gayle Sayers All-Purpose yards record for the NFL. He continued lighting it up for the Pats in 1975 until he went to the Falcons later in the year, where he returned kicks. Mack called it quits after just 3 years in the NFL with over 5000 yards. He was teammates with Sam Adams and Kevin Hunt of the ADT.
Mack replaces Clyde Duncan as our kickoff return man.
113. Ray Mathews, 86, HB, 6-0, 185
The Clemson Tiger was drafted by the Steelers in 1951. He had a long, successful career there, from 1951-1959. He did his last year, 1960, as an original member of the Dallas Cowboys. Ray made the Pro Bowl twice in the first half of his career playing for the hard luck Steelers in the midst of their record-setting streak for missing the Championship game (42 years since their inception). Over his long career, Ray ran and caught passes for over 5000 yards and score 34 TDs. He was teammates with Gary Glick, Ed Modzelewski, Dick Hensley, Joe O'Malley, Ed Fullerton, Aubry Rozzell and Nick Bolkovac of the ADT.
114. Wayne Robinson, 85, LB, 6-2, 225
The Gopher was drafted by the Eagles in 1952 and played 5 years for them, thru 1956. He made All-Pro a couple of times when the Eags were winning behind Bobby Thomason, but Wayne's teams never made the playoffs and his career ended with a whimper. He was teammates with Bill Roffler, Chuck Bednarik, and Tom Scott of the ADT.
Wayne replaces Chuck Hurston as a Situational Player in our 4 LB sets.
115. Bob Suci, 76, DB, 5-10, 185
The Spartan ended up playing one season for the Oilers in 1962 and the next season for the Patriots. In both years his team lost the AFL Championship game. He had a mess of punt returns and INTs in 1963, and he returned 2 INTs for TDs. Bob was teammates with Tom Goode of the ADT.
116. Mel Holmes, 65, OL, 6-3, 250
Mel was drafted by the Steelers out of North Carolina A&T in 1971. He played that year and 1972 and 1973 for them, mostly on teams that made it into the playoffs, but before their incredible run of Super Bowls.
117. Doug Atkins, 85, DE, 6-9, 280
The big Volunteer was drafted in the 1st round by the Browns in 1953. The HOFer spent 1953 and 1954 in Cleveland, then settled in with the Bears for 12 long years, 1955-1966. He finally was picked up in New Orleans' expansion draft in 1967, becoming an original member of the Saints and playing there until he retired in 1969. Doug was no stranger to championship games, losing as a rookie to Detroit, then beating them the next year with Otto Graham and company. He lost to the Giants in 1957 with the Bears then beat them in 1963. It was in 1957 that he began a remarkable string of 8 straight Pro Bowls, ultimately being named a 1st team All-Pro. The mountain of a man was feared both on and off the field and was one of the first monster DEs in the league. Dave Whitsell told us Doug once shot a mugger in the leg and left him in a stairwell to fend for himself. Nobody knows how many sacks he had but it's safe to say he was in a class with Deacon Jones and Alan Page. He was teammates with Tom Bettis, J.D.Smith, Charlie Sumner, Doug Buffone, John Melleckas, Mike Pyle, and Ron Drzewiecki of the ADT.
Doug starts at DE moving Tom Scott down in the rotation..
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