GRIDLINE's 2012 All-Dead Team
A tribute to the pro football players who have left us this year.
Click on tombstones for details.
View 2011 team
OFFENSE
DEFENSE
SPECIAL TEAMERS & SITUATIONAL PLAYERS
BENCH
January
1. Ray Costict, 56, LB, 6-0, 217
Ray was drafted out of Mississippi State by the Patriots and played 3 years for them from 1977-1979. "Little Backer" was also a Special Teams standout.
Fills open hole at Middle Linebacker.
2. Robert Marques, 76, LB, 6-0, 220
The kid from Boston U. played one year, mostly as a backup, for the New York Titans (later to become the Jets) in 1960.
Fills open hole at Outside Linebacker.
3. Lindoro Lauro, 90, DB, 5-10, 195
Lindy went to Bama, served in the military then graduated from Pitt. By the time he played his one year for the Chicago Cardinals in 1951 he was the oldest rookie ever to play in the NFL at 30.
Fills open hole as a Defensive Back.
4. Mike Current, 66, T, 6-5, 274
Current was drafted out of OSU in 1967 by the Broncos. He played 9 years there, one with TB, and he finished up from 1977-1979 with Miami. He made the Pro Bowl once, in 1969, in his 13 year career. Current killed himself to avoid charges of sexual abuse of a minor.
Fills open hole at Tackle.
5. Gregory Oliver, 62, RB, 6-0, 192
The running back from Trinity was drafted by the Eagles in 1973 and played there two years, mostly as a backup.
Fills open hole at Running Back.
6. John Matlock, 67, C, 6-4, 249
The Hurricane was drafted by the Jets in 1967. He played one year in New York, one with the Bengals, two with Atlanta and finished his career with the Bills in 1972.
Fills open hole at Center.
7. J. R. Boone, 86, RB-DB, 5-8, 162
Drafted out of Tulsa by the Bears in 1948, J.R. had a 6-year career that included 4 in Chitown, one with the 49rs and one with the Packers. He was mostly a backup, but he played with many stars before they were stars, including Joe Perry, Y.A.tittle and Goerge Blanda. He was later the coach of the Fresno Tigers.
Fills open hole at Running Back.
8. Clarence Self, 86, S, 5-8, 181
Drafted out of Wisconsin by the Cards in 1948, Clar had a 6-year career that included 1 in Chitown, two with the Lions and three with the Packers. He actually was a teammate of J.R. Boone in Green Bay.
Fills open hole at Safety.
9. Stan Mitchell, 67, FB, 6-2, 210
The Vols running back was drafted by Miami in 1966, where he was an original member of the Dolphins. He played there for five years from 1966-70.
We'll make Oliver a 3rd down back as a Situational Player and move Mitchell to our starting Fullback spot in front of Boone.
10. Doug Long, 56, DB, 6-0, 189
The kid from Whitworth played with the Seahawks in 1977 and 1978. He played sparingly and returned a few kicks for them. Doug died of cancer.
Fills the open hole at Cornerback.
11. Greg Cook, 65, QB, 6-2, 210
Once a promising prospect from the Bearcats, the Bengals drafted him 5th overall in 1969. He started 13 games that year, throwing 15 TDs, but got busted up. He tried to come back in 1973 but only threw a few passes. Greg died of pnuemonia.
Fills open hole at Quarterback.
12. John Guzic, 75, LB, 6-3, 231
John was an All-American at Pittsburgh before he was drafted by the Rams in 1959. He played for two losing teams there before he played his last year in Houston, where he won the championship of the old AFL in 1961.
Fills open hole at Linebacker.
13. Fernanza Burgess, 51, WR, 6-1, 210
The kid from Morris Brown hooked up with the Dolphins for the 1984 season. That team, with Marino and A. J. Duhe, won the AFC Championship but Burgess played the last few games of his only season with the Jets.
Fills open hole at Wide Receiver.
February
14. Don Panciera, 84, QB-DB, 6-1, 182
Out of Boston College and San Francisco University, Don played in the old AAFL as a QB with the Yankees in 1949. When that league folded, he hooked up the next year with the Detroit Lions as a DB. Finally, he played as a backup QB with the Cards in 1952 to end his NFL career, although he spent some time with the Ottawa Rough Riders.
Fills open hole at Safety.
15. Royal Cathcart, 85, HB, 6-0, 185
Royal, from California-Santa Barbara played in a couple of games for the new 49rs in 1950. His real impact was after his playing days as an official and one of the first replay officials.
16. Freddie Solomon, 59, WR, 5-11, 185
The Dolphins drafted Freddie out of Tampa in 1975. He played 3 seasons there, catching passes from Bob Greise before going to Frisco for 8 more years, catching passes from Joe Montana. Freddie was on the team that is famous for "The Catch" and winning the Super Bowl in 1982. He won another Super Bowl in 1985. Over his career, he caught 371 passes and scored 57 TDs, including 4 on punt returns. A great runner after the catch, Freddie had the vision to choose a lane and bee-line it into the endzone. Jerry Rice, John Taylor and several others claim him as their inspiration, and he still holds the single-season 49rs record for yards per catch. He was a teammate of this year's ADT member Mike Current in Miami. He died of colon and liver cancer.
Fills open hole at Wide Receiver.
17. Allan Brenner, 64, DB, 6-1, 200
Brenner, a Spartan, was drafted by the Giants in 1969 and played 2 seasons in New York before moving on to a long career in the CFL.
18. Arthur Tait, 83, DE, 5-11, 210
The former Miss St. Bulldog joined the New York Yanks in 1951 and stayed with them when they moved to Dallas in 1952 and became the Texans. Art returned 2 fumbles for TDs in New York.
Fills open hole at Defensive End.
19. Eric Harris, 56, CB, 6-4, 200
The All-American at Memphis detoured slightly to the CFL before hooking up with KC in 1980. The tall guy started at CB for 3 years there before finishing with 3 years with the Rams in Los Angeles. At one point with the Chiefs, Eric had 6 games with at least one INT. He finished with 21 INTs overall with 1 TD. He died of a heart attack.
Starts at one Cornerback position. We'll move Doug Long to Nickleback as a Situational player.
20. Don Joyce, 82, DE, 6-3, 253
The Tulane Greenie was drafted by the Chicago Cardinals in 1951 as a Defensive Tackle but his career ddn't take off until the Colts picked him up in '54 and moved him to End. Joyce was generally known as the meanest man in football. Ask ADT teammates Don Panciera and Lindy Lauro. After the Colts won a couple of Championships in '58 and '59, and after he was elected to his only Pro Bowl, he became an original member of the Vikings in 1961 and finished in '62 with the AFL's Denver Broncos.
Fills open hole at Defensive End.
21. Tony Aiello, 90, BB, 5-6, 165
After Youngstown St. Tony caught on with the old Brooklyn Tigers in 1944 but went to the Lions that same year. The blocking back was a member of the NFL when the league was young and careers (and players) were short. Tony did get his hands on the ball a few times in Detroit.
March
22. Alex Webster, 80, HB-FB, 6-3, 225
"Red" played college ball at North Carolina State and went on to a 10 year career for the New York Giants. From 1955-1964 he played in several championships, winning one in 1956 with Conorley, Gifford, Huff and that gang, and losing "The Greatest Game Ever Played" in 1957 to the Colts . Over his career, Alex ran for over 4600 yards and caught passes for 2700 more, scoring 56 TDs. He was the outspoken head coach of the Giants from 69-73.
Alex starts at Halfback, moving J.R. Boone to a Situational spot as our 3rd Down back.
23. John Panelli, 85, LB, 5-11, 200
The Golden Domer played for 2 mythical national championships at South Bend then went on to Detroit in 1949. He played some FB early on, running 50 times and catching a few passes, but he made the most impact at LB. He went to the Cards in 1951 and finished a 5-year career there in 1953. He was on teams with Lindy Lauro, Don Panciera and Clarence Self of this year's ADT.
John starts at LB, moving Bob Marques to a Situational spot as our 4th LB.
24. Roland Lakes, 72, DT, 6-4, 279
Roland was drafted out of Wichita St. in 1961 by the 49rs and had a long 10-year career there on the Defensive line. He played one more year in 1971 with the Giants.
Roland fills the open hole at Defensive Tackle.
25. Wayne Frazier, 73, C, 6-3, 245
The Auburn hero hooked up with the Chargers in 1962. He played a season there, then took two years off and wound up with the Houston Oilers in 1965. Then he went on to play for the Chiefs in 1966 and 67. He holds the distinction of being the first player introduced in a Super Bowl, although it was called The World Championship game back then. Wayne played the second half of the 67 season with Buffalo then called it quits.
Frazier becomes our starting Center. We'll make room for Matlock as Deep Snapper.
26. Lonnie Wright, 67, S, 6-2, 205
The kid from Colorado was a two-sport standout in the pro's, hooking up with both the Denver Bronco's of the AFL and the Denver Nuggets of the ABA. As a Safety with the Broncs, he had 5 INTs in 1967 and 68, his only two years in the league. Lonnie played with Mike Current of this year's ADT.
Wright becomes a starting Safety, moving Don Panciera to a Situational role as a Nickle back.
27. Sisto Averno, 86, LB, 5-11, 235
Sisto went to Muhlenberg College, then the Navy before landing with the 1950 Baltimore Colts. Those Colts were absorbed by the NFL from the AAFC and only existed for one year, so he moved to the New York Yanks in 1951. They became the Dallas Texans, where he played in 1952 in their only year of existence. The Colts reformed for good in 1953 and he rejoined them until he retired from football in 1954. Basically, he was an original member of the Texans, an original member of the Colts twice, and played on the last Yanks, Colts and Texans teams. The jokester left his mean side on the field but he was reported to cuss at the TV when Irsay moved the Colts out of Baltimore. He joins teammates Art Tait and Don Joyce on this year's ADT.
Averno becomes our starting Middle Linebacker, we'll keep Costict as a Situational player for when we go into our four linebacker sets.
28. Jack Ellena, 80, G-LB, 6-1, 225
The Bruin was drafted by the Rams in 1955 and played two years there. He was on the team with Norm Van Brocklin and Crazylegs Hirsch that lost to Otto Graham's Browns in the 55 Championship.
Jack fills the open hole at Guard for us.
29. Dick Young, 81, HB, 5-11, 210
The kid from Tennessee-Chattanooga caught on with the Colts in 1955 and played two years there before being traded to the Steelers, where he played his last year in 1957. Dick scored a couple of TDs in his three seasons. He was a teammate of Don Joyce of this year's ADT.
April
30. Joe Avezzano, 68 C, 6-2, 235
Joe played one season for the Boston Patriots of the old AFL. The former Seminole coached special teams for the Cowboys who were winning championships in the 90's.
31. Blair Kiel, 50, QB, 6-0, 209
The Golden Domer was drafted by and played some for the Bucs in 1984. He took 1985 off and played for the Colts in 86 and 87, then the Pack from 88-90. Blair only had a few starts in his career, completing half of about 200 passes. He did punt the ball 17 times and he did cross the picket lines in 87 to join the replacement players. Blair spent the last few years in trouble with the law, mostly because of drinking, before a heart attack cut his life short.
We can't start Blair at QB but he does fill the open hole at Punter for us on Special Teams.
32. Tommy Runnels, 78, HB, 5-10, 187
After college at North Texas, Tommy was drafted by the Rams but ended up playing in Washington for two years, 1956 and 1957. Between carries, catches and returns, he touched the ball about 170 times, scoring once.
33. Rich Saul, 64, C, 6-3, 241
The former Spartan was drafted by the Rams in 1970 and played for them all 12 years of his career until he retired in 1981. He made All-Pro in each of his last six seasons and played in the Super Bowl in 1980, losing to the Steelers. Rich died of leukemia.
Saul replaces Wayne Frazier at Center. Wayne becomes our Deep Snapper.
34. Ray Easterling, 62, S, 6-0, 195
Drafted out of Richmond in 1972, Ray played all 8 years of his career with the Falcons. He was part of the 'Grits Blitz' defense that held opponents to just 129 points over 14 games in 1977, a record back then. Easterling had 13 INTs in his career. He was suing the league for head trauma when he died of suicide from a gunshot to his head.
Easterling starts at Safety replacing Lionel Wright, who moves down to start in our dime package.
35. Roland Dale, 84, DL, 6-3, 210
The tall lineman from Ole Miss hooked up with the Redskins in 1950 and played one year there, mainly as a backup. He went on to coach Southern Louisiana.
Dale assumes the open Defensive Tackle position.
36. William Neighbors, 72, G, 6-0, 250
After helping Alabama win their 1st mythical championship, Billy was drafted by both the Redskins and Patriots in 1962. He went on to start 4 years for the Pats of the old AFL before becoming an original member of the Miami Dolphins in 1966. He played 4 more years there, blocking for Bob Griese and Larry Csonka and was named All-Pro twice before calling it quits in 1969. Billy also opened holes for Stan Mitchell of this year's ADT.
Neighbors fills the open hole at Guard.
May
37. Junior Seau, 43, LB, 6-3, 250
The Trojan All-American was picked 5th overall in the 1990 draft by the Chargers. "Say OW" had a long career, playing a full 20 years, 13 with the Chargers, 3 as a Dolphin and 4 as a Patriot. He went to 2 Super Bowls, once early in his career with the Chargers and once late in his career with the Patriots, losing both. The Future Hall of Famer was named to the Pro Bowl a record 12 times in a row. He had 18 INTs and returned one fumble for a TD in his tenure. Junior committed suicide by shooting himself in the chest, ala Dave Duerson.
Junior is a major upgrade at LB. We'll keep Guzic around as LB for our 3-4 sets.
38. Stacy Robinson, 50, WR, 5-11, 186
The kid from North Dakota State was drafted in 1985 by the Giants and played all six years of his career for Bill Parcells team. He caught 48 passes and scored 7 TDs. He had his best year in 1986, which culminated in a Giant's Super Bowl victory over Denver. He was on the team in 1990 when they scored another Super Bowl victory when Scott Norwood had his imfamous FG miss. Stacy died of cancer.
Stacy starts at WR in place of Nanza Burgess, who becomes a Situational Player in our multi-receiver sets.
39. Walt Slater, 92, PR-KR, 5-11, 187
The Volunteer was drafted by the Eagles in 1946. He played one year in 1947 for the Pittsburgh Steelers as a return man with 22 kick returns and 28 punt returns. He led the league in returns that one year. He later became a successful high school coach in Florida.
Walt becomes our return man on Special Teams.
40. Bill Walsh, 84, C, 6-2, 230
A former Fighting Irish All-American, Bill was drafted by the Steelers in 1949 and played there until 1954. He was named All-Pro three times. After his playing days he became an assistant coach, most notably under Hank Stram with the Chiefs.
Bill takes over the long snapping from Will Frazier.
41. Dave Mann, 79, P-RB, 6-1, 190
The Beaver was drafted by the Chicago Cards and played in 1955, 56 and 57 there. In addition to his punting duties - he punted 138 times - he gained 1000 yards rushing and receiving. He also returned kicks, threw 13 passes and even kicked a FG. The longtime pro continued his versatile play in Canada until 1970.
Dave replaces Blair Kiel as our Punter.
42. Jesse Whittenton, 78, CB, 6-0, 193
Jesse was drafted out of UTEP in 1956 by the Rams. He played there in 56 and 57, then went to Green Bay in 1958, where he became All-Pro and played on 2 championship teams. He retired after the 1964 season, having intercepted 24 passes in his 9-year career. Jesse played on the same team with ADT member Jack Ellena as a rookie.
Jesse starts at CB, taking Lindy Lauro's spot.
43. Jesse Thomas, 83, DB, 5-10, 180
The Spartan was drsfted by the Yanks in 1951 but didn't play until he got on with the Colts in 1955. He played 3 years in Baltimore, retired for 2 more, then played 1 year as an original member of the L.A. Chargers in 1960 in the AFL. He was teammates with Don Joyce and Dick Young of this year's ADT.
Jesse becomes a Situational Player as a Nickle-back.
44. Mike Voight, 58, RB, 6-0, 214
The North Carolina star was drafted by the Bengals but ended up in Houston, where he played on Bum Phillip's team in 1977. He only had a few carries, but he did return 8 kickoffs when Billy "White Shoes" Johnson wasn't terrorizing the league. Mike's football career was cut short by a 1978 auto accident, his life was cut short by a heart attack.
Even being mentioned with White Shoes makes Mike our kickoff return man, Walt Slater can do punts.
45. Craig Hertwig, 60, T, 6-8, 270
The tall guy from Georgia was drafted by the Lions in 1975 and played 3 years there. "Sky" died of heart failure.
Sky fills the open hole at Tackle.
June
46. Jesse Powell, 65, LB, 6-2, 220
The kid from West Texas was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in 1969 and played there, on and off, until 1973. Jesse didn't start, but he led the punt and kickoff coverage teams. He played in 3 Super Bowls, losing to Dallas and beating the Skins and Vikes. He was on the Miami team that went 17-0. Jesse played with both Stan Mitchell and Billy Neighbors, both starters on the 2012 ADT. Doctors have speculated that cardiac arrest was the cause of death.
We can't start Jesse but he was a gunner before they used the word gunner, so although it's sad to see him go, it's great to have a member of that undefeated Dolphins team as a Special Teamer.
47. Jerry Tubbs, 77, LB, 6-2, 221
The Sooner All-American was a 1st round draft choice of the Chicago Cardinals in 1957. He played a year and a half there, and another year and a half with the 49rs. In 1960, he became an original member of the Dallas Cowboys and played there until 1966 and Lee Roy Jordan came along. He made All-Pro in 1962. After his playing days, Jerry was a longtime assistant with Tom Landry.
Jerry starts at MLB, moving Sisto Averno to a Situational Player in our four LB sets..
48. R. C. Owens, 78, WR, 6-3, 197
The kid from Idaho College was drafted in 1956 by the 49rs and plsyed in Frisco from 57-61. "Alley Oop" played his next 2 years in Baltimore with the Colts, then finished up in 64 with the Giants. He caught over 200 passes for over 3000 yards in his 8-year career, scoring 23 TDs. Known for his leaping ability, in 1962 he blocked a FG ... at the crossbar. In Frisco he was teammates with Roland Lakes and Jerry Tubbs, and he played his last year with Alex Webster in New York, all starters on the 2012 ADT.
Without a TE, we'll switch to a 3 receiver set for now, with R.C. joining Freddie Solomon and Stacy Robinson.
49. Ralph Wenzel, 69, G, 6-2, 250
Originally drafted by the Pack out of San Diego St., the guard ended up playing his first five seasons for the Steelers, from 1966-1970. After sitting out a year, he spent 1972 and 1973 with the Chargers. He never played for a winning team, but he did protect an old Johnny U. and a young Dan Fouts in his last year. Ralph lost his long battle with dementia, his wife carries on his lawsuit against the NFL.
Ralph replaces Jack Ellena as our starter at Guard.
July
50. Ben Davidson, 72, DE, 5-11, 175
Drafted out of Washington by the Giants, Big Ben hooked up with the Packers in 1961 and was on the team as a rookie when it won the NFL title. He played alongside fellow ADT member Jesse Whittenton on that team. He then spent 1962 and 63 with the Redskins before he landed on the Raiders in 1964. Davidson spent the rest of his career there, playing in Super Bowl II (Green Bay 33-14) and finishing 11 seasons with AFL-NFL in 1971. The huge man with the handlebar mustache and a mean streak was best known for the flying spearjob he put on a prone Len Dawson after his bootleg sealed the AFL Championship for the Chiefs in 1970. Ben was an All-Pro 4 times.
Big Ben starts at Defensive End, pairing with Don Joyce, who was just as mean. Art Tait moves to a situational role in the DE rotation.
51. J.D. Garrett, 70, RB, 6-8, 275
The spitfire from Grambling was drafted by both the NFL and AFL in 1964 but decided to go with the Boston Patriots, where he played 4 years before knee injuries ended his career. As a rookie, he carried 56 times, had 8 catches and returned 32 kickoffs. He was used sparingly after that, but he ended up with 48 kick returns.
J.D. becomes our kickoff returner replacing Mike Voight.
52. John Williams, 64, T, 6-3, 256
After a sterling career at Minnesota in college, Williams went on to a sterling career in the NFL. He was drafted by the Colts in 1968, the team that eventually lost to Joe Namath and the Jets in what became known as the Super Bowl. He started on the team in 1970 when it won the Super Bowl against Dallas. In 72 he went to the Rams, where he played 8 more seasons. In his last year he went to a third Super Bowl, losing to the Steelers in 1980. That team also included fellow ADT starter Rich Saul. The 12 year vet died while taking a walk after a recent kidney transplant.
John starts at Tackle replacing Mike Current.
53. King Hill, 75, P-QB, 6-3, 212
The All-American from Rice was selected 1st overall in the 1958 draft by the Chicago Cardinals. He spent 3 years with the Cards, starting at QB in 1959 and making the move to St. Louis. He lost the QB job to John Roach, and then went to Philly in 1961. In a long career as an Eagle, he backed up the likes of Sonny Jurgenson and Norm Snead while maintaining punting chores. In 1968 he began with the Eags but backed up Joe Kapp in Minnesota at the end of the season and in his last year, 1969, he came full circle punting for the Cards. Hill played briefly with ADT starter Jerry Tubbs in Chicago. After football, he was a longtime Offensive Coordinator with the Oilers and Saints.
As he did in Chicago, King replaces Dave "Super" Mann at Punter.
54. Grant Feasel, 52, C, 6-7, 278
The All-Star from Abilene Christian was drafted by the Baltimore Colts in 1983 and made the move with them to Indy in 1984, but was traded to the Vikes in mid-season. In 1987 he hooked up with the Seahawks and spent the last 6 years of his career there. The tall guy played in 47 games between 89-91, and every snap in 1989, hiking mostly to Dave Krieg. In 1992 he busted his leg in training camp and couldn't run, much less play. Of retirement from the league, Grant said, "It's like the 'Wild Kingdom,' where the predator gets one of the gazelles and the herd just keeps on running." The cause of death is unknown.
55. Cleveland Elam, 60, DT, 6-4, 252
The 49rs picked Elam in the 1975 draft out of Tennessee St. He played there 4 years, making All-Pro twice, before he moved to Detroit, where injuries shortened his career in 1979. He was on the 49rs team with ADT starter Freddie Solomon before Joe Montana arrived.
Elam starts at DT. Roland Dale moves to a Situational player in the defensive line rotation.
56. Bucky McElroy, 83, RB, 5-11, 195
Drafted by the Bears out of Southern Miss, Bucky only played part of the 1954 season with the team. His only stat is that he returned a kickoff 21 yards.
57. Booth Lusteg, 73, K, 5-11, 190
After college in Connecticut, Booth went on to play one season each for 4 teams starting in 1966: Buffalo, Miami, Pittsburgh and Green Bay. He even played some in the old WFL. Lusteg scored 200 points. He played alongside Stan Mitchell, William Neighbors and Ralph Wenzel, all starters on this year's ADT.
Booth fills the open hole at Placekicker.
58. Bobby Jack Floyd, 82, FB, 6-0, 200
Bobby Jack was drafted out of TCU by the Packers and played for them in 1952. He was on the Bears team in 1953. He played one season with Clarence Self of this year's ADT.
59. Tom Hennessey, 70, CB, 6-0, 180
Tom was a small school All-American Halfback at Holy Cross then played for the old Boston Patriots of the AFL in 1965 and 1966. In those 2 years he made 8 INTs and returned a dozen punts. He was teammates with J.D. Garrett, Joe Avezzano and Billy Neighbors of this year's ADT.
Hennessey replaces Lonnie Wright as a Situational Player in our nickle and dime packages.
60. Art Malone, 64, HB, 5-11, 211
The Sun devil star was drafted by the Falcons in 1970 and played there for 5 years before finishing his career with 2 years in Philadelphia. Art gained 2457 yards rushing and another 1465 receiving overall. He had his best year 1972, when he gained nearly 1400 yards rushing and receiving. He had 25 TDs in his 7 years. The hardnosed guy who ran bigger than he actually was was inducted into the Sun Devil HOF. He was teammates with ADT members Ray Easterling and John Matlock.
We'll move Alex Webster to FB and start Malone at halfback.
August
61. Ernie Zalejski, 86, HB-DB, 6-0, 185
Ernie was a Golden Domer in college when Pat Leahy's teams went undefeated over 4 seasons. He was drafted by the Bears but ended up in Baltimore because of a trade involving HOFr George Blanda. In his sole season, 1950, he had a couple of INTs, ran a handful of times and returned a few kicks. He played with this year's ADT member Sisto Averno on that short-lived version of the Colts.
62. Fred Matau, 28, OL, 6-2, 305
The USC standout was on the Browns roster in 2006. The youngest member of the ADT died of heart failure.
63. Jimmy Carr, 79, DB, 6-1, 206
The Morris Harvey student went to the Chicago Cards in 1955 to start a long NFL career. He spent two years in Chicago, five with the Eags and wrapped it up with two more years in Washington. He DID play early on in Canada. He made 15 interceptions in his 9 NFL seasons and he won a championship with Philly in 1960. Jimmy went on to a long coaching career as an assistant in the NFL after his playing days. He was on teams with Dave 'Super' Mann, Jerry Tubbs, and King Hill of this years ADT.
Jimmy becomes a Situational player as a Nickle Back, replacing Jesse Thomas.
64. John Kovatch, 92, E, 6-3, 197
The Golden Domer was drafted by the Redskins in 1942 and played on their championship team that year, catching a dozen passes from Sammy Baugh. After taking a few years off, he returned to play for the Skins in 1946 and the Pack in 1947.
65. Bobby Ray Williams, 70, DB-KR, 6-0, 205
Bobby Ray was drafted out of Central Oklahoma by the Cardinals in 1966. He played there two seasons, took off a year, then did three seasons in Detroit. He returned 77 kickoffs in his career, averaging over 25 yards/return and scoring two TDs. He also had three picks.
Bobby Ray replaces J.D. Garrett as our kickoff return man.
66. Steve Van Buren, 91, HB, 6-0, 200
The LSU boy from the Honduras was drafted 5th overall by the Philadelphia Eagles in 1944. The HOFr played his entire career in Philly, making All-Pro in 5 of his 8 seaons there. He rushed for 5680 yards and scored 77 TDs rushing, receiving and returning kicks. Steve led the league in rushing 4 times and in All-purpose yards once. He led the league in Average Kickoff Return yardage twice and he had 5 INTs as a rookie. In a word, he was incredible. "Wham Bam" was on the Eagle's 1948 and 1949 championship teams, both of which featured title game shutouts, and one in heavy snow where Steve had the only score. You can see footage of the great Steve Van Buren here.
Steve starts at Halfback for the 2012 ADT, we'll move Art Malone to a Situational Player as our 3rd Down back.
67. Tony Klimek, 86, E/DB, 5-11, 200
Drafted out of Illinois by the Chicago Cardinals in 1949, Tony played in 1951 and 1952 with them. He had a nose for the football, making 5 INTs and recovering a fumble in those two years. Tony was teammates with Lindy Lorio, Don Joyce and John Panelli of this year's ADT.
September
68. Tom Keating, 70, DT, 6-2, 250
Big Ben Davidson wasn't the only one who sported a mean mustache in the 70's. He and Tom used to ride the countryside together on their choppers when they were teammates on the Raider's defensive line. Tom was drafted out of Michigan by both the Vikes and the Chiefs in 1964, but played 64 and 65 with the Bills before he went on to a six year career with the Raiders, from 66 to 72 (injuries kept him out in 68). He wrapped things up with a year in Pittsburgh and two more in Kansas City. The man who was famous for his four-point stance was named All-Pro in 66 and 67, and played alongside Ben Davidson in what would become known as Super Bowl II.
Keating starts alongside Davidson as he did in Oakland. We'll move Cleveland Elam over and use Roland Lakes as a Situational player in our DT rotation.
69. George Savitsky, 88, T, 6-2, 244
Drafted out of Penn, George played in 1948 and 1949 for the Eagles when they won two championships. He was on the team with HOFr and 2012 ADT member Steve Van Buren.
70. Michael Scarry, 92, C, 6-0, 214
The kid from Waynesburg college made All-pro when he played for the Cleveland Rams in 1944 and 45. He won the 1945 championship there with Bob Waterfield and that gang. In 1946 and 47 he stayed in Cleveland but moved over to the old AAFC, where he became a member of the Browns. The AAFC All-Pro won two more championships in those two years, snapping to Otto Graham. After his playing days he became a longtime assistant coach, most notably with the Dolphins. "Mo" was the last remaining member of the original Cleveland Browns.
Scarry replaces Bill Walsh, whose career followed a similar path, as our deep snapper on special teams.
71. Jim Haluska, 79, QB, 6-0, 190
Jim was the QB for the first Wisconsin team to play in the Rose Bowl. Earlier this year, "Bombo" attended the 60th reunion of that Wisconsin team. He was drafted by and played for the Bears in 1956, backing up George Blanda and Ed Brown. Jim only completed one pass that year as the Bears went on to lose the championship game to Alex Webster and the Giants.
72. Calvin Turner, 52, DE, 6-4, 270
Cal played for the Mountaineers in college and was a replacement player for the Bucs in 1987. He managed 3 sacks in the few games he played. He apparently died of natural causes.
73. Tom McCormick, 82, HB, 5-ii, 185
Tom was drafted out of Pacific College and played with the Rams from 1953-1955. He spent 1956 with the 49rs. Tom played sparingly in his career and gained 400 yards rushing and receiving, and had 20 kick returns for another 250 yards. He was on the 1955 team with Jack Ellena of this year's ADT.
74. Carl Grate, 92, G, 6-0, 215
Carl was drafted out of Georgia and played in 1945 for the Giants back when 200 lb. offensive linemen were possible.
75. Sam Gruneisen, 71, C, 6-1, 242
The Villanova star was drafted by the Chargers of the old AFL in 1962. The longtime pro played in San Diego for 11 years, and one more in Houston. After his playing career he was a college and NFL assistant coach with several teams.
October
76. Alex Karras, 77, DT, 6-2, 248
The Hawkeye defensive tackle was the 10th overall pick of the 1958 draft for the Lions. Alex defined the position as he played for the Lions from 1958-1970. He made All-Pro 4 times, including the year the Lions played in the 1962 championship. Commissioner Pete Rozelle suspended him for 1963 for gambling on that game. Talk about tough luck, they lost the game 3-0 to the Bears. As an actor, he debuted during his career in George Plimpton's memorable documentary 'Paper Lion' and afterwards appeared as Mongo in 'Blazing Saddles', a role for which he became famous for knocking out a horse (actually, the horse was tripped by tieing his legs together). Alex had a brief stint as a color analyst for MNF and was among the huge group sueing the league over concussions at the time of his death. He was teammates with Bobby Ray Williams of the ADT.
Karras replaces Cleveland Elam at DT, Elam moves down in the rotation.
77. Chuck Osborne, 38, DT, 6-2, 290
The Arizona product was drafted in 1996 by the Rams. He played that year for them, and he played in 1998 and '99 for the Raiders. The 38 y.o. was found in his apartment, cause of death not released at this time.
78. Terry Owens, 68, T, 6-0, 260
Terry was drafted out of Jacksonville St. by the Chargers in 1966. The offensive lineman had a long career there, playing for 10 years. Terry played with Sam Gruneisen and starting G Ralph Wenzel of this year's ADT.
Owens replaces Craig Hertwig at Tackle.
79. Barney Hafen, 90, E-DE, 6-2, 195
The kid from Utah hooked up with the Lions for the 1949 and 1950 seasons. The old two-way End was teammates with ADT starters John Panelli and Clarence Self, and Don Panciera.
November
80. Milt Campbell, 78, RB, 6-3, 217
Considered by many to be the greatest athlete New Jersey ever produced, Milt earned the '56 Olympic Gold Medal in the decathelon by beating Rafer Johnson. The then current world record holder in the hurdles was picked up by the Browns in 1957. He was used mostly as a kick returner the one year he played there. He went on to a long career in the CFL.
81. Joe Sutton, 88, DB, 5-11, 180
After a brief stint with the Buffalo Bills of the old AAFC, the Temple product hooked up with the Philadelphia Eagles. He played there three seasons between 1950 and 1952, collecting 13 INTs. He was on the Eagles team with HOFr Steve Van Buren of this year's ADT.
Joe replaces Tom Hennessy in our nickle and dime packages.
82. Dick Felt, 79, DB, 6-1, 185
The BYU product hooked up with the Titans (later to become the Jets) at startup of the AFL in 1960. In 1962 he went to the Patriots where he played 5 more seasons until 1966. The DB was named All-Pro twice and had 18 picks in his career, returning one for a TD. He was on teams with Bob Marques, J.D.Garrett, Tom Hennessey, and Joe Avezzano of this year's ADT.
Dick replaces Joe Sutton in our nickle and dime packages, who had replaced Felt's teammate Hennessey. Payback's a bitch.
83. Ernie Warlick, 80, TE, 6-3, 235
The kid from North Carolina Central spent several years in the CFL before hooking up with Buffalo in 1962. He was named AFL All-Pro in each of his four seasons, including '64 and '65 when he helped the Bills win AFC Championships and catching passes from Jack Kemp. "Big Hoss" caught 90 passes over his short career for over 17 yards a catch. Booth Lusteg and Tom Keating of this year's ADT were teammates of his.
Ernie allows us to use a Tight End formation. Stacy Robinson is moved to a Situational player in our three and four WR sets.
84. Jim Temp, 79, DE, 6-4, 245
In 1955, the Badger was drafted by the Packers and played in Green Bay 4 years from 1957 until 1960. He was teammates with Jesse Whittenton, a starter on the 2012 ADT.
85. Merv Pregulman, 90, G, 6-3, 215
The old Wolverine was drafted by the Packers in 1944 but did a stint in the war before playing for them in 1946. He spent the next two seasons with the Lions, and capped off his career with the short-lived New York Bullogs in 1949. The steel magnate and philanthrapist received the Gerald Ford Award in 2004.
86. Joe Kulbacki, 74, HB, 6-0, 185
The Boilermaker was an original member of the Buffalo Bills of the AFL in 1960, playing one season. He ran 40 times, scoring one TD, had a few catches and returned kicks.
December
87. Jovan Belcher, 25, LB, 6-2, 228
A University of Maine product, Belcher hooked up with Kansas City in 2009. He started as a special teamer then became their starting LB the last few years. He was an active player until he murdered his girlfriend - the mother of his child - and shot himself. He became the first murderer in the NFL since Rae Carruth in 1999.
Belcher starts at LB. Panelli becomes our LB for our 4-3 sets.
88. Grady Allen, 66, LB, 6-3, 225
The father of Raiders head coach Dennis Allen and Texas A&M HOFr joined the Falcons in 1968. He started at LB there for 5 years until 1972. He had a couple of INTs and recovered a few fumbles in his career. He was on teams with Art Malone, Ray Easterling and John Matlock of this year's ADT. Grady died of cardiac arrest.
Grady replaces Belcher at LB. Belcher becomes our LB for our 4-3 sets.
89. John Ward, 64, G, 6-4, 258
John was drafted in the 1st round out of Oklahoma St. by the Vikings. He started on the offensive line there for six years, from 70-75, and spent 1976 in Chicago and Tampa Bay. He was in two Super Bowls with the Vikes, losing both to Miami and Pittsburgh, and was on the losing end of the first Hail Mary, a pass from the Cowboy's Roger Staubach to Drew Pearson. That event launched a nasty bottle-throwing incident in which a Minnesota fan beaned an official. He was a teammate of ADT member Mike Current at Tampa. John died of cancer.
John replaces Ralph Wenzel as a starter at Guard.
90. Jerry Brown, 25, LB, 6-4, 265
Jerry went to Illinois and hooked up with the Colts earlier this year. He was active for at least one game, then was cut and ended up on Dallas' Practice Squad. He died when the speeding car he was riding in flipped over a curb. The driver, Dallas Cowboy Josh Brent, was charged with intoxication manslaughter.
91. Larry Lawrence, 63, QB, 6-1, 208
The kid from Iowa knocked around in the CFL before joining the Raiders in 1974. He played in 1975 with Oakland also, before becoming an original member of the Tampa Bay Bucs in 1976. He was a teammate of ADT member Mike Current at Tampa. Larry died of Edema of the brain.
We'll put the back-up QB on Special Teams as our Holder for FG's.
92. John Small, 66, DT, 6-4, 270
John was the 1st round pick of the Falcons in 1970 out of the Citadel. He played 5 seasons for Atlanta from 1970 to 1974. He was on Atlanta teams with John Matlock, Grady Allen, Ray Easterling and Art Malone of this year's ADT.
93. Bill Donckers, 61, QB, 6-1, 205
The QB from San Diego St. knocked around with a couple of teams before landing with the Cards in 1976 and 77. He only threw 6 passes in those two seasons, backing up Jim Hart, but he completed all of them. Bill lost his battle with lymphoma cancer.
Not too many QBs could say they completed all of their passes in the NFL. We'll make Bill our Holder for FG's.
94. Chuck Gavin, 78, DE, 6-1, 250
An original member of the Denver Broncos in 1960, Chuck played 4 seasons until 1963 when a knee injury ended his football days. He scored a TD from the DE position. Chuck graduated from Tennessee St.
Chuck moves into the defensive line rotation as a Situational Player.
95. Bob Derleth, 90, T-DT, 6-3, 230
Bob was drafted out of Michigan in 1944, went off to war and ended up playing for the Lions in 1947. He played with Merv Pregulman of this year's ADT.
96. Jim Whalen, 69, TE, 6-2, 210
Jim was drafted by both the NFL and AFL out of Boston College and went to the Patriots in 1965. He played there from 1965-1969 then went to Denver in 1970. He finished up his career in Philadelphia during the last half of the 1971 season. Over his career, Jim caught 197 passes averaging 16 yards and scored 20 TDs. Jim was named AFL All-Pro in 1968 when he caught 47 passes. He was teammates with Mike Current, Joe Avezzano, Bill Neighbors, J.D. Garrett, Tom Hennessy, and Dick Felt of this year's ADT.
Jim becomes a Situational Player in our two tight end sets.
97. Larry Morris, 79, RB-LB, 6-2, 226
After an All-American stint at Ga. Tech "The Brahma Bull" was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in 1955. He was a RB there for one year before moving to linebacker in 1956. He played another year in L.A., then went to the Bears in 1957, where he played 9 years, winning the NFL championship in 1963. Larry topped off his long pro career as an original member of the Atanta Falcons. He was on teams with Jack Ellena and Jesse Whittenton of this year's ADT.
Larry replaces Jovan Belcher as our '34' Linebacker.
98. Jeff Winans, 61, G, 6-5, 266
The big lineman from USC was drafted by the Bills and played for them in 1973 and 1975. The journeyman then spent a season with the Saints and two with Tampa Bay in 1977 and 1978. He started the season with the eventual Super Bowl champion Raiders in 1980 before injuries ended his career. He appears to have died from a lifetime of injuries caused on and off the field.
99. Achille Maggioli, 90, DB, 5-11, 178
"Chick" actually debuted with the old Buffalo Bills of the AAFC in 1948. He hooked up with the NFL Lions in 1949 then moved to the short-lived Baltimore Colts in 1950. He picked off 11 passes in those 2 years, including 8 in 1950. Maggioli played with Clarence Self, Barney Hafen, Joe Sutton, John Panelli and Sisto Averno of this year's ADT.
Chick replaces Jimmy Carr as our Dime-back.
100. Chuck Cherundolo, 96, C, 6-1, 215
The Nittany Lion hooked up with the Cleveland Rams of 1937 and played three seasons there. He played the 1940 season with the Eagles, then moved on to the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he played in 1941 and 42 before going off to war. He returned to the Steelers in 1945 and played 4 more years until 1948. Chuck made All-Pro twice before the war. He was a teammate of Walt Slater of this year's ADT. After his playing days he became a longtime assistant coach with four teams. The newest member of the ADT is also the oldest.
Chuck replaces Mo Scarry as our Long Snapper.
101. Larry Bowie, 73, G, 6-2, 245
A warrior of the Sixties, Larry was drafted by the Vikes and played there from 1962 to 1968. He started most of his career, protecting Fran Tarkenton and Joe Kapp.
102. John Diehl, 76, DT, 6-7, 265
The tall Mountaineer was drafted by the Colts in '58 but didn't play for Baltimore until '61. He spent 4 years there before playing his last year for the Raiders in '65. John was on teams with ADT starters R.C. Owens and Ben Davidson.
