GRIDLINE's 2013 All-Dead Team
A tribute to the pro football players who have left us this year.
Click on tombstones for details.
View 2012 team
OFFENSE
DEFENSE
SPECIAL TEAMERS & SITUATIONAL PLAYERS
BENCH
January
1. Jack Davis, 80, G, 6-0, 226
The Terrapin became an original member of the Boston Patriots, starting every game for them in 1960 and making All-AFL in his only year.
Jack fills the open hole at Guard.
2. Angelo Coia, 74, WR, 6-3, 195
The speedster from USC was selected by the Chicago Bears in 1960 and played 4 years there, winning a championship in 1963. He played 2 more seasons in Washington then became an original member of the Atlanta Falcons in 1966, his last year. Angelo caught 121 passes and scored 20 TDs in his career. That's 1 TD in every 6 receptions.
Angelo fills the open hole at Wide Receiver.
3. Jimmy Lesane, 82, RB, 5-10, 176
Drafted out of The Citadel by the Bears, Jimmy returned kicks for them in 1952. In '54, after a year off, he split time with the Bears and the Colts.
Jimmy becomes our Tailback.
4. Bryan Stoltenberg, 40, C, 6-1, 300
Drafted by the Chargers out of Colorado, Bryan played one season with them in 1996. He played for the Giants in '97, but he was with the Panthers for the bulk of his career, from '98 to 2000. Bryan died of injuries sustained in a car accident.
Bryan fills the open hole at Center.
5. Jeff Lewis, 39, QB, 6-2, 211
The Northern Arizona Lumberjack was taken in the 1996 draft by Denver. He was with the team that year and in 1997. He spent his last two years in Carolina backing up Steve Beuerlein in 1999 and 2000. He was 28 of 54 in limited acton over his career. Jeff actually joins former teammate Bryan Stoltenberg on this year's ADT. Cause of Death is unspecified.
Jeff fills the open hole at QB, taking snaps from Stoltenberg as he did at Carolina.
6. Bill Albight, 83, T-DT, 6-1, 235
The Badger was drafted by the Giants in 1951 and played 4 years there at tackle and nose guard. He returned a fumble for a TD during his stint in New York before the CFL got a hold of him.
Bill fills the open hole at Tackle.
7. Val Joe Walker, 83, DB, 6-1, 180
The Mustang star played for Green Bay's secondary from 1953 to 1956 before wrapping it up with Frisco in 1959. He had 17 interceptions over his career playing Defensive Halfback and Safety.
Val fills the open hole at Safety.
8. George Brown, 89, G-DT, 6-2, 225
The old lineman from TCU played with the New York Yankees of the old AAFC before moving across town to the short-lived New York Yankees of the NFL. He played one season there in 1950.
George fills the open hole at Defensive Tackle.
February
9. Walt Sweeney, 71, G, 6-2, 225
The Defensive End from Syracuse was drafted by the Chargers of the old AFL in 1963. He was quickly moved to Guard by Sid Gillman and played in San Diego for 11 years until 1973. In 1974 he became a member of "The Over-The-Hill Gang" for George Allen's Washington Redskins, finishing his career there in 1975. Walt played and won in the AFL Championship as a rookie and he was named an All-Star or All-Pro 9 times throughout his playing days. In the '60s he was caught up in a drug scandal in which the Charger management gave him steroids and other chemicals. The hard-charging, hard-living Sweeney died of pancreatic cancer.
Walt fills the open hole at Guard.
10. Brian Sisley, 49, DE, 6-4, 235
The kid from S Dakota St. was a replacement player for the 1987 Giants. He didn't have any stats in the 3 games he played but he did help keep pro football alive for us. No cause of death was given.
Brian fills the open hole at DE.
11. Walt Easley, 55, FB, 6-2, 225
The Mountaineer wasn't drafted but ended up playing with Frisco in 1981, the year they won their first Super Bowl. The reserve back had 75 carries that season and scored a TD. He came back and played one game for the 49rs in 1982 and finished his playing career in the USFL in 1984. No cause of death was given but it was known the former kidney recipient was having health problems.
Walt fills the open hole at Fullback.
12. John Holt, 53, CB, 5-11, 180
John was drafted out of West Texas A&M by the Bucs in 1981. He had a good career there, returning punts and eventually starting at CB for five years. He then went to the Colts where he did mostly mop up duty from 1986-1989, although he did return a pick for a 80 yard TD. John died after a long illness.
John fills the open hole at Cornerback.
13. Ken Clark, 46, RB, 5-9, 201
An All-Star at Nebraska, Ken was drafted by the Colts in 1990 and played 3 seasons there. His best year was 1991 when he ran 114 times and caught 33 passes as Indy went 1-15. Clark died of a heart attack.
Ken starts in the backfield replacing Jimmy Lesane, who becomes our kick returner.
14. Glynn Gregory, 73, WR-DB, 6-2, 195
An All-Star at SMU, Glynn was drafted by Dallas in 1961. The utility man filled in at receiver or in the secondary as needed. He caught a handfull of passes from Don Meredith and Eddie Lebaron and had an INT before injuries shortened his career in 1962.
Glynn fills the open hole at WR as he did in Dallas.
15. Tony Lorick, 71, FB, 6-1, 220
The ASU college hall-of-famer was picked by the Colts in the 1st round in 1964. He played in Baltimore until 1967, lining up behind Johnny U. and in front of Lenny Moore and losing championship games to Cleveland and Green Bay. In 1968 he went to New Orleans, where he retired in 1969. For his career, the 6-year vet had over 500 carries averaging nearly 4 yards/rush and caught 86 passes. Tony scored 19 TDs in his career.
Lorick becomes our Fullback, sending Walt Easley to the bench.
16. Dick Yelvington, 84, T, 6-2, 230
Drafted by the Giants out of Georgia, the old Bulldog was a fixture at right tackle in New York from 1952 to 1957. He started on the team that won the NFL championship in 1956, blocking for Charlie Conerly, Frank Gifford and Alex Webster and that gang. Before that, He was teammates with left tackle and ADT starter Bill Albright.
Dick fills the open hole at Tackle.
17. Jim Canady, 87, DB-RB, 5-10, 180
Drafted by the Bears out of Texas, Canady played a season and a half starting in 1948. In 1949 he went to the short lived New York Bulldogs (soon to be the Yanks) for the last half of the season. Over his career. Jim had 5 INTs, ran the ball 25 times and caught a handful of passes from Bobby Layne in New York. He also returned 4 punts and 10 kickoffs.
Jim fills the open hole at Cornerback.
18. Roy Stuart, 92, LB-G, 5-8, 190
The kid from Tulsa filled in at LB and G for the Cleveland Rams in 1942 and for the Lions in 1943. He had an INT with Detroit. His NFL career was cut short in WWII as he blocked kamikaze pilots, but he returned to pro football in the AAFC in 1946.
Roy fills the open hole at Linebacker.
19. Claudis James, 69, WR, 6-2, 190
Claudis was drafted out of Jackson St. by the Pack. He was on the Green Bay roster for the second Super Bowl in 1967, but amassed his only stats in 1968 when he caught 8 passes from Bart Starr, 2 for TDs.
Claudis starts in our Three-receiver sets, giving us our first complete offense.
March
20. George Saimes, 71, S, 5-11, 190
George was born in, and died in Canton, Ohio, the birthplace of the NFL and home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The star at Michigan St. hooked up with the Buffalo Bills and played there from 1963 until '69. He won two AFL championships in Buffalo, with Kemp and Gilchrist and those guys, and was in the AFL All-Star game 6 times. He lasted through the AFL-NFL merger and played his last three seasons, 1970-1972, with the Denver Broncos, He had 22 INTs over his career and was named to the alltime All-AFL team, as well as the Bills Wall of Fame.
George fills the open hole at safety.
21. Harlon Hill, 80, E, 6-3, 200
The great receiving End from Florence State Teachers College (now N. Alabama) was drafted by the Bears in 1954. He played there for 8 years until 1961, then split his last year with Pittsburgh and Detroit in '62. Harlon hit the league like a buzzsaw, catching 45 passes for 12 TDs (Yes, that's more than a TD for every 4 passes) and being named Rookie of the Year. The next year he won the Jim Thorpe throphy as the league MVP. In 1956 he played in the NFL championship game, losing to the Giants. He was slowed by an ankle injury in 1958, but over his career Hill caught 233 passes for 40 TDs at over 20 yards a catch. He still holds the Bears record for 4 TDs in a game (Caught from G. Blanda and now shared by M. Ditka) and the Division II college version of the Heisman is named after him. Harlon joins Bears teammates Angelo Coia and Jimmy Lesane on this year's ADT.
Harlon replaces Claudis James as one of our starting receivers. Claudis remains as a Situational Player for our 4-Receiver sets.
22. Jack Wiley, 92, T, 5-11, 200
The kid from Waynesburgh did a stint in the war before joining the Steelers in 1946. He played 5 years for them until 1950, including their loss to the Eagles in the 47 playoffs.
23. Bert Milling, 91, G, 5-10, 185
Diminutive by today's standards, the guard from Richmond played one season for the Eagles in 1942 before running off to war.
24. Dave Leggett, 79, QB, 6-2, 195
After QB'ing OSU to the mythical college championship, Leggett was drafted by and played one year for the Cardinals in 1955. He threw one incomplete pass as a backup in Chicago.
Dave becomes our Holder on FG attempts.
25. Dick Duden*, 88, E-DE, 6-3, 215
The two-way player from Navy played one season for the Giants in 1949, recovering a fumble and catching two passes from Charlie Conerly. He left to serve in the Korean War and later coached for the Navy freshmen team.
Dick fills the hole at Defensive End.
*GRIDLINE thanks LFDVille for this remembrance of Mr. Duden.
April
26. Jack Pardee, 76, LB, 6-2, 225
The great LB from Texas A&M was drafted by the Rams in 1957. He had a long career in L.A. - all the way up until 1970 - then he followed coach George Allen to Washington where he joined the Skins as a member of the "Over the Hill Gang" in 1971 & 72. He made All-Pro in 1963 and in 1965 he missed a season due to melanoma. In his last game he lost to the undefeated Miami Dolphins in his only championship bid. In his 15 years he picked off 22 passes and scored 38 points on interception and fumble returns, and a safety. After his playing days he went on to a successful career as a head coach, coaching in college, the WFL, the USFL, and the NFL where he headed the Oiler team that lost to Buffalo in the greatest comeback ever.
Jack fills the open hole at Linebacker.
27. Greg Mccrary, 61, TE, 6-1, 235
Drafted out of Clark by the Falcons in 1975, Greg became a true NFL journeyman. He played for Atlanta that year, then took off a year before rejoining them in 1977. In 1978 he played for both Washington and San Diego, then stayed with the Chargers until 1980. In 1981 he returned to Washington for his last year as a player. He only caught 22 passes in his career, but he caught 16 from Dan Fouts as a backup to Kellen Winslow in San Diego. Greg died of cardiac arrest.
Greg starts at TE, making Glynn Gregory a Situation Player in our multi-receiver sets.
28. Pat Summerall, 82, K, 6-4, 225
The Razorback was drafted in 1952 by the Detroit Lions. He only suited up a couple of times for the eventual league champions that year, then he went on to play for the Cards from 1953 to 1957. He made 59 kicks in Chicago, then moved to his familiar role as the Giants placekicker in 1958. In New York, Pat kicked the 49 yarder that enabled the Giants to make it to the NFL's "greatest game ever", losing with Charlie Conerly to Johnny U's Colts. His best year was in 1959 when he made 20 FGs for nearly a 70 percent hit ratio, astounding numbers in a time where 50 percent was considered good. The Giants, with Pat, Y.A. Tittle, Frank Gifford and Alex Webster, went on to lose two more championships against Bart Starr's Pack before Summerall called it quits in 1961. Pat did get some playing time at both offensive and defensive end, catching a few passes and intercepting one, and even throwing a pass. In all he made 107 FGs. After his playing days Pat's broadcasting career essentially followed Frank Gifford's broadcasting career, though he arguably surpassed him in the 60's. Labeled the "golden voice" because of his deep, melodious tones, he was a sideline reporter for the first Super Bowl before moving to the booth with another ex-player, Tom Brookshier. Finally, in 1982 he teamed with John Madden in a professional relationship that would span twenty years. Their styles matched perfectly as John's often rambling speeches were interrupted by Pat's succinct, eloquent observations. Although he was a heavy drinker Pat was never caught drunk, but his steady drinking finally caught up with him after a liver transplant bought him a few more years. Pat is reunited with Dave Leggett, who was on the team with him for the Cards in 1955 and is his holder on 2013's ADT.
Pat fills the hole at placekicker.
29. Carey Henley, 76, KR, 5-10, 200
Carey was drafted out of Tennessee-Chatanooga by the AFL's Bills in 1962. He only played in one game against the Dallas Texans (later to become the Kansas City Chiefs) but he returned 5 kickoffs for 90 yards in their 41-21 loss.
Carey joins our Special Teams as the Kick Returner, we'll let Jimmy Lesane handle punts only.
30. Errol Mann, 71, K, 6-0, 200
After a college career in North Dakota, Errol hooked up with the Green Bay Packers in 1968. He only made a few extra-points there, then he moved on to a long and illustrious stint in Detroit, where he was the kicker for the Lions from 1969 to 1976. In the latter part of the '76 season he moved to the eventual Super Bowl champion Oakland Raiders, where he helped them beat the Minnesota Vikings for the title. He played two more seasons there until 1978 and called it quits, but not before leading the league in scoring in 1977. One of the last 'Straight-On' kickers, Mann scored 846 points, including 177 FGs, and he was among the league's top twenty All-Time scorers when he retired.
Errol becomes our new kicker. The great Pat Summerall can announce the games for the ADT.
31. Bob Yates, 74, OL, 6-1, 240
Bob was drafted out of 'Cuse's mythical national college champions by the Giants in 1960, but he opted to become an original member of the AFL's Boston Patriots. He played at all positions along the line for the Pats until 1965. Yates was on the team with the 2013 ADTs first member and starting Guard, Jack Davis.
Bobs versatility makes him an easy choice for our Deep Snapper.
32. Dave Kocourek, 75, TE, 6-5, 240
One of the true pioneers of the old AFL, Dave was drafted out of Wisconsin by the Steelers but opted to become one of the original Chargers in 1960. He made the move with the Chargers from L.A. to San Diego in '61 and went on to make All-Pro 4 times and win the AFL championship with them. In 1966 he became THE original Miami Dolphin, being selected first in Miami's expansion draft. In '67 he went to the Raiders and backed up Billy Cannon. He won the AFL championship that year and went on to lose to Green Bay in Super Bowl II - before it was even called the Super Bowl. Before calling it quits with the Raiders in 1968, the big guy had amassed 249 catches for 24 TDs over his career. He was teammates with Walt Sweeney of this year's ADT. Dave lost his battle with dementia and his family donated his brain to science.
Dave replaces Doug McCrary at Tight End, making Doug a Situation Player in our Two TE sets.
33. Sam Williams, 82, DE, 6-5, 235
Sam was drafted out of Michigan St. by the Rams and played his rookie year there in 1959. He went to the Lions in '60 where he had his best years starting alongside Alex Karras. In 1962 he played on the top ranked defense that lost in a playoff game to the Bears, 3-0. It's the game Karras was suspended for a year for betting on. Sam played in Detroit thru 1965 and became an original member of the Atlanta Falscons in 1966. He played his last season there in 1967. Sam was on teams briefly with Angelo Coia, Harlon Hill and Jack Pardee of the ADT.
Sam replaces our replacement player, Brian Sisley, at Defensive End. Brian remains a Situational Player in our DE rotation.
34. Marion Rushing, 76, LB, 6-2, 220
A great collegiate athlete at Southern Illinois, Marion hooked up with the Chicago Cardinals in 1959. He played in Chicago for one season, then popped up with the Cards again in St. Louis in 1962. In '66 he became an original member of the Falcons, then split time with them and the Houston Oilers in 1968 to end his career. Over his career, Marion had 4 INTs, recovered 9 fumbles and scored a Safety. In Atlanta he was teammates with Angelo Coia and Sam Williams of this year's ADT.
Marion starts at outside LB for us, moving Roy Stuart over to the middle.
35. Walt Dubzinski, 93, C, 5-10, 200
Walt went to college at Boston then went to the Giants in the pros. He played for New York for one season way back in 1943. They lost 28-0 to the Skins in the playoffs a week after having beat them 31-7 in the regular season. He then played for the short-lived Boston Yanks in '44. Walt is the oldest member of the ADT and was one of the oldest members of the NFL when he passed.
Walt was snapping direct to wingback Tuffy Leemans, among others, so we'll make him our Deep Snapper.
36. Joe Francis, 77, QB, 6-1, 195
The Oregon St. Beaver was drafted by the Pack and went on to back up Bart Starr in 1958 and 1959. He completed 20 of 49 passes, with 2 TDs and 3 INTs. He later played a couple of years with Calgary of the CFL.
Joe replaces Dave Leggett as our Holder on FGs.
May
37. Curtis Rouse, 52, G, 6-3, 350
Curtis was drafted out of the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga in 1982 by the Vikes. He played there from the strike shortened 1982 season up until 1986, starting at both Guard and Tackle. At one time he was considered the NFL's largest player. In 1987, he rejoined the league as a replacement player for the San Diego Chargers. No cause of death was given, but the big guy was in ill health ever since a stroke 15 years ago when he tipped the scales at 500 lbs.
Curtis starts for us at Guard, replacing Jack Davis.
38. Fred Julian, 75, S, 5-9, 190
After his college days in Michigan, Fred became an original member of the New York Titans (currently the Jets) of the old AFL. He only played one year there in 1960, but he collected 6 INTs.
Fred becomes a Situational player in our Nickle and Dime defenses.
39. John Alderton, 81, DE, 6-1, 200
The Terrapin was drafted by Pittsburgh in 1953. He played that year for the Steelers before heading off to the Navy. The Steelers only went 6-6 that year but John rubbed elbows with future management stars Jim Finks and Ted Marchibroda as they QB'd the team.
John becomes a Situational player as a member of our DE rotation.
40. George Sauer, 69, WR, 6-2, 190
The Texas Longhorn joined the New York Jets in 1965 to become one of the great receivers in history. From 1965-1970, George was named to 4 Pro Bowls and was All-Pro twice. Nobody ran a down-and-out more precisely, and while the Namath/Maynard combination got much more publcity, Sauer's steady presence was more effective. He caught 8 passes in the 1969 AFL-NFL Championship, which was the first game to informerly be called the Super Bowl, and which became known as the greatest upset in football (Jets beat Colts 16-7). Though he didn't score in that game, his catches robbed the Colts of precious possession time. In all, he caught 309 passes for 28 TDs. George retired at the height of his career to become a poet because he couldn't stand the militaristic regimen of pro football.
We'll start George as one of our three-receivers and keep Tony Lorick as a Situational player for when we need a FB.
41. Jack Butler, 85, RDH, 6-1, 200
The first HOFr to die this year was a St. Bonaventure kid who hooked up with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1951. He was inducted just last year in 2012. Jack played his entire career in Pittsburgh, calling it quits after 9 years when a knee injury downed him in 1959. He played mostly on losing teams, not having a winning season until Bobby Lane joined the franchise in 1958. Still, number 80 had 52 INTs over his career, returning 4 for TDs. He also caught 4 TD passes as he was used as a secret weapon on offense. He was named All-Pro three times. Jack was teammates with John Alderton of this year's ADT.
Jack starts at Cornerback in Jim Canady's place. Jim becomes a Situational player for our Nickle and Dime defenses.
42. Anton Linhart, 70, K, 6-0, 180
The Austrian was brought in by the Saints in 1972. He kicked in a few games that season, but his real success started in 1974 with the Colts, where he had a stellar career, making All-Pro and leading the league in scoring in 1976. He played in Baltimore until 1979, when he split time with the Colts and the Jets. Toni scored 425 points in his career.
43. Chuck Muncie, 60, RB, 6-3, 220
The tall RB from California was drafted by the Saints in 1976. He had four good years there, then was traded to the Chargers in the middle of 1980, where he played until 1984. He had two 1000 yard seasons in his career, and with Dan Fout's Chargers he led the league with 19 TDs in 1981. He played in the memorable Sudden Death playoff game that the Chargers won over Miami, 41-38. The bespectacled RB made All-Pro 3 times over his career, rushed for 6700 yards, caught passes for another 2300 yards and scored 74 TDs. He was teammates with Greg McCrary of this year's ADT in San Deigo and the younger brother of the Colts' Nelson Munsey, whose NFL career ended in '77. Chuck died of a heart attack.
Chuck starts as our lone RB, moving Ken Clark to a Situational role for when we go to our split-T formation.
44. Dave McMillan, 31, LB, 6-3, 262
The DE from Kansas was drafted by the Browns in 2005 and played there for three years. He was used mostly on special teams and served as the backup outside LB before his release after the 2007 season. The youngest member of the ADT was shot during a robbery outside of his home in normally quiet Decatur, Ga. His killer is still on the loose. UPDATE: Antonio Faust, 19, turned himself in and was arrested for murder.
Dave comes in as a Situational player in our 4 LB defenses as well as a Gunner on Special Teams.
45. Harry Schuh, 70, T, 6-3, 260
Al Davis drafted the Memphis All-American 2nd in 1965, right behind Joe Namath and behind the back of the rival NFL. He started 6 years for Oakland in the AFL's formative years, then joined the Rams from 1971-1973, and played his final year in 1974 with the Pack. Along the way, he played in 3 AFL All-Star games and was named first team All-AFL. He protected the likes of Daryl Lamonica, Roman Gabriel and even John Hadl, and he opened holes for Hewritt Dixon, Pete Banaszak and Jim Bertelson. He played in some of the most memorable games in NFL history including the 1967 World Championship game, later to be known as Super Bowl II, which they lost to Green Bay. He also played in the infamous Heidi Bowl, which the Raiders won in a furious comeback that NBC cut away from, and the 1970 AFL Championship game, where Big Ben Davidson speared a prone Lenny Dawson in frustration. Harry played alongside Dave Kocourek in Oakland.
Harry takes over for Bill Albright at starting Tackle and Bill takes the open position at Defensive Tackle.
46. Dick Evey, 72, DL, 6-4, 250
The Volunteer was drafted in 1964 by the Chicago Bears. He played a full 6 years there, filling in and often starting at all positions on the D-line. In 1970 he played for the Rams, then finished his career in Detroit in 1971. The big guy played with Jack Pardee and with Errol Mann of this year's ADT.
Dick replaces George Brown at Defensive Tackle. George moves to a Situational Player in our Defensive Line rotation
47. Dave Costa, 71, DT, 6-2, 250
It was another scoop for Al Davis and the AFL when they stole Costa from the NFL in the 1963 draft. The kid from Utah was named Rookie of the Year and spent three seasons in Oakland. After spending 1966 in Buffalo, he went on to the Denver Broncos, where he made All-Pro 3 times in his five seasons there, between 1967 and 1971. He then spent two seasons in San Diego and finished his career back in Buffalo in 1974. In his 12 years playing, Dave went about as far as a DT can go without being named to the HOF. He was on teams with fellow ADT members Harry Schuh, Walt Sweeney, and George Saimes.
Dave replaces Bill Albright at Defensive Tackle. Bill moves to a Situational Player in our Defensive Line rotation
48. Pat Shea, 73, G, 6-1, 250
The USC Trojan hooked up with San Diego in 1962. Although he only played 4 years, from 1962-1965, he played in three AFL Championships, winning one in 1963. He was teammates with Walt Sweeney and Dave Kocuorek of this year's ADT.
Pat rejoins his former teammates on the OL at starting Guard on the ADT.
49. Cullen Finnerty, 30, QB, 6-2, 220
Cullen was a whiz kid for Division II's Grand Valley State as he led them to three national titles. The rare Raven's death appears on the ADT after Finnerty made the reserve team as a rookie and was promoted to the active roster for two NFL games in 2007. His body was found near his family's lake cabin in Michigan. Authorities are investigating. Update: The cause of death was finally released in August. Officially, it was pneumonia caused by inhaling his vomit. Apparently, Cullen had a paranoid experience brought on by Oxycodone which he was taking for back injuries, and CTE sustained from his football career.
50. Bill Austin, 84, G, 6-1, 220
The old Guard was drafted out of Oregon by the New York Giants and played there in 1949 and 1950. He took a few years off, then rejoined the team from 1953 to 1957, making All-Pro in 1954. He won the NFL championship in 1956, protecting Charlie Conerly and opening holes for Frank Gifford and Alex Webster and those guys. After his playing days, the designer of Green Bay's vaunted Sweep attack became Head Coach at Pittsburgh and later was the interim coach at Washington when Vince Lombardi hung it up. Bill was on the team with Dick Yelvington, Bill Albright, and Dick Duden of the 2013 ADT.
Bill replaces Pat Shea as starter at Guard.
51. Mike LaHood, 68, G, 6-3, 250
The kid from Wyoming was drafted by the L.A. Rams in 1969. He played in L.A. for that season, spent 1970 with the Cardinals, and returned to the Rams to play in 1971 and 1972. The sometimes starter did have a pretty good kickoff return average, lumbering 25 yards on 1 return. Mike died of cancer. He rejoins Jack Pardee and Harry Schuh on the ADT.
June
52. Ron Smith, 70, KR-DB, 6-1, 195
The Wisconsin Badger was undrafted but hooked up with the Bears in 1965. His career started slow there, returning only one punt and one kickoff. In 1966 he became an original member of the Atlanta Falcons, returning 113 kicks and punts for over 2000 yards in his two seasons there. He did more of the same throughout his long career where he spent 2 seasons with the Rams, and returned for 3 more years with the Bears, ending in 1972 when he made All-Pro. The journeyman wrapped it up with seasons in San Diego and Oakland, where he was on the team that lost to the eventual champion Pittsburg Steelers, 24-13, in the AFC Conference Championship game. In all, the 11-year vet had 275 kickoff returns for 7000 yards and another 235 punt returns for 1800 more yards, scoring 6 TDs along the way. The longtime pro also filled in in the secondary, where he had 13 INTs and recovered a whopping 24 fumbles. Ron even caught 11 passes and ran 8 times on offense. The well-traveled return man was on teams with Angelo Coia, Walt Sweeney, Jack Pardee, Marion Rushing, Sam Williams, Dick Evey, Dave Costa, and Mike LaHood.
Ron becomes our kickoff and punt returner, replacing both Carey Henley and Jimmy Lesane.
53. David Jones, 74, DE, 6-5, 275
Hall of Famer 'Deacon' Jones came to the Rams as an unheralded late round draft pick from Mississippi Valley State (the same college as Jerry Rice). He played with the Rams for 11 years, from 1961 to 1971. He then played 2 seasons in San Diego before wrapping it up with George Allen's 'Over the Hill Gang' in 1974. In L.A., he was a member of the Fearsome Foursome featuring Merlin Olsen, Lamar Lundy and Rosey Grier. He was on some great teams with the FF, Roman Gabriel, Jack Snow and Jack Pardee as the 70's came, but the Rams couldn't get past the Pack or the Vikes, and one time they went 10-3-1 and missed the playoffs. Though they didn't keep the stats in that era, many football historians credit him with over 170 sacks, a term he coined himself. The 'Secretary of Defense' also had a couple of INTs, 15 fumble recoveries and a couple of safeties over his career. The man who perfected the head slap - a legal move at the time - was named to 8 Pro Bowls, one time after being the first lineman to record over 100 tackles. He was also selected to be on the NFL's official 75th Anniversary team. Deacon aspired to an acting career, appearing on several TV shows as a guest star ("Bewitched"), a few movies ("Black Gunn"), and one singing gig on 'Shindig' with the rest of the Fearsome Foursome. Deacon rejoins teammates Walt Sweeney, Jack Pardee, Harry Schuh, Dick Evey, Dave Costa, Mike LaHood, and Ron Smith on the 2013 ADT.
Deacon replaces Dick Duden as starting DE, Dick moves into the defensive line rotation.
54. Frank Dempsey, 88, OL-DL, 6-3, 235
The big guy was drafted out of Florida and filled in along both sides of the line for the Bears from 1950-1953. He was on the team with Jimmy Lesane of this year's ADT.
55. Tom Brown, 92, E, 6-2, 216
The old timer from William & Mary played one season in 1942 for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He caught a handful of passes, some from HOFr Bill Dudley, and scored a TD.
56. Will Wynn, 64, DE, 6-4, 245
The kid from Tennessee State was drafted by the Eagles and played there from 1973-1976. He hooked up briefly with Washington in 1977. Will didn't exactly have a spectacular career but he was fast for a lineman. How fast? He once returned a fumble 87 yards for a TD. Will died of heart failure.
Will becomes a Situational player in the defensive line rotation.
57. Joe Tereshinski, 89, DE, 6-2, 215
The Georgia Bulldog was drafted by the Redskins and played his entire career there from 1947-1954. Early on, as a two-way player, Joe caught 18 passes from Sammy Baugh. He played on some pretty mediocre teams throughout his career, having only one winning season.
58. Dave Jennings, 61, P, 6-4, 205
The great punter was undrafted but hooked up with the Giants in 1974. The tall guy didn't punt in college but played 11 years with the Giants, then 3 more with the Jets from 1985-1987. By the time the 14 year veteran called it quits he made 4 Pro Bowls and had punted over 1100 times for an average of over 41 yards. His best years were smack dab in the middle of his career, in 1979 and 1980, when he made All-Pro twice for the Giants. After his career, he became the longtime, outspoken voice of those same two teams, calling the games for twenty year's. Dave had a long, tough battle with Parkinson's disease.
Dave becomes our Punter on Special Teams.
59. Jim Barton, 79, C, 6-5, 250
The Center from Marshall wasn't drafted but he hooked up with and became an original member of the old Dallas Texans (later to become the Kansas City Chiefs). He started there for one season in 1960 then played his last two with the Denver Broncos.
60. Jim Hudson, 70, S, 6-2, 210
The Longhorn QB defeated Joe Namath's Alabama team to win the mythical national championship, then joined him with the Jets as a safety in 1965. He played in New York thru 1970. He was named All-Pro in 1968 and had 14 picks throughout his career, but none bigger than his pick in the World Championship game, which was later to be dubbed Super Bowl III. The Jets upset the Colts as a 16 point underdog, and Jim's pick in that game underscored the Colts frustrations. He was on that team with fellow ADT member George Sauer, who had 8 catches of his own that day.
Jim takes over as our starting Safety, Val Joe walker shifts to a situational role in our nickle and dime formations.
61. Don Brown, 75, HB, 6-1, 200
The Cougar from Houston became an original member of the Houston Oilers in 1960. Though the team won the initial AFL championship he only played in 3 games, perhaps because of a vicious shot delivered to him by the Colts Bill Pellington in the College All-Star game months before.
July
62. Ernie Richardson, 62, TE, 6-5, 225
The linebacker from Jackson State got on with the Browns in 1974 and played TE that one season. As backup to Milt Morin, Ernie didn't amass any stats. He succumbed to cancer.
63. Ray Coates, 89, HB, 6-1, 195
The LSU boy was drafted by the Giants and played with them in 1948 and 1949. He joined a stable of RBs behind Charlie Conerly and ran for a couple of hundred yards, caught a few passes and scored a handful of TDs. Rayford was on the 1949 Giant team with Dick Duden and Bill Austin of this year's ADT.
64. Billy Cross, 84, HB, 5-6, 151
The Canadian high school star went to West Texas A&M where he set rushing records there that weren't broken until Mercury Morris showed up. The small running back was drafted late by the Cardinals in 1951. He shared the backfield at times with Charlie Trippi and Ollie Matson. The scatback had over 800 yards rushing and another 800 receiving in his 3 seasons in Chicago, where he also fielded kicks, including 34 punt returns. He scored 12 TDs. Billy played one year with Pat Summerall of the ADT early in his career. A life-sized, such as it is, statue of Cross honors him at Canadian High School.
Billy takes over punt return duties. We'll let Ron Smith concentrate on kickoff returns, only.
65. Ted Burgmeier, 57, DB, 5-10, 185
The Golden Domer won the mythical college championship in 1977 and was drafted by the Dolphins, but ended up playing his only season in Kansas City in 1978. The DB was a sometimes starter and returned a few punts for the 4-12 Chiefs. Ted died from complications of Hodgkin's and heart disease.
66. Hamilton Nichols, 88, G, 5-11, 210
The Rice Owl was drafted by the Chicago Cardinals and played there from 1947-1949. He then spent 1951, his last year, with the Pack. As a rookie, 'Nick' won the NFL championship. The next year, the Cards lost in the championship game to Steve Van Buren and the Eagles, 7-0, in the famous "snow" game.
67. Earl Gros, 72, FB, 6-3, 220
The LSU Tiger was drafted in the 1st round by the Packers and promptly won the NFL championship in 1962 as he backed up Jimmy Taylor. In 1964, he went to the Eagles and was given a chance to start. He responded with over 1000 yards rushing, receiving and returning kickoffs. He spent 2 more seasons in Philly, then spent another 3 seasons as a Steeler before ending his career with a brief appearance with the Saints in 1970. Over his 9 seasons, he ran for 3157 yards and caught passes for another 1255 while scoring 38 TDs.
Earl starts at Fullback as we move Angel Coia to a Situation Player in our multi-receiver sets.
68. Bob Oliver, 66, DE, 6-3, 250
Bob was drafted late by the Browns in 1969. He got some playing time on a pretty good team featuring Bill Nelson, Leroy Kelly, and Paul Warfield.
69. Geno Mazzanti, 84, HB, 5-11, 190
The Razorback was drafted late by the Baltimore Colts and played for them in 1950, that team's one year in the NFL. The Colts had been reorganized from an AAFC team and finished 1-11, then folded. Geno did manage to plow ahead for a TD in his brief appearance in the league. His son played for the Eagles in the 60's.
70. Rick Norton, 69, QB, 5-11, 190
The Kentucky kid was a 1st round pick of the expansion Miami Dolphins in 1966. He was a member of a stable of original Dolphins that played QB their first year, including the punter. Rick was on the team through the 1969 season, then finished up as insurance for Bart Starr with the Packers in 1970. In all, Rick started 11 games, appeared in 20 more, and threw 382 passes with 7 TDs. He died of heart disease.
Rick takes over as starting QB for Jeff Lewis, who becomes our holder on the FG unit.
71. Sherwin Gandee, 84, DE, 6-1, 215
After starting his career with the NFL's short-lived NFL Dallas Texans in 1952, the former Buckeye went on to the Detroit Lions after a few games. Sonny's Lions won the championship that year and the next with Bobby Lane, then he went on to play 3 more years there before retiring in 1956. Sonny actually replaced Pat Sumerrall in Detroit because of an injury, but we can't call them teammates because Pat was out for the year.
Sonny replaces Will Wynn as a Situational Player in the DE rotation.
72. Bobby Crespino, 75, TE, 6-5, 225
The lanky receiver from Ole Miss' championship teams of the late 50's was drafted in the 1st round by the Browns in 1961. He played Tight End there for three years, then went to the Giants in 1964, where he played 5 more years. Bobby never was anybody's all-star, but he did catch passes from some of the greats of the game, from Y.A. Tittle to Fran Tarkenton, and blocked for the great Jim Brown and Frank Gifford. Over his 9-year career, Crespino caught 58 passes for 9 TDs.
Bobby becomes a Situational Player as our 2nd TE.
73. Harry Smith, 94, T, 5-11, 215
The old timer from USC only played one season for the Lions in 1940 but it was enough to be named to the Pro Bowl. Harry became a longtime Asst. Coach at Mizzou.
August
74. Wilford White, 84, PR, 5-9, 170
The Sun Devil All-American and father of the Dallas Cowboy's Danny White was drafted by the Bears. He only played in 1951 abd 1952, and never gained the success he had in college before injuries forced him from the game. He was used mostly as a punt returner, returning 37 in his 2 years. Jimmy Lesane and Frank Dempsey of the ADT were his teammates with the Bears.
Wilford replaces Billy Cross as our punt returner.
75. Art Donovan, 88, DT, 6-2, 270
The big guy from Notre Dame and Boston College was drafted in 1947 by the Giants, but ran off to war. In 1950, he began his career with the Baltimore Colts, a team that had been absorbed from the old AAFC. That team didn't take, having died after one season, so Art went to the New York Yankees in 1951, another team that became defunct. In keeping with the theme, Donovan joined the short-lived Dallas Texans in 1952. in 1953, he finally found a permanent home with the second edition of the Baltimore Colts. That team saw Art make the Pro Bowl 5 consecutive years and play on two championship teams. He played in what is known as "The Greatest Game Ever Played" in 1958. He retired from the NFL with the Colts in 1961. Art Donovan was a dominant Defensive Tackle but his major contribution to the NFL came after his playing career. Art was basically a professional NFL retiree, creating a comic personna and combining it with great storytelling skills. He appeared on several TV talk shows and commercials, and he basically carried NFL Films in the 60's and 70's. He promoted the game so well he could've been inducted to the HOF solely on his post-career contributions. Art was teammates with Jimmy Lesane, Sonny Gandee and Gino Mazzanti of the ADT.
Donovan joins fellow HOFr Deacon Jones on the line. Dick Evey drops into the DT rotation.
76. Hezekiah Braxton, 77, FB, 6-2, 275
The player from Virginia Union played with the Chargers of the old AFL in 1962 and briefly with the Bills in 1963. The backup fullback saw little action but did score a TD. He was teammates with Dave Kocourek and George Saimes of the ADT.
77. Jack Del Bello, 85, QB, 6-1, 190
The old Hurricane was an original member of the Baltimore Colts - the version that caught on - in 1953. He threw 61 passes as a backup to Fred Enke in his only year. He was teammates with the great Art Donovan of this year's ADT.
78. Burt Delavan, 83, T, 6-2, 236
Burt, the old Pacific Tiger, was drafted by the Rams in 1952 but didn't play until he hooked up with the Chicago Cardinals in 1955. He played for two seasons there, calling it quits in 1956. Burt was on the team with Dave Leggett and Pat Summerall of this year's ADT.
September
79. Willie Frazier, 71, TE, 6-4, 245
The 3-time Pro Bowler from Arkansas Pine-bluff went on to play for the Oilers in 1964, and in 1965 where he made All-Pro. From 1966-1970 he played for the Chargers, then briefly rejoined the Oilers for a few games in 1971, before joining the Chiefs for the tail end of 1971 and all of 1972. He again returned briefly in 1975 to the Oilers. Although Willie didn't win any championship games, he was in the epic, 6-quarter OT AFC Championship game that the Chiefs lost to the Dolphins. In his career, he scored 36 TDs on 209 rceptions, and he caught passes from George Blanda, John Hadl, Len Dawson and even Dan Pastorini. He was relegated to a wheelchair the last few years of his life but he never blamed or quit loving the game. Willie died september 5th, so we suspect he was awaiting the kickoff of this year's season opener. He was teammates in San Diego with Walt Sweeney of the ADT.
Willie joins the ADT as a Situational Player, our 2nd TE, replacing Bobby Crespino.
80. Frank Tripucka, 85, QB, 6-2, 190
The 9th overall draft pick from Notre Dame started his pro career at Detroit in 1949, where he was a sometime starter. He spent one season with the Lions, then played backup QB for the Chicago Cardinals in 1950 and 1951. In 1952 he played for both the Cards and the short-lived Dallas Texans. Frank then spent the rest of the 50's in the CFL. In 1960, Frank was called in to the fledgling AFL and the Denver Broncos, ostensibly as an assistant coach, but ended up as their original QB. He continued as their QB from 1960-1963, when he ended his playing days. The father of former NBA star Kelly Tripucka never played on a winning team but he did make the Pro Bowl in 1962. In his AFL-NFL career, he passed for over 10000 yards and 69 TDs. The old QB's number 18 was retired by Denver but came out, with Frank's permission, when Peyton Manning arrived. A true pioneer of the game, Tripucka was teammates with Billy Cross, Jim Barton, and HOFr Art Donovan of this year's ADT.
Frank becomes our starting QB, sending Rick Norton to a situational role as our Holder on FGs.
81. Rick Casares, 82, FB, 6-3, 230
The big, bruising FB from Florida was drafted by the Bears in 1955. He had a huge career there, making the Pro Bowl his first 5 seasons and being named All-Pro in 1956, when he was one of a very few in history to rush for over a thousand yards in a 12 game season. He did ten years in Chicago, winning the championship with them in 1963. He played his last two years in Washington with the Redskins in 1965, and as an original member of the Dolphins in 1966. In his 12 years, Rick ran for 5797 yards, caught passes for 1588 yards and scored 60 TDs. He blocked for and caught passes from Ed "All Around" Brown, George Blanda, Billy Wade and Sonny Jurgenson, among others. Casares was the Bears all-time leading rusher at Chicago, ahead of Bronco Nagurski, and still is third behind Walter Payton and Neil Anderson. He was teammates with Angelo Coia, Harlon Hill, Dick Evey, Dave Kokourek, and Rick Norton of this year's ADT.
Rick becomes the new starting FB in place of Earl Gros.
82. Tom Higgins, 83, OL-DL, 6-2, 230
The old Tarheel was drafted by the Cardinals in 1953. The two-way player did one season there, then moved to Philly, where he played with the Eagles for two seasons in 1954 and 1955. He was teammates with Pat Sumerall of the ADT in Chicago.
83. Scott Adams, 46, G, 6-5, 300
The journeyman from Georgia hooked up with the Vikings in 1992 and played there two seasons, sometimes starting. He then stopped in New Orleans to play for the Saints in 1994, then the Bears in 1995, the Bucs in 1996 and the Falcons in 1997. No cause of death was given.
84. Allan Ellis, 62, CB, 5-11, 185
The Bruin was drafted by Chicago in 1973 and had a long career there, playing for the Bears until 1980, then spending the 1981 season in San Diego with the Chargers. In 1977, he had 6 picks and made the Pro Bowl. Over his career, Allan had 22 picks with one returned for a TD. He played his last year with Chuck Muncie of the ADT. Ellis died of a sudden heart attack.
Ellis starts at CB opposite of HOFr Jack Butler, sending John Holt to a situational role as a Nicle-back.
85. Francis Peay, 69, T, 6-5, 250
Peay was drafted by the Giants in 1966. He played his first two years there, then went to the Packers, where he did his longest stint from 1968 to 1972. He wrapped up his career with two more seasons with the Chiefs. Francis was teammates with Bobby Crespino, Errol Mann, Rick Norton, and Claudis James of the ADT. After his playing days, he became the longtime coach of the Northwestern Wildcats.
One Giant replaces another as Peay takes over for Dick Yelvington.
86. John Reger, 82, LB, 6-0, 225
The kid from Pittsburgh wasn't drafted but hooked up with the Steelers in 1955. he started 9 years there, through 1963, then joined the Redskins from 1964-1967. Over his 12-year career, he had 15 INTs from his LB spot, and an amazing 20 fumble recoveries. He was named to the Pro Bowl three times in Pittsburgh. John was teammates with Rick Casares and HOFr Jack Butler of the ADT.
John starts at OLB on the ADT, ultimately making Roy Stuart a situational player in our 4 LB sets.
87. Paul Oliver, 29, DB, 6-0, 210
The Georgia Bulldog got on with San Diego in 2008, sometimes starting with them. He continued to see limited action thru 2011 with the Chargers. Paul had a handful of picks and recovered a fumble in his career. He committed suicide by shooting himself in front of his family.
88. L.C. Greenwood, 67, DE, 6-6, 250
The big guy from the small college of Arkansas Pine-Bluff was drafted by the Steelers in 1969. He started every year of his career for them, up until 1981. A member of the famous "Steel Curtain" defense, he won 4 Super Bowls, was a 6 time Pro Bowler and twice an All-Pro. During one of his Super Bowls he sacked Roger Staubach 4 times. The great Defensive End has been a HOF finalist several times. L.C. was a teammate of Earl Gros of the ADT in his rookie year. He
died of kidney failure
L.C. starts at DE on the ADT, making Sam Williams a situational player in our Defensive Line rotation.
89. Ron Duncan, 70, TE, 6-6, 255
The Wittenberg Uiversity graduate hooked up with the Cleveland Browns as a backup TE in 1967 for one season only. After his playing days, Ron became a great benefactor of amateur sports, receiving the Distinguished American Award in 2000.
October
90. Gordon Polofsky, 82, LB, 6-1, 220
The Volunteer was a member of the mythical NCAA championship team at Tennessee and was drafted in 1952. He started 3 seasons for the Chicago Cardinals. He was teammates with Pat Summerall, Billy Cross, Tom Higgins and Frank Tripuka of this year's ADT.
Gordon joins the ADT as a situational player as the 4th LB in our 3-4 sets.
91. Darris McCord, 80, DE, 6-4, 250
Darris was another member of the great Tennessee teams of the early 50's. He was drafted in 1955 by the Lions and started for them all the way through 1967 at DE. During that 13 year span, Darris only missed 2 games. On 1957 he was on the NFL championship team (Lions 59 Browns 14) and was named All-Pro. Over his career, Darris was teammates with Sam Williams and Sherwin Gandee of this year's ADT.
92. Fred Cole, 76, G, 6-0, 230
The Terrapin was originally drafted by the Bears but ended up in San Diego as an original member of the Chargers in 1960. His team lost the first AFL championship game to the Houston Oilers in the one year he played. That team also featured Dave Kokourek of this year's ADT.
93. John Sokolosky, 47, C, 6-2, 240
The kid from little Wayne St. college hooked up with the Lions in 1978. He played one season under Monte Clark. The cause of death was not given.
94. Reggie Rogers, 49, DE, 6-6, 280
The All-American from Washington was drafted 7th overall by the Detroit Lions in 1987. He immediately started that year and the next, then in the middle of his second season he got in a drunken auto accident that killed three teenagers. He went to prison for year, then tried to comeback with the Bills in 1991 and the Bucs in 1992, but he only played in a few games over that span. After football, the troubled Rogers was arrested several times for DUI and once for domestic violence. The 49 y/o was found dead on his front porch, apparently from a heart attack.
95. Chester Lagod, 85, G, 6-2, 220
The kid from little Tenn-Chattanooga college was drafted by the Giants and played one season for them in 1951. He was on the team with Bill Albrite of this year's ADT.
November
96. Clarence Parker, 101, QB/DB, 5-10, 180
Clarence got his nickname at Duke by a sports reporter who wrote, "Whether they need five, ten or fifteen yards, Clarence Parker is Duke's Ace in the hole." The NFL HOFr and College HOFr was drafted in 1937. Ace played 5 years with the Brooklyn Dodgers then he joined the war effort in 1941. Before he left, he made All-Pro twice and was named league MVP in 1940. Ace rarely left the field during the game, playing QB and RB, and DB on defense. On special teams he returned kicks and punts, and even punted and kicked field goals. Over his career, he threw 30 TD passes and ran for 16 more. He caught 3 TD passes, returned a punt for a TD and returned 2 INTs for TDs. The year he made MVP, he threw 10 touchdown passes, ran and caught passes for 4 TDs, and shared the league lead with 6 INTs. After a stint with the Navy, Ace returned in 1945 to the team, which had become the Boston Yanks. then spent 1946 in the AAFC before calling it quits. His NFL career may not have been if he had stuck with baseball, where he is one of only a handful of MLB players to hit a home run in his first at bat. He was in the NFL's first ever televised game in 1939. After his playing days, he coached Duke's baseball and football teams and later became an NFL scout. At 101, Ace is not only the oldest member of the ADT, but at the time of his death he was the oldest man ever to have played pro football. You can see Ace return a punt for a TD in college here.
Ace becomes the ADT's starting QB, replacing the great Frank Tripucka, who now becomes the holder for Errol Mann.
97. Bobby Thomason, 85, QB, 6-1, 200
The kid from VMI began his career with the Rams in 1949, sat out a year, backed up Tobin Rote of the Packers in 1951, then went to Philadelphia in 1952 where his career took off. He started 6 seasons with the Eagles, until 1957, and made the Pro Bowl 3 times. He completed half his passes in over 1300 attempts with 60 TDs for his career. In 1951 he led the league in completion percentage, and in 1953 he led the league in TD passes. He was teammates with Hamilton Nichols and Tom Higgins of the 2013 ADT.
Bobby becomes our backup QB and Holder for Errol Mann.
98. Todd Christensen, 57, TE, 6-3, 230
The BYU athlete was chosen by the Cows in 1978 but hooked up with two teams, the Giants, and then the Raiders in 1979, where his career took off. All the way through 1988 with the Raiders, Todd caught 461 passes for 41 TDs at nearly 13 yards per catch. He played in, and won, two Super Bowls, and was named to the Pro Bowl 5 times. He was named All-Pro twice, 1983 and 1986, when he led the league in receptions both years. Todd was one of the last of the big TEs who could block as well as catch, and he could find weak spots in the defense for his option routes. After football he became a successful broadcast analyst. The always reliable TE was teammates briefly with Dave Jennings in New York. Todd died of complications from liver surgery.
Christensen becomes the starter at TE, moving the great Dave Kocourek to a Situational player in our 2 TE sets.
99. Mike McCormack, 83, T, 6-4, 250
The Kansas Jayhawk was drafted in 1951 by the lowly New York Yankees and promptly was chosen to the Pro Bowl in his only year there. Mike ran off to war for the next couple of years, then popped up again in the NFL with the Cleveland Browns in 1954. He played on the defensive line of scrimmage that season, then resumed his All-Pro ways in 1955, being named to 5 more Pro Bowls at Right Tackle with the Browns while blocking for the likes of Otto Graham and Jim Brown. McCormack finally hung it up in 1962 after winning 2 championships and playing in 2 more. Paul Brown called him, "the finest offensive lineman I've ever coached" when Mike was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1984. After his playing days he was head coach for the Eagles, Colts and Seahawks, and became a great NFL administrator after that. He was teammates with fellow HOFr Art Donovan with the Yankees, and Bobby Crespino, and he coached Will Wynn and Toni Linhart, all of this year's ADT.
Mike starts at Right Tackle on the ADT, replacing Francis Peay.
100. Frank Chamberlin, 35, LB, 6-1, 235
The Boston College star was drafted by the Titans in 2000 and played with them for 3 seasons. In 2003 he went to the Bengals, where he played one season, then after a year off, he closed his playing career with the Houston Texans in 2005. Titans coach Jeff Fischer once said of him, "Frank has just one speed - and that is full." Frank succumbed to a rare form of brain cancer.
Chamberlin becomes a situational player as a LB in our 4 LB sets.
101. Thomas Howard, 30, LB, 6-3, 230
Thomas was drafted out of UTEP in 2006 and started for the Raiders for 5 years until 2010. He then went to the Bengals for two seasons when his stats started to dwindle, and he was briefly with the Falcons before they cut him a week before his death. Witnesses say Howard was speeding at over 100 mph when lost control of his car, killing himself and another driver.
The six-year starter replaces Marion Rushing in the ADT lineup.
102. Jim Cason, 86, DB, 6-0, 170
The LSU boy joined the San Francisco 49rs when they were still a part of the old AAFL back in 1948. He was with them when the league disbanded and the team was absorbed into the NFL in 1950. Jim continued to play for Frisco for three more years, then went to the Rams, where he capped off his playing days in 1955 and 1956. Jim had 20 INTs in his 6-years in the NFL.
Jim joins the ADT as a situational player in our Nickle and Dime sets.
103. Tom Alberghini, 93, G, 5-10, 200
Small by today's standards, the Holy Cross lineman went to the Steelers in 1945, where he played one year. The old timer didn't make any All-Pro teams but he did earn the Silver Star for his exploits in WWII.
December
104. Norm Mosley, 91, TB, 5-9, 185
The 'Bama boy was drafted by the Eagles in 1945 but ran off to the war, Upon his return in 1948 he played one season with the Steelers. He was teammates with Jack Wiley of this year's ADT.
105. Charles Smith, 89, HB/DB, 5-11, 170
Charles was drafted by the Cardinals out of Georgia in 1947. He only played that one year in a support role, but it was a heckuva team that won the NFL championship against the Eagles. He had a few rushes backing up Charley Trippi, and he picked off a pass. Charles was teammates with Hamilton Nichols of the ADT.
106. John Wilbur, 70, G, 6-4, 250
The lanky lineman from Stanford was drafted by the Chiefs but went to the Cowboys in 1966. He played 4 seasons there, spent 1970 with the Rams, and did 4 more seasons with the Redskins to end his NFL career. John played in the famous "Ice" bowl, losing to Green Bay in 1967, and he played in one Super Bowl, losing with the Skin's Over-the-Hill-Gang to the Fins in 1973. He was teammates with Dick Evey, Deacon Jones, and Walt Sweeney of the ADT.
John replaces starting Gaurd Bill Austin on the ADT's Offensive line.
107. John Didion, 66, C, 6-3, 250
The big center was drafted out of Oregon St. by the Redskins in 1969 and played two seasons there. After snapping to Sonny Jurgenson he was picked up by the New Orleans Saints in 1971 and snapped to Archie Manning. He was the starting center for the Saints until 1974, when his career ended. John joins former teammate Toni Linhart on the ADT.
John replaces Brian Stoltenberg, our longest starter. Brian becomes the deep snapper on Special Teams.
108. Ron Goodwin, 72, WR, 5-11, 180
Drafted by the Eagles out of Baylor in 1963, Ron played his entire career, from 1963-2969, there. He caught 78 passess over those 7 seasons, mostly from Norm Snead. He was on the Eags with Earl Gros of this year's ADT.
109. Frank Maznicki, 93, HB, 5-9, 180
Frank was drafted out of Boston College by the Bears back in 1942. He was on the Bears team that year when they went undefeated during the regular season but lost the championship game to the Redskins. He joined the war effort from 1943-1945 as a Navy pilot, then returned to the Bears and won a championship in 1946 with Luckman, McAfee and Kavanaugh and those guys. He then joined the short-lived Boston Yanks for one season in 1947. Over his career, Frank gained 600 yards rushing and receiving, made 10 FGs and made the Pro Bowl his first year. After football, he became the longtime, legendary head coach at West Warwick High School, where he won 17 championships.
Frank joins the ADT in a situational role as the 3rd down back.
110. Ken Hutcherson, 61, LB,6-1, 220
Ken went to West Alabama and was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 1974. He played that year for Dallas and 1975 for the San Diego Chargers. "Hutch" succumbed after a long bout with cancer.
111. Bronzell Miller, 42, DE,6-4, 250
Bronzell was drafted out of Utah by the Rams in 1995 but went to the expansion Jacksonville Jaguars and played that one season for them. Also an aspiring actor, he appeared in a couple of movies, including "Bringing Down the House". Bronzell died of the rare blood disease multiple myeloma.
112. Art DeCarlo, 82, DB,6-2, 200
The Georgia Bulldog started his career in 1953 with the Pittsburgh Steelers, took a couple of seasons off while in the Army, then returned in 1956 with the Redskins. He started with them in 1957 when he was traded in midseason to the Colts, where played until the end of his career in 1960. Art played for two championships, beating the Giants in what is now known as "The Greatest Game Ever Played" in 1958, and beating the Giants again in 1959. Art had 7 INTs over his career, returned a couple of kicks and even caught a few passes. The pro's pro played alongside John Alderman, HOFr Jack Butler, and HOFr Art Donovan of this year's ADT.
113. Bill Troup, 62, QB,6-5, 220
The QB from Virginia wasn't drafted but hooked up with the Colts in 1974. He took 1975 off, then rejoined the team from 1976 to 1978. In 1980 he capped his career off with the Packers. The tall QB played mostly as a backup, only seeing appreciable action in 1978 when the great Bert Jones went down to injury. He threw over 300 times at a completion rate of 50.6%. He was teammates with kicker Toni Linhart of the 2013 ADT. No cause of death was available.
114. Art Weiner, 89, E-DE,6-3, 212
The old 2-way player was drafted out of North Carolina by the New York Yanks in 1950. He played one season with the short-lived Yanks that year. Art was especially good at receiver, catching 35 balls for a 20-yard average and scoring 6 TDs for the 7-5 Yanks. He was teammates with George Brown of the ADT that one year.
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