Mel Tom - DE

Mel Tom was a defensive end who played 7 seasons for the Eagles, 5+ as a starter.

He was their 6th-round pick in 1966, but saw his first action in 1967. (I assume he was on the taxi-squad in '66.)

Early in his career he was listed as a linebacker (see 2nd photo below), which may explain why he wore #58 for his first 3 seasons, rather than a number in the 80's. (In 1970 he switched to the more high-profile #99.)

After starting 5 games in 1967, Mel became the full-time regular right defensive end for the next 5 seasons, starting all but 1 game from 1968 to 1972. His steady presence at RDE for those 5 years was in stark contrast to the revolving lineup elsewhere on the D-line, especially the two left-side positions.

In 1969 Mel led the NFL in safeties (one!)

After starting the first 4 games of the 1973 season, Tom was dealt to the Bears for a 5th round pick in 1974, which became DT Jim Cagle.

Mel started 8 games for the Bears in '73, and started 7 of his 14 games the following year. He retired in 1975 after playing 6 games.

He passed away in 2006 at age 64.

Here is Mel Tom's lone Eagles' card, from 1973. He also had a card in 1975, as a Bear.

Where's Waldo Mel?