Ok, let's see if there's anyone out there.
Who is your favorite Eagle from the 1966-75 timeframe? Let's exclude players that were still around for the Dick Vermeil (and the 1980 Super Bowl) era, as those will probably be no-brainers. (That means no Carmichael, Bergey, Gabriel, Sisemore, and Morriss.)
Since there is no poll widget, just use the comments.
EAGLES' FOOTBALL (1966-75)
A look back at the decade of Eagles' history just prior to the arrival of Dick Vermeil.
These were the Eagles' teams of my youth - where the only constant was futility.
Sunday, April 21, 2019
Saturday, April 6, 2019
Israel Lang - HB
"Izzy" Lang played for the Eagles for 5 seasons, and was their starting halfback for 2 seasons.
Lang was the Eagles' 18th-round pick in the 1964 draft. After 3 seasons behind Timmy Brown, Izzy was the team's starting halfback in 1967 and 1968. (Actually, Lang only started 7 games in '68. Rookie Cyril Pinder started 5 games that season.)
After contract squabbles, in July 1969 Lang was traded to the Rams for wide receiver Harold Jackson. (What a steal for the Eagles!)
The record shows Lang played 12 games for the Rams in 1969, but started none. His season totals were 1 rush for 1 yard. (I guess he was strictly a special teams player, stuck behind RBs Larry Smith, Les Josephson, Tommy Mason, and Willie Ellison.)
He only had 4 kick returns (3rd on the team), so maybe he was relegated to gunner?
In May 1970 he was traded to the Broncos, but never played for them.
Where'sWaldo Izzy?
Lang was the Eagles' 18th-round pick in the 1964 draft. After 3 seasons behind Timmy Brown, Izzy was the team's starting halfback in 1967 and 1968. (Actually, Lang only started 7 games in '68. Rookie Cyril Pinder started 5 games that season.)
After contract squabbles, in July 1969 Lang was traded to the Rams for wide receiver Harold Jackson. (What a steal for the Eagles!)
The record shows Lang played 12 games for the Rams in 1969, but started none. His season totals were 1 rush for 1 yard. (I guess he was strictly a special teams player, stuck behind RBs Larry Smith, Les Josephson, Tommy Mason, and Willie Ellison.)
He only had 4 kick returns (3rd on the team), so maybe he was relegated to gunner?
In May 1970 he was traded to the Broncos, but never played for them.
Where's
Monday, March 25, 2019
RIP - Nate Ramsey
Nate Ramsey, an Eagles' defensive back from 1963-72, passed away on March 8, 2019 at age 77.
Ramsey was a starting DB for the Birds for all but part of his rookie season.
In December 1970 Ramsey was shot on the streets of Philadelphia. He missed 3 games that season, but recovered in time to start all 14 games the next year.
He finished his career with the Saints in 1973.
Obituary
Saturday, March 23, 2019
Irv Cross - CB
Irv Cross was the Eagles' starting right cornerback from 1962-65 and again in his final season of 1969. He played 6 seasons for the Birds, 5 as a starter.
Cross was the Eagles' 7th-round pick in 1961. After a year on special teams, he started at right corner from 1962-65, making the Pro Bowl during the last 2 seasons.
In June 1966, Irv was traded to the Rams for defensive back Aaron Martin and running back Willie Brown. (Martin only played 2 seasons with the Eagles, and was their starting left cornerback in 1967. Brown only played 7 games for the Eagles in 1966, and had no rushes from scrimmage.)
Meanwhile, Cross started all but 2 games over the next 3 seasons for the Rams as their right cornerback. (Advantage Rams!)
Irv returned to the Eagles for his final season of 1969, as one of 3 players acquired from the Rams in the Bob Brown trade.
He retired after starting all 14 games in 1969, and was an Eagles' coach for a short time before becoming a network broadcaster, working with Brent Musberger and Phyllis George, as I recall.
Cross had Eagles' cards in 1964, 65, and 66.
Where'sWaldo Irv?
Cross was the Eagles' 7th-round pick in 1961. After a year on special teams, he started at right corner from 1962-65, making the Pro Bowl during the last 2 seasons.
In June 1966, Irv was traded to the Rams for defensive back Aaron Martin and running back Willie Brown. (Martin only played 2 seasons with the Eagles, and was their starting left cornerback in 1967. Brown only played 7 games for the Eagles in 1966, and had no rushes from scrimmage.)
Meanwhile, Cross started all but 2 games over the next 3 seasons for the Rams as their right cornerback. (Advantage Rams!)
Irv returned to the Eagles for his final season of 1969, as one of 3 players acquired from the Rams in the Bob Brown trade.
He retired after starting all 14 games in 1969, and was an Eagles' coach for a short time before becoming a network broadcaster, working with Brent Musberger and Phyllis George, as I recall.
Where's
Saturday, March 2, 2019
Ed Blaine - G
Staying on the offensive line a bit longer, today I am featuring Ed Blaine, the Eagles' starting left guard from 1963-66. Blaine didn't have any football cards, so these photos found on the internet will have to do.
Blaine was drafted by the Packers in the 2nd round in 1962. He played in every game as a rookie, but started none. (Some guys named Kramer and Thurston were ahead of him!)
In September 1963 he was traded to the Eagles. Ed played every game during his 4 seasons with the Birds, and started all but one game in '63 and one game in '66.
He retired after the 1966 season, at age 26. He had always intended to only play 5 seasons, then become a doctor. Eventually he became one of the country's leading pharmaceutical researchers.
Where'sWaldo Ed?
Blaine was drafted by the Packers in the 2nd round in 1962. He played in every game as a rookie, but started none. (Some guys named Kramer and Thurston were ahead of him!)
In September 1963 he was traded to the Eagles. Ed played every game during his 4 seasons with the Birds, and started all but one game in '63 and one game in '66.
He retired after the 1966 season, at age 26. He had always intended to only play 5 seasons, then become a doctor. Eventually he became one of the country's leading pharmaceutical researchers.
Where's
Monday, February 18, 2019
Jim Ringo - C
Jim Ringo was a Hall of Fame center who played for the Eagles from 1964-67, starting all 56 games during that 4-year span.
Ringo was the Packers' 7th-round pick in 1953, and played for the Pack from 1953-63. He was their starting center in all but his rookie season, and made the Pro Bowl in his last 7 seasons with Green Bay. He was also named 1st-team All-Pro in 6 of those 7 seasons.
As the story goes, after the 1963 season he went into Vince Lombardi's office to negotiate a pay raise. Lombardi excused himself for a few minutes, and when he returned to his office, he notified Ringo that he had just been traded - and to the lowly Eagles to boot. (Lombardi pulled a similar move on Jim Taylor 3 years later.)
The Eagles also got fullback Earl Gros in the deal, in exchange for linebacker Lee Roy Caffey and a first-round pick that ended up being running back Donny Anderson.
Ringo anchored the Eagles' offensive line for the next 4 seasons, then retired. He made 3 more Pro Bowls as an Eagle. He had started EVERY game from 1955 to 1967.
Jim was the Buffalo Bills' head coach for the '76 and '77 seasons. After that he was an offensive line coach for the Patriots (1979-81) and the Bills (1984-88).
He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1981. He was only the 2nd center to be inducted whose career was primarily after the 1940s. (Jim Otto having been inducted in 1980.)
Ringo passed away in 2007, 2 days before his 76th birthday.
These are Ringo's only Eagles' cards ('65, '66).
Where'sWaldo Jim?
Ringo was the Packers' 7th-round pick in 1953, and played for the Pack from 1953-63. He was their starting center in all but his rookie season, and made the Pro Bowl in his last 7 seasons with Green Bay. He was also named 1st-team All-Pro in 6 of those 7 seasons.
As the story goes, after the 1963 season he went into Vince Lombardi's office to negotiate a pay raise. Lombardi excused himself for a few minutes, and when he returned to his office, he notified Ringo that he had just been traded - and to the lowly Eagles to boot. (Lombardi pulled a similar move on Jim Taylor 3 years later.)
The Eagles also got fullback Earl Gros in the deal, in exchange for linebacker Lee Roy Caffey and a first-round pick that ended up being running back Donny Anderson.
Ringo anchored the Eagles' offensive line for the next 4 seasons, then retired. He made 3 more Pro Bowls as an Eagle. He had started EVERY game from 1955 to 1967.
Jim was the Buffalo Bills' head coach for the '76 and '77 seasons. After that he was an offensive line coach for the Patriots (1979-81) and the Bills (1984-88).
He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1981. He was only the 2nd center to be inducted whose career was primarily after the 1940s. (Jim Otto having been inducted in 1980.)
Ringo passed away in 2007, 2 days before his 76th birthday.
Where's
Saturday, February 9, 2019
Lane Howell - T
Book-ending the Eagles' O-line along with Bob Brown for the 2nd half of the 1960s was Lane Howell.
Howell was the Giants' 15th-round pick in the 1963 draft. After two seasons as a reserve, he was traded to the Eagles for guard Pete Case.
Incidentally, the Eagles' top 3 picks in 1963 were all offensive linemen:
#1 - G Ed Budde, who signed with the Chiefs and was a 7-time Pro Bowler in his 14-year career.
#2 - C Ray Mansfield, who after 1 year as a reserve was sold to the Steelers and was their starting center through 1976.
#3 - C Dave Crossan, who didn't play for the Eagles, but was the Redskins' backup center from 1965-69.
Howell played his final 5 seasons with the Eagles, and was the starting left tackle for all those years. He played 64 games for the Eagles, starting 58 of them.
Lane was cut at the end of training camp in 1970, The record shows he was claimed by the Rams, but released 2 weeks later, not having played any games for Los Angeles. (The record also shows the Eagles re-signed him in July 1971, but he didn't make the team.)
Howell passed away in January 2018 at age 76.
He had 2 brothers who also played in the NFL: Mike was a defensive back for the Browns from 1965-72, and Delles was a cornerback for the Saints and Jets from 1970-75.
Howell did not appear on any football cards issued by Topps or Philadelphia Gum. This is a custom 1966 card made by RetroCards, which I purchased along with 8 other 1966-style Eagles cards.
Where'sWaldo Lane?
Howell was the Giants' 15th-round pick in the 1963 draft. After two seasons as a reserve, he was traded to the Eagles for guard Pete Case.
Incidentally, the Eagles' top 3 picks in 1963 were all offensive linemen:
#1 - G Ed Budde, who signed with the Chiefs and was a 7-time Pro Bowler in his 14-year career.
#2 - C Ray Mansfield, who after 1 year as a reserve was sold to the Steelers and was their starting center through 1976.
#3 - C Dave Crossan, who didn't play for the Eagles, but was the Redskins' backup center from 1965-69.
Howell played his final 5 seasons with the Eagles, and was the starting left tackle for all those years. He played 64 games for the Eagles, starting 58 of them.
Lane was cut at the end of training camp in 1970, The record shows he was claimed by the Rams, but released 2 weeks later, not having played any games for Los Angeles. (The record also shows the Eagles re-signed him in July 1971, but he didn't make the team.)
Howell passed away in January 2018 at age 76.
He had 2 brothers who also played in the NFL: Mike was a defensive back for the Browns from 1965-72, and Delles was a cornerback for the Saints and Jets from 1970-75.
Where's
Monday, February 4, 2019
Bob Brown - T
Bob Brown was an All-Pro tackle for the Eagles from 1964 to 1968. He was the Eagles' #1 pick (2nd overall) in the 1964 draft, and started every game at right tackle during his 5 seasons with the Birds, except for missing 6 games in 1967 due to injury.
Brown was also the #1 pick (4th overall) of the Broncos in the AFL draft. Denver had the #1 overall pick, but traded down to #4, sending the top pick to Boston (which turned out to be QB Jack Concannon - who also signed with the Eagles!) . So the Eagles spanked both the Broncos and the Patriots in that draft!
"The Boomer" was named 1st-team All-Pro 3 times as an Eagle (all but his rookie season and the injury-shortened 1967). At 6'4", 280 lbs, he was huge for an O-lineman at that time.
Other top tackles of the day: Forrest Gregg (250 lbs), Ron Mix (250), Dick Schafrath (253), Rayfield Wright (255), Art Shell (265).
After the 1968 season, the Eagles were sold to Leonard Tose, and a new GM (Pete Retzlaff) and new head coach (Jerry Williams) were hired. Brown made it known he would not play for a team having Retzlaff as the GM. Did he think Pete was incompetent? A racist? Maybe some bad blood from their days as teammates? Inquiring minds want to know.
Brown was traded to the Rams in May 1969 (along with cornerback Jim Nettles) for CB Irv Cross, T Joe Carollo, and G Don Chuy. All 3 ex-Rams were near the end of their careers, with Cross and Chuy only playing 1 season each for the Eagles, and Carollo playing 2 seasons before returning to the Rams.
Meanwhile, Bob was again named 1st-team All-Pro in his 2 seasons with the Rams. He finished his career with 3 seasons in Oakland, making the Pro Bowl during his first season there. Brown was the Rams' or Raiders' starting right tackle for all those seasons.
He retired after the 1973 season, and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2004.
Here are his only Eagles cards ('66, '67). He also had cards as a Ram and Raider.
I looked up "Badass Mo-fo" in the dictionary, and this picture came up!
Where'sWaldo Bob?
Brown was also the #1 pick (4th overall) of the Broncos in the AFL draft. Denver had the #1 overall pick, but traded down to #4, sending the top pick to Boston (which turned out to be QB Jack Concannon - who also signed with the Eagles!) . So the Eagles spanked both the Broncos and the Patriots in that draft!
"The Boomer" was named 1st-team All-Pro 3 times as an Eagle (all but his rookie season and the injury-shortened 1967). At 6'4", 280 lbs, he was huge for an O-lineman at that time.
Other top tackles of the day: Forrest Gregg (250 lbs), Ron Mix (250), Dick Schafrath (253), Rayfield Wright (255), Art Shell (265).
After the 1968 season, the Eagles were sold to Leonard Tose, and a new GM (Pete Retzlaff) and new head coach (Jerry Williams) were hired. Brown made it known he would not play for a team having Retzlaff as the GM. Did he think Pete was incompetent? A racist? Maybe some bad blood from their days as teammates? Inquiring minds want to know.
Brown was traded to the Rams in May 1969 (along with cornerback Jim Nettles) for CB Irv Cross, T Joe Carollo, and G Don Chuy. All 3 ex-Rams were near the end of their careers, with Cross and Chuy only playing 1 season each for the Eagles, and Carollo playing 2 seasons before returning to the Rams.
Meanwhile, Bob was again named 1st-team All-Pro in his 2 seasons with the Rams. He finished his career with 3 seasons in Oakland, making the Pro Bowl during his first season there. Brown was the Rams' or Raiders' starting right tackle for all those seasons.
He retired after the 1973 season, and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2004.
I looked up "Badass Mo-fo" in the dictionary, and this picture came up!
Where's
Thursday, January 31, 2019
Mike Evans - C
Mike Evans had a 6-year career in the NFL from 1968 to 1973, and was the Eagles' starting center for the middle 4 seasons.
Evans was the team's 9th-round pick in the 1968 draft. Veteran center Jim Ringo retired after the 1967 season, so the Eagles drafted Evans and signed Gene Ceppetelli from the CFL. Ceppetelli started most of the games in '68, but Evans played in 6 games (and started 4) in his rookie season.
He then anchored the O-line for the next 4 seasons, starting 13, 14, 14 and 12 games in that span. (I have a vague recollection that he missed most of one season (either '71 or '72) while the Eagles' tried to make-do with journeyman center Jerry Sturm and backup guard Mark Nordquist snapping the ball, but the record shows Evans played 12 games (all starts) in 1972, so my memory is slipping.)
In his final NFL season (1973), Evans played in all 14 games but only started 5, with rookie Guy Morriss starting 9 games.
Evans was traded to Detroit in January 1974 for safety Willie Germany, but did not make the Lions' team. He played for two WFL teams that season before retiring.
(Evans had no football cards)
Where'sWaldo Mike?
Evans was the team's 9th-round pick in the 1968 draft. Veteran center Jim Ringo retired after the 1967 season, so the Eagles drafted Evans and signed Gene Ceppetelli from the CFL. Ceppetelli started most of the games in '68, but Evans played in 6 games (and started 4) in his rookie season.
He then anchored the O-line for the next 4 seasons, starting 13, 14, 14 and 12 games in that span. (I have a vague recollection that he missed most of one season (either '71 or '72) while the Eagles' tried to make-do with journeyman center Jerry Sturm and backup guard Mark Nordquist snapping the ball, but the record shows Evans played 12 games (all starts) in 1972, so my memory is slipping.)
In his final NFL season (1973), Evans played in all 14 games but only started 5, with rookie Guy Morriss starting 9 games.
Evans was traded to Detroit in January 1974 for safety Willie Germany, but did not make the Lions' team. He played for two WFL teams that season before retiring.
Where's
Friday, January 25, 2019
Floyd Peters - DT
Floyd Peters played 6 seasons for the Eagles (1964-69), and was their starting left defensive tackle for 5 1/2 seasons (missing much of 1968 due to injury).
Peters was drafted by the Colts in 1958, but spent that season on their taxi squad. He began his career with the Browns, playing in Cleveland from 1959-62 and starting at right defensive tackle for the last 3 seasons.
He then played 1 year as the Lions' left DT, before coming to the Eagles in April 1964 (with running back Ollie Matson) for tackle J.D. Smith.
Floyd started 14, 9, 14, and 12 games over the next 4 seasons before missing all but 5 games in 1968. He returned to start all 14 games in 1969, his last as an Eagle. He made 3 Pro Bowls while with the Eagles ('64, '66, '67).
Peters was waived in the Spring of 1970, but hooked on with the Redskins as a player/coach for 1970. He played in 10 games (9 starts) in his final season.
Peters was a defensive coordinator for 6 teams from 1974-1994.
He passed away in 2008 at age 82.
Here are Peters' 1967 and 1968 cards. He also had a card in the 1965 set.
Where'sWaldo Floyd?
Peters looks older than the head coach sitting next to him!
Peters was drafted by the Colts in 1958, but spent that season on their taxi squad. He began his career with the Browns, playing in Cleveland from 1959-62 and starting at right defensive tackle for the last 3 seasons.
He then played 1 year as the Lions' left DT, before coming to the Eagles in April 1964 (with running back Ollie Matson) for tackle J.D. Smith.
Floyd started 14, 9, 14, and 12 games over the next 4 seasons before missing all but 5 games in 1968. He returned to start all 14 games in 1969, his last as an Eagle. He made 3 Pro Bowls while with the Eagles ('64, '66, '67).
Peters was waived in the Spring of 1970, but hooked on with the Redskins as a player/coach for 1970. He played in 10 games (9 starts) in his final season.
Peters was a defensive coordinator for 6 teams from 1974-1994.
He passed away in 2008 at age 82.
Where's
Saturday, January 12, 2019
Gary Ballman - WR/TE
Gary Ballman was a receiver who played for the Eagles for 6 seasons, the first 5 as a starter. He was the team's split end for 2 seasons, then moved to tight end when the Eagles acquired Harold Jackson in 1969.
Ballman was the Steelers' 8th-round pick in 1962, and was their starting flanker (and kick returner) from 1963-66. (Photos showing Ballman wearing #48 are from his rookie season in 1962. He switched to #85 in 1963).
He made the Pro Bowl twice while with the Steelers ('64, '65).
The Eagles acquired him in March 1967 (too late for a football card update) for fullback Earl Gros and rookie guard Bruce Van Dyke. Van Dyke would be the Steelers' starting right guard from 1967-73, while Gros was only the starter in '68 and '69. (The Steelers filled Ballman's spot with 2nd-year man J.R. Wilburn.)
Gary started 12 to 14 games per season for his first 4 years with the Eagles. On a team with Harold Jackson and Ben Hawkins as wideouts, Gary was usually the #3 receiver, but he lead the receiving corps with 47 catches in 1970. (Fullback Lee Bouggess had 50 catches.)
In 1971 he started the first 6 games, then missed the rest of the season with a knee injury that required surgery. Rookie Harold Carmichael moved to tight end for the rest of the season.
Ballman returned in 1972, but only played in 8 games (starting 4). Kent Kramer had joined the Birds, and started 8 games at TE, with Carmichael picking up the rest.
Gary split the 1973 season between the Giants and Vikings, before retiring.
Here are all of Ballman's cards during his time with the Eagles ('67, '68, '69, '70).
Where'sWaldo Gary?
Ballman was the Steelers' 8th-round pick in 1962, and was their starting flanker (and kick returner) from 1963-66. (Photos showing Ballman wearing #48 are from his rookie season in 1962. He switched to #85 in 1963).
He made the Pro Bowl twice while with the Steelers ('64, '65).
The Eagles acquired him in March 1967 (too late for a football card update) for fullback Earl Gros and rookie guard Bruce Van Dyke. Van Dyke would be the Steelers' starting right guard from 1967-73, while Gros was only the starter in '68 and '69. (The Steelers filled Ballman's spot with 2nd-year man J.R. Wilburn.)
Gary started 12 to 14 games per season for his first 4 years with the Eagles. On a team with Harold Jackson and Ben Hawkins as wideouts, Gary was usually the #3 receiver, but he lead the receiving corps with 47 catches in 1970. (Fullback Lee Bouggess had 50 catches.)
In 1971 he started the first 6 games, then missed the rest of the season with a knee injury that required surgery. Rookie Harold Carmichael moved to tight end for the rest of the season.
Ballman returned in 1972, but only played in 8 games (starting 4). Kent Kramer had joined the Birds, and started 8 games at TE, with Carmichael picking up the rest.
Gary split the 1973 season between the Giants and Vikings, before retiring.
Where's
Sunday, January 6, 2019
Chuck Hughes - WR
Chuck Hughes was a backup wide receiver for the Eagles and Lions. Sadly, he is mostly known as the only NFL player to have died on the field during a game.
Hughes was the Eagles' 4th-round pick in the 1967 draft, and spent 3 seasons as their #3 wide receiver, behind Ben Hawkins, Gary Ballman ('67-'68), and Harold Jackson ('69).
He never played in more than 9 games per season with the Birds, nor had more than 3 receptions per season.
He was traded to the Lions during training camp in 1970, and started 9 games for Detroit that season (although his 8 receptions were well behind the Lions' top 2 wideouts).
In 1971, during the week 6 game vs. the Bears (10/24) Hughes collapsed on the field while returning to the huddle. He had a heart attack, and was later found to have arteriosclerosis. The game continued to its conclusion (apparently without any crowd reaction, according to reports).
Where'sWaldo Chuck?
Hughes was the Eagles' 4th-round pick in the 1967 draft, and spent 3 seasons as their #3 wide receiver, behind Ben Hawkins, Gary Ballman ('67-'68), and Harold Jackson ('69).
He never played in more than 9 games per season with the Birds, nor had more than 3 receptions per season.
He was traded to the Lions during training camp in 1970, and started 9 games for Detroit that season (although his 8 receptions were well behind the Lions' top 2 wideouts).
In 1971, during the week 6 game vs. the Bears (10/24) Hughes collapsed on the field while returning to the huddle. He had a heart attack, and was later found to have arteriosclerosis. The game continued to its conclusion (apparently without any crowd reaction, according to reports).
Where's
Wednesday, January 2, 2019
Sam Baker - K/P
Sam Baker played for the Eagles for 6 seasons (1964-69). He was acquired from the Cowboys (with others) for Tommy McDonald after the 1963 season.
Sam was the Rams' 11th-round pick in the 1952 draft, but did not play until 1953, when he was with the Redskins. He played for Washington in 1953 and from 1956-59 (missing 1954-55 while in the military). He then played 2 years each with the Browns and Cowboys before coming to the Eagles.
Baker was a fullback for his first 2 seasons, along with his kicking duties. He was also a punter in every season but his last (1969), and was a kicker every season except 1953 and 1961.
Sam made the Pro Bowl 4 times ('56, '63, '64, '68), and led the NFL in XP in 1960 and 1962 (yet did not kick in 1961 because Lou Groza resumed his kicking duties with the Browns), and also in FG percentage in 1966.
He shared the Eagles' punting with King Hill from 1964-68 (60% Baker / 40% Hill), and ceded all the punting to rookie Bill Bradley in 1969.
Sam was waived at the end of training camp in 1970, replaced by rookie Mark Moseley. Baker retired as the #2 scorer in NFL history with 977 points..
He passed away in 2007 at age 76.
Here are Baker's 6 cards with the Eagles (1964-1969). Like quarterbacks, it seems like every kicker was featured on a card every year. (In the 1964 set, there are 2 kickers for the Eagles - Baker, and Mike Clark, the Eagles kicker before Baker.)
Where'sWaldo Sam?
Sam was the Rams' 11th-round pick in the 1952 draft, but did not play until 1953, when he was with the Redskins. He played for Washington in 1953 and from 1956-59 (missing 1954-55 while in the military). He then played 2 years each with the Browns and Cowboys before coming to the Eagles.
Baker was a fullback for his first 2 seasons, along with his kicking duties. He was also a punter in every season but his last (1969), and was a kicker every season except 1953 and 1961.
Sam made the Pro Bowl 4 times ('56, '63, '64, '68), and led the NFL in XP in 1960 and 1962 (yet did not kick in 1961 because Lou Groza resumed his kicking duties with the Browns), and also in FG percentage in 1966.
He shared the Eagles' punting with King Hill from 1964-68 (60% Baker / 40% Hill), and ceded all the punting to rookie Bill Bradley in 1969.
Sam was waived at the end of training camp in 1970, replaced by rookie Mark Moseley. Baker retired as the #2 scorer in NFL history with 977 points..
He passed away in 2007 at age 76.
Where's
Tuesday, December 18, 2018
Fred Hill - TE
Fred Hill was a receiver who played for the Eagles for 7 seasons (1965-71). He was mostly a backup tight end, but in 2 of his seasons he started 8 of the 14 games, making him the primary starter.
Fred was the Eagles' 4th-round pick in 1965. After a year on special teams, he started 8 games at split end in 1966, in place of the injured Ray Poage. Hill returned to the starting lineup in 1968, filling in for the injured and/or suspended Mike Ditka at tight end.
He played in at least 12 games every season except 1969 (8 games) and 1971 (7). Hill retired during training camp in 1972.
This is Fred's only football card - from the 1969 Topps set.
Fred Hill was one of the driving forces (along with Eagles' owner Leonard Tose) of the Ronald McDonald House charity. In 1971, Hill's 5-year-old daughter was diagnosed with leukemia. After her successful treatment, Hill and the Eagles started the "Eagles Fly For Leukemia" program, and founded the first Ronald McDonald's House, in Philadelphia.
"Where is he now" story on the Eagles' website
Where'sWaldo Fred?
Fred was the Eagles' 4th-round pick in 1965. After a year on special teams, he started 8 games at split end in 1966, in place of the injured Ray Poage. Hill returned to the starting lineup in 1968, filling in for the injured and/or suspended Mike Ditka at tight end.
He played in at least 12 games every season except 1969 (8 games) and 1971 (7). Hill retired during training camp in 1972.
Fred Hill was one of the driving forces (along with Eagles' owner Leonard Tose) of the Ronald McDonald House charity. In 1971, Hill's 5-year-old daughter was diagnosed with leukemia. After her successful treatment, Hill and the Eagles started the "Eagles Fly For Leukemia" program, and founded the first Ronald McDonald's House, in Philadelphia.
"Where is he now" story on the Eagles' website
Where's
Sunday, December 9, 2018
RIP - Tim Rossovich
Tim Rossovich, who played defensive end and middle linebacker for the Eagles from 1968-1971, passed away on December 6, 2018 at age 72.
Rossovich was the Eagles' #1 pick in 1968 from USC. (The Birds also selected his USC teammate Adrian Young in the 3rd round that year.) Tim was immediately installed as the starting left end and remained there until the 2nd month of 1970, when he was moved to middle linebacker. He also made the Pro Bowl in 1969.
After the 1971 season, he was traded to the Chargers for a #1 draft pick (TE Charlie Young). After 2 seasons he returned to Philadelphia as a member of the WFL's Philadelphia Bell from 1974-75.
After a final season (1976) back in the NFL with the Oilers, Tim retired and became a movie and TV actor.
Besides football and acting, Rosso was known for stunts like eating glass and setting his hair on fire.
Philadelphia Eagles obituary
Washington Post obituary
Rossovich was the Eagles' #1 pick in 1968 from USC. (The Birds also selected his USC teammate Adrian Young in the 3rd round that year.) Tim was immediately installed as the starting left end and remained there until the 2nd month of 1970, when he was moved to middle linebacker. He also made the Pro Bowl in 1969.
After the 1971 season, he was traded to the Chargers for a #1 draft pick (TE Charlie Young). After 2 seasons he returned to Philadelphia as a member of the WFL's Philadelphia Bell from 1974-75.
After a final season (1976) back in the NFL with the Oilers, Tim retired and became a movie and TV actor.
Besides football and acting, Rosso was known for stunts like eating glass and setting his hair on fire.
Philadelphia Eagles obituary
Washington Post obituary
Thursday, December 6, 2018
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'sWaldo Mel?
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.
Where's
Friday, November 30, 2018
Mark Nordquist - G
Mark Nordquist played guard for the Eagles for 7 seasons - 5 as a starter. What can I say about him? If he were a baseball pitcher, the phrase "he eats innings" would be apropos.
Nordquist was drafted by the Eagles in the 5th round of the 1968 draft, after their earlier picks of Tim Rossovich, Cyril Pinder, Adrian Young, and Mike Dirks. (Mark was taken 6 picks ahead of guard Blaine Nye, drafted by the Cowboys.)
With incumbent right guard Jim Skaggs missing all of 1968 with injuries, Nordquist started all 14 games for the Birds as a rookie.
After spending '69 and '70 on the bench (behind Skaggs), Nordquist took over the starting right guard spot for all of 1971-74, starting 14, 13, 14, and 10 games in that 4-year span.
In April 1975 he was traded to the Bears for 2 draft picks, one of which became fullback Mike Hogan. Nordquist started 1 season for the Bears, then played only 1 game in 1976 before retiring.
These are Nordquist's three Eagles cards ('72, '73, '74). He was the Eagles' starting right guard from 1971-74, but Topps has incorrectly listed him as a center on his first 2 cards. (Although he was also the team's backup center in 1971 and for parts of '69 and '72.)
Where'sWaldo Mark?
Nordquist was drafted by the Eagles in the 5th round of the 1968 draft, after their earlier picks of Tim Rossovich, Cyril Pinder, Adrian Young, and Mike Dirks. (Mark was taken 6 picks ahead of guard Blaine Nye, drafted by the Cowboys.)
With incumbent right guard Jim Skaggs missing all of 1968 with injuries, Nordquist started all 14 games for the Birds as a rookie.
After spending '69 and '70 on the bench (behind Skaggs), Nordquist took over the starting right guard spot for all of 1971-74, starting 14, 13, 14, and 10 games in that 4-year span.
In April 1975 he was traded to the Bears for 2 draft picks, one of which became fullback Mike Hogan. Nordquist started 1 season for the Bears, then played only 1 game in 1976 before retiring.
These are Nordquist's three Eagles cards ('72, '73, '74). He was the Eagles' starting right guard from 1971-74, but Topps has incorrectly listed him as a center on his first 2 cards. (Although he was also the team's backup center in 1971 and for parts of '69 and '72.)
Where's
Friday, November 16, 2018
King Hill - QB/P
King Hill was the Eagles' backup quarterback for 8 seasons (1961-68) but only started more than 4 games once (6 in 1963), He was also their punter from 1961-63, and shared the punting with Sam Baker after that.
When we Philadelphia-area kids were playing backyard football in the late 1960s, someone always wanted to be King Hill. Why? I guess because no one liked Eagles' starting QB Norm Snead, and "King Hill" was a cool name, so... yeah...
Hill was the #1 overall draft pick in 1958 (by the Chicago Cardinals). How did he become a career backup (for the 1960s' Eagles, no less)?
After riding the bench in 1958 behind veteran Lamar McHan and fellow rookie QB M.C. Reynolds in '58, Hill started 10 games for the Cards in 1959, but returned to the bench for all but 1 game in 1960.
After the retirement of starting QB Norm Van Brocklin, the Eagles traded a first-round pick to acquire Hill before the 1961 season. Sonny Jurgensen would be the starting QB for the next 3 seasons, relegating Hill to punting chores only (and a rare 6 starts at QB in 1963).
Jurgensen was swapped for Norm Snead after 1963, but Hill would remain the team's #2 quarterback for the rest of his Eagles' career.
Midway through the 1968 season, he was traded to the Vikings for a 3rd-round pick that would become safety Bill Bradley. Hill didn't see any QB action with the Vikings, but took over the punting chores from tight end Billy Martin.
King returned to the Cardinals for the 1969 season (as a punter only, since they had Charley Johnson and Jim Hart in the house) then retired after the season.
He was later a coach for the Oilers and Saints, and a scout for the Eagles.
Hill passed away in 2012 at age 75.
Here are King Hill's 1962 and 1964 cards, and also 3 custom cards that I purchased from RetroCards ('63, '65, '66).
Where'sWaldo King?
When we Philadelphia-area kids were playing backyard football in the late 1960s, someone always wanted to be King Hill. Why? I guess because no one liked Eagles' starting QB Norm Snead, and "King Hill" was a cool name, so... yeah...
Hill was the #1 overall draft pick in 1958 (by the Chicago Cardinals). How did he become a career backup (for the 1960s' Eagles, no less)?
After riding the bench in 1958 behind veteran Lamar McHan and fellow rookie QB M.C. Reynolds in '58, Hill started 10 games for the Cards in 1959, but returned to the bench for all but 1 game in 1960.
After the retirement of starting QB Norm Van Brocklin, the Eagles traded a first-round pick to acquire Hill before the 1961 season. Sonny Jurgensen would be the starting QB for the next 3 seasons, relegating Hill to punting chores only (and a rare 6 starts at QB in 1963).
Jurgensen was swapped for Norm Snead after 1963, but Hill would remain the team's #2 quarterback for the rest of his Eagles' career.
Midway through the 1968 season, he was traded to the Vikings for a 3rd-round pick that would become safety Bill Bradley. Hill didn't see any QB action with the Vikings, but took over the punting chores from tight end Billy Martin.
King returned to the Cardinals for the 1969 season (as a punter only, since they had Charley Johnson and Jim Hart in the house) then retired after the season.
He was later a coach for the Oilers and Saints, and a scout for the Eagles.
Hill passed away in 2012 at age 75.
Where's
Wednesday, November 7, 2018
Timmy Brown - HB
Timmy Brown played for the Eagles for 8 seasons (1960-67) and was their starting halfback for 5 seasons. He also was a kick returner from 1960-67, and punt returner from 1960-64.
He was signed as a free agent before the 1960 season, after being cut by the Packers after his rookie season.
Brown was quite prolific as a kick returner, leading the NFL twice in returns, return yards, and return touchdowns. In 1961 one of his TDs was a 105-yard return, longest in the NFL.
In 1963 he also attempted 3 passes, completing 1 for an 11-yard touchdown.
Timmy made the Pro Bowl in '62, '63, and '65.
In his final season with the Birds (1967), Brown only started 4 of his 7 games, and missed 7 games due to injury. After the season he was traded to the Colts for cornerback Alvin Haymond.
I have all 4 of Brown's Philly Gum cards (1964-67).
After football, Brown became an actor, and appeared in the M*A*S*H movie and a few of the early TV episodes. On the TV show, he played "Spearchucker Jones", the role played by Fred "The Hammer" Williamson in the movie.
Where'sWaldo Tim?
He was signed as a free agent before the 1960 season, after being cut by the Packers after his rookie season.
Brown was quite prolific as a kick returner, leading the NFL twice in returns, return yards, and return touchdowns. In 1961 one of his TDs was a 105-yard return, longest in the NFL.
In 1963 he also attempted 3 passes, completing 1 for an 11-yard touchdown.
Timmy made the Pro Bowl in '62, '63, and '65.
In his final season with the Birds (1967), Brown only started 4 of his 7 games, and missed 7 games due to injury. After the season he was traded to the Colts for cornerback Alvin Haymond.
After football, Brown became an actor, and appeared in the M*A*S*H movie and a few of the early TV episodes. On the TV show, he played "Spearchucker Jones", the role played by Fred "The Hammer" Williamson in the movie.
Where's
Saturday, November 3, 2018
Ben Hawkins - WR
Ben Hawkins was the Eagles' 3rd-round pick in 1966, and played 8 seasons with the Birds. He was a starting wideout in all but his last season, and played every game during those first 7 seasons.
In 1967, Ben led the NFL with 1265 receiving yards. In 1968 he set a team record with a 92-yard touchdown reception.
In his final season with Philly (1973) he started the first 4 games, then missed the remainder of the season with a broken leg.
Hawkins wrapped up his NFL career with the Browns in 1974, and played with the WFL's Philadelphia Bell in 1975.
He passed away last year at age 73.
Here are all of Ben's cards ('70, '73, '74)
When I was a teen, I had a poster of Hawkins in my room. (I don't remember if it was this one, but here is what I found on the web). He was famous for always playing with his chinstrap unbuckled.
Ben Hawkins story
Where'sWaldo Ben?
In 1967, Ben led the NFL with 1265 receiving yards. In 1968 he set a team record with a 92-yard touchdown reception.
In his final season with Philly (1973) he started the first 4 games, then missed the remainder of the season with a broken leg.
Hawkins wrapped up his NFL career with the Browns in 1974, and played with the WFL's Philadelphia Bell in 1975.
He passed away last year at age 73.
When I was a teen, I had a poster of Hawkins in my room. (I don't remember if it was this one, but here is what I found on the web). He was famous for always playing with his chinstrap unbuckled.
Ben Hawkins story
Where's
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