Black History Month Spotlight: NFL
In honor of Black History Month and the 2025 Super Bowl coming up this Sunday, here are some spotlights on players in the NFL that broke the color barrier and players that are making a difference today in the league.
Kenny Washington: Washington was a star player at UCLA leading the nation in scoring in 1939, playing 580 minutes out of 600 and becoming the first All-American from UCLA. Even though it was obvious he was talented, there was no place for him to play professionally as the NFL was in the middle of a 12 year ban on African American players. In 1946, he finally signed with the Los Angeles rams, playing for 3 seasons and averaging 7.4 rushing yards per attempt. His legacy is not forgotten as he still holds a 92 yard rushing record for the Rams.
Woody Strode: Woody Strode also signed with the Rams in 1946, only playing one season. After his season, Strode advocated for equally rights in the NFL, as well as becoming a professional actor.
Bill Willis: Bill Willis was an All-American at Ohio State and joint the Cleveland Browns in 1946 as defensive tackle. His style of play helped create today’s position of “linebacker”. He played eight seasons for the Browns and appeared in three NFL Pro Bowls. He was inducted into both the College Football Hall of Fame and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1977.
Marion Motley: Marion Motley joined the Cleveland Browns alongside Willis in 1946. He was initially added to the team to be a roommate for Willis but his performance on the field greatly benefited the team. He played for four years with a career of 3,024 yards, an average of 6.2 yards-per-attempt, and 26 touchdowns. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1968.
Doug Williams: Doug Williams was originally drafted by the Buccaneers in the first round in 1978. With Tampa he led them to three playoff appearances. He then played for the Washington Redskins (now Commanders). With Washington, he became the first Black quarterback to play in a Super Bowl and also the first Black quarterback to win a Super Bowl. That year he also won Super Bowl MVP.
Super Bowl 2025: This years Super Bowl will be between 2 Black Quarterbacks. Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs will be trying for a three-peat and Jalen Hurts, playing for the Eagles, will be aiming for his first Super Bowl.
