Jack Youngblood

Lore & Background

Youngblood played college football for the University of Florida, where he was recognized as an All-American and is a member of the College Football Hall of Fame. He was selected by the Los Angeles Rams in the first round of the 1971 NFL draft (20th overall). After retiring as a player in 1985, he worked in the Rams' front office until 1991, then in the front office of the Sacramento Surge (WLAF) from 1992 to 1993, the Sacramento Gold Miners (CFL) from 1993 to 1994, and as vice-president and president of the Orlando Predators from 1995 to 1999. From 1999 through 2002, he served as the NFL's liaison for the Arena Football League. In 2014, he opened the Jack Youngblood Center for NeuroEnhancement in Orlando, Florida.

In Their Own Story

The roar of Anaheim Stadium fades into a singular focus as Youngblood lines up against the right tackle. The sun beats down on the blue turf, dust swirling around his cleats. He knows this play; he has run it a thousand times before. With a sudden burst, he drives forward, shoulder pads colliding with bone and padding in a thunderous crash that echoes through the stadium.

Reader's Guide

Youngblood was born in Jacksonville, Florida, and attended Monticello-Jefferson County High School in Monticello, Florida. At the University of Florida, he was a three-year varsity letterman and set a school record for sacks (14) in 1969. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in finance in 1972. In the NFL, he led the Rams in sacks multiple times and was named NFC Defensive Player of the Year by United Press International in 1975. He played in seven Pro Bowls and was a five-time consensus All-Pro.

Did You Know?

• Youngblood was part of the testing for what became Gatorade while at the University of Florida.
• In a 1975 playoff win, he intercepted a pass and returned it 47 yards for a touchdown.
• He served on the NFLPA Mackey-White Health & Safety Committee.