Jerry Sisemore

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

Sisemore's journey began in college as a sophomore on the 1970 Texas Longhorns team that built an unbeaten streak to 30 games, capturing the National Championship. He blossomed into one of the nation's best linemen over his next two seasons (1971 and 1972), earning both all-conference and Unanimous All-America selections each year. As a senior in 1972, he helped Texas win its fifth consecutive Southwest Conference title and secure its fourth straight Cotton Bowl Classic bid. These collegiate triumphs set the stage for his professional impact. After being drafted third overall in 1973, Sisemore found his greatest success following the arrival of legendary coach Dick Vermeil in 1976. Under Vermeil, the Eagles gradually improved, reaching the NFL playoffs in 1978 and 1979 before advancing to Super Bowl XV in 1980. He anchored an offense featuring Philadelphia sports legends like quarterback Ron Jaworski and running back Wilbert Montgomery.

In Their Own Story

The source highlights a specific era where Sisemore's presence defined the Eagles' offensive identity. Starting with his draft selection as the third overall pick in 1973, he remained an impact player throughout his career, particularly after Dick Vermeil took over coaching duties in 1976. The narrative of his time on the field centers on the team's climb from a rebuilding phase to a Super Bowl contender. In the 1980 season, this progression culminated in a Super Bowl XV appearance where Sisemore was a starter. While the source does not detail specific plays or weather conditions at Veterans Stadium, it confirms his integral role alongside key teammates like Ron Jaworski and Wilbert Montgomery. His consistency saw him earn Pro Bowl honors twice during this run. Even after retiring following the 1985 season (though his playing years listed are 1973–1984), he remained recognized as one of the greatest offensive lineners in franchise history, with his college legacy of a 30-game unbeaten streak and two-time unanimous All-American status adding depth to his reputation.

Reader's Guide

Jerald Grant Sisemore's career is defined by specific milestones supported by historical records. He played for the Philadelphia Eagles from 1973 to 1984, spanning 12 seasons. His college career at Texas Longhorns was marked by a 30-game unbeaten streak in 1970 and two consecutive years (1971, 1972) as a Unanimous All-American. Professionally, he was the third overall pick in the 1973 NFL draft. His peak performance years aligned with coach Dick Vermeil's tenure starting in 1976, leading to playoff appearances in 1978 and 1979, and a Super Bowl XV start in 1980. He earned two Pro Bowl selections during his time with the Eagles. After retiring following the 1985 season (per the source's timeline), he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2002. Post-football, he moved to Lago Vista, Texas, opening a marina on Lake Travis and working as a real estate agent.

Did You Know?

• Sisemore was the third overall pick in the first round of the 1973 NFL draft.
• He played on the 1970 Texas Longhorns team that built an unbeaten streak to 30 games and won the National Championship.
• He earned Unanimous All-America honors for two consecutive seasons, in 1971 and 1972.
• Sisemore was a starter in Super Bowl XV during his 12-season career with the Eagles.
• After retiring from football, he opened a marina on Lake Travis in Lago Vista, Texas.