Births on April 13

Ted Washington

Born on April 13, 1968

Ted Washington, American football player

Theodore Washington Jr., born on April 13, 1968, etched a formidable legacy in American professional football as a defensive tackle, renowned for his colossal presence and enduring impact on the game's most physically demanding trenches. His journey into the demanding world of the National Football League (NFL) began with considerable fanfare when the San Francisco 49ers selected him in the prestigious first round of the 1991 NFL Draft, a testament to the immense potential he showcased emerging from the University of Louisville. Such an early pick immediately signaled the high expectations placed upon him to anchor a defense.

A Dominant Force Across the League

Throughout his extensive NFL tenure, which spanned well over a decade, Washington proved to be a consistently sought-after talent, leaving his mark on numerous prominent franchises. After his foundational years with the San Francisco 49ers, he lent his considerable skills to the Denver Broncos, Buffalo Bills, Chicago Bears, New England Patriots, Oakland Raiders, and Cleveland Browns. This journey through multiple teams underscored not only his adaptability but also his consistent value to defenses across the league, ultimately concluding his playing career after the 2007 season. His ability to perform at a high level for various organizations is a hallmark of his professional dedication.

The Prototypical Nose Tackle: "Mt. Washington"

Standing at an imposing 6'5" and tipping the scales at more than 375 pounds in his prime, Theodore Washington Jr. was truly a sight to behold on the defensive line. His sheer mass and strength positioned him perfectly as "the prototypical 3-4 nose tackle of his era." In the aggressive 3-4 defensive scheme, the nose tackle is the unsung hero, a linchpin tasked with directly engaging and occupying multiple offensive blockers, often the center and both guards. This critical role is designed to disrupt the opponent's run game at its very inception and, crucially, to free up the linebackers to rush the passer or make tackles. Washington's gargantuan frame and immovable presence were so striking that he earned memorable and fitting nicknames such as "Mt. Washington" or the "Washington Monument," which quickly became synonymous with his indomitable power on the field.

Championship Glory and Remarkable Longevity

Washington's excellence was consistently recognized throughout his illustrious career, earning him four coveted Pro Bowl selections, a clear testament to his elite performance and the respect he commanded from peers and coaches alike. A crowning achievement undoubtedly came during his time with the New England Patriots, where he played a pivotal role in their triumphant victory over the Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl XXXVIII, securing one of professional football's most desired accolades – a championship ring. Perhaps even more remarkable than his physical dominance and championship success was his extraordinary longevity. He continued to perform as a starting nose tackle, arguably one of the most physically brutal and demanding positions in all of professional football, until the impressive age of 39. This incredible feat defies the typical career span for players of his size and position, speaking volumes about his unparalleled resilience, unwavering dedication, and sustained high-level play that cemented his legacy as one of the game's truly enduring forces.

Frequently Asked Questions About Theodore Washington Jr.

What position did Theodore Washington Jr. play?: Theodore Washington Jr. primarily played as a defensive tackle, specifically excelling as a nose tackle in a 3-4 defensive scheme.
How many Pro Bowls did he make?: He was selected to four Pro Bowls during his distinguished NFL career.
Did Theodore Washington Jr. win a Super Bowl?: Yes, he won Super Bowl XXXVIII with the New England Patriots, defeating the Carolina Panthers.
What was Theodore Washington Jr. known for?: He was known for his immense size (6'5", over 375 pounds), being the "prototypical 3-4 nose tackle," and his remarkable longevity in one of football's most physically demanding positions, playing until age 39. He also earned nicknames like "Mt. Washington" due to his formidable presence.
Which teams did he play for?: Throughout his career, he played for the San Francisco 49ers, Denver Broncos, Buffalo Bills, Chicago Bears, New England Patriots, Oakland Raiders, and Cleveland Browns.
When did he retire from professional football?: Theodore Washington Jr. retired after the 2007 NFL season.

References

Ted Washington

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Events on 1968

30 Jan

Tet Offensive
Vietnam War: Tet Offensive launch by forces of the Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army against South Vietnam, the United States, and their allies.
31 Jan

Tet Offensive
Vietnam War: Viet Cong guerrillas attack the United States embassy in Saigon, and other attacks, in the early morning hours, later grouped together as the Tet Offensive.
29 Apr

Counterculture of the 1960s
The controversial musical Hair, a product of the hippie counter-culture and sexual revolution of the 1960s, opens at the Biltmore Theatre on Broadway, with some of its songs becoming anthems of the anti-Vietnam War movement.
14 Oct

U.S. Marine Corps
Vietnam War: The United States Department of Defense announces that the U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corps will send about 24,000 soldiers and Marines back to Vietnam for involuntary second tours of duty in the combat zone there.
20 Oct

Jacqueline Kennedy
Former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy marries Greek shipping tycoon Aristotle Onassis.