Bob Lurtsema, American football player

Robert Ross Lurtsema, born on March 29, 1942, carved out a notable career as an American professional football player, primarily known for his role as a defensive end in the National Football League (NFL). His journey through the demanding world of professional sports saw him don the jerseys of the Minnesota Vikings, New York Giants, and Seattle Seahawks, including appearances in two Super Bowls with the Vikings. Lurtsema’s path to the NFL was a testament to his tenacity and adaptability, a story marked by collegiate sports shifts, strategic trades, and an eventual rise to prominence on the gridiron, earning him the affectionate moniker "Benchwarmer Bob" later in his career.

Early Life and Collegiate Gridiron Genesis

Hailing from Grand Rapids, Michigan, Robert Ross Lurtsema began his athletic pursuits at Ottawa Hills High School. His initial collegiate path in 1962 led him to Michigan Tech, where he enrolled on a basketball scholarship. However, destiny had other plans, as Lurtsema soon discovered a passion and talent for football, lettering in the sport as a Huskie during that very 1962 season. This burgeoning interest prompted a significant move: Lurtsema transferred to Western Michigan University, where he continued to hone his football skills, earning another letter as a Bronco in 1965. Despite his collegiate efforts, he remained undrafted after graduation, a common hurdle for many aspiring NFL players.

From Taxi Squad to NFL Stardom: The Early Professional Years

Lurtsema's professional football journey began in 1966 with the Harrisburg Capitals of the Atlantic Coast Football League, a team that served as a taxi squad affiliate for the Baltimore Colts. A pivotal moment in his career came when Colts coach Don Shula drafted Bubba Smith in 1967, which, while blocking an immediate opportunity with Baltimore, led Shula to orchestrate a trade for Lurtsema to the New York Giants. Lurtsema always credited Shula for his professional breakthrough, stating, “I owe everything to Shula. He basically set up my whole career. I can’t say enough good things about him.”

With the New York Giants, Lurtsema quickly made an impact, playing the 1967 season and earning a spot on the all-rookie team that year, followed by recognition on the Sporting News All-Star team in 1968. He solidified his position as a regular starter for the Giants through the 1971 season, demonstrating his versatility by transitioning from defensive tackle to defensive end in 1970. Despite his consistent performance, the Giants made the decision to waive him at the close of the 1971 season.

The Minnesota Vikings Era: "Benchwarmer Bob" and Super Bowl Dreams

The year 1972 marked a new chapter for Robert Ross Lurtsema as he was signed by the Minnesota Vikings. During his time with the Vikings, a memorable incident occurred in the third game of the 1972 NFL season. In a critical moment, Lurtsema was flagged for roughing the passer, a penalty that proved pivotal in the game against the Miami Dolphins. This game was especially significant as the Dolphins went on to achieve a perfect, undefeated season – a legendary feat in NFL history. While Lurtsema played regularly for the Vikings, often backing up the legendary "Purple People Eaters" defensive line, he rarely started, earning him the enduring and affectionate nickname "Benchwarmer Bob." Despite his backup role, Lurtsema was an integral part of the Vikings teams that reached Super Bowl VIII in 1974 and Super Bowl IX in 1975, though both unfortunately ended in losses for Minnesota.

Seattle Seahawks and Retirement

In 1976, Lurtsema moved to the expansion Seattle Seahawks, an exciting opportunity for the newly formed team in their inaugural season. The trade saw him sent to Seattle in exchange for wide receiver Ahmad Rashad. Lurtsema enjoyed two productive seasons with the Seahawks, consistently starting at defensive end. Following the 1977 NFL season, Lurtsema decided to hang up his cleats, concluding a solid professional career with 82 starts under his belt.

Life Beyond the Gridiron: Commercials, Cafes, and Advocacy

Retirement did not mean disappearing from the public eye for Lurtsema. He frequently capitalized on his memorable nickname, appearing as "Benchwarmer Bob" in a series of popular television commercials for TCF Bank (then TCF Savings and Loan), endearing him to a new generation of fans. His post-football endeavors also included pitching for the Minnesota Norsemen professional softball team during their 1979 season in the American Professional Slo-Pitch League (APSPL). He even ventured into entrepreneurship, owning "Benchwarmer Bob's Sports Cafe," which boasted two locations in the vibrant Twin Cities area.

In 2013, Lurtsema bravely joined a significant lawsuit against the NFL concerning concussions sustained during play. He became a passionate advocate, campaigning for funds to be allocated to players impacted by such devastating injuries and for crucial research into brain trauma. Today, Robert Ross Lurtsema and his wife, Aloise, are happily retired and reside in Minnesota, a fitting end to a career that blended athletic prowess with a keen sense of community and advocacy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Robert Ross Lurtsema

Who is Robert Ross Lurtsema?

Robert Ross Lurtsema is a former American professional football player who played as a defensive end in the NFL for the Minnesota Vikings, New York Giants, and Seattle Seahawks.

What teams did Robert Ross Lurtsema play for?

He played for the New York Giants (1967-1971), Minnesota Vikings (1972-1975), and Seattle Seahawks (1976-1977).

What was Robert Ross Lurtsema's nickname?

He was affectionately known as "Benchwarmer Bob," a nickname that also became the basis for his post-football commercial appearances and business ventures.

How many Super Bowls did Robert Ross Lurtsema play in?

He played in two Super Bowls, Super Bowl VIII (1974) and Super Bowl IX (1975), both with the Minnesota Vikings.

What is Robert Ross Lurtsema known for after his NFL career?

After retiring from the NFL, Lurtsema appeared in TCF Bank commercials as "Benchwarmer Bob," owned "Benchwarmer Bob's Sports Cafe," played professional softball, and became an advocate for players in the concussion lawsuit against the NFL.

What was a notable play in Robert Ross Lurtsema's career?

A significant moment involved a roughing the passer penalty against him during a 1972 game where the Miami Dolphins were playing the Vikings, which contributed to the Dolphins achieving their historic undefeated season.