Ollie Matson, American sprinter and football player (d. 2011)

Ollie Genoa Matson II, born on May 1, 1930, and passing away on February 19, 2011, was a truly remarkable American athlete whose professional career spanned two distinct yet equally demanding arenas: Olympic track and field, where he earned multiple medals, and the National Football League (NFL), where he carved out a legendary fourteen-year tenure as an exceptional running back. His journey from collegiate star to professional icon left an indelible mark on both sports, showcasing a rare blend of speed, power, and versatility.

A Dual-Threat Phenom: From Collegiate Track Star to NFL Draft Pick

Matson's athletic prowess was evident early on, blossoming during his time at the University of San Francisco. While he dominated on the football field, it was his blistering speed that first garnered international attention. His exceptional talent led him to the 1952 Summer Olympics in Helsinki, Finland, a pivotal moment in his burgeoning career. There, Matson distinguished himself on the global stage, securing a bronze medal in the fiercely competitive 400-meter dash. Not content with individual glory, he also played a crucial role in the United States' 4x400 meter relay team, helping them clinch a silver medal. This Olympic success immediately preceded his professional football career, highlighting an incredibly rare combination of elite-level achievement in two distinct sports.

Following his Olympic triumphs, Matson transitioned seamlessly to professional football, where his athletic gifts were highly coveted. He was drafted into the NFL in 1952 by the Chicago Cardinals, marking the beginning of a storied career that would see him become one of the league's most electrifying players. Known for his powerful running style combined with breakaway speed, Matson quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with, capable of turning any play into a scoring opportunity.

A Career Defined by Excellence and a Historic Trade

Matson spent his initial years in the NFL dazzling fans and frustrating opponents with the Chicago Cardinals. His performances were consistently outstanding, solidifying his reputation as one of the league's premier running backs. However, a significant chapter in his career unfolded after the 1958 season when he was involved in one of the most talked-about and substantial trades in NFL history. Matson was traded from the Chicago Cardinals to the Los Angeles Rams in exchange for an unprecedented nine players. This monumental transaction underscored Matson's immense value and star power within the league, reflecting how highly he was regarded and the profound impact he was expected to have on any team he joined. Such a large exchange of talent for a single player was, and remains, a rarity, cementing his status as a marquee athlete of his era.

His NFL career, which ultimately spanned from 1952 to 1966, also included stints with the Detroit Lions and the Philadelphia Eagles, where he continued to contribute his veteran presence and dynamic playmaking abilities. Throughout these fourteen seasons, Matson consistently performed at an elite level, earning him widespread recognition and admiration.

Legacy and Hall of Fame Induction

Ollie Matson's consistent excellence throughout his career did not go unnoticed. He was a perennial favorite for All-Pro honors and was selected to the prestigious Pro Bowl six times, a testament to his sustained high level of play and impact on the game. His career statistics, combined with his unique dual-sport accomplishments and his influence on the field, cemented his place among football's all-time greats.

In recognition of his extraordinary contributions to professional football, Ollie Matson was deservedly elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1972, an honor that enshrines his legacy for future generations. His induction celebrated not only his remarkable statistics and accolades but also his pioneering spirit as an athlete who excelled on both the track and the gridiron, leaving behind a legacy of versatility, power, and speed that few have ever matched.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ollie Matson

What sports did Ollie Matson excel in?

Ollie Matson was an exceptional athlete who excelled in both track and field (sprinting) and professional American football.

What was his Olympic achievement?

At the 1952 Summer Olympics in Helsinki, Finland, Matson won a bronze medal in the 400-meter dash and a silver medal as part of the United States' 4x400 meter relay team.

Which NFL teams did Ollie Matson play for?

Ollie Matson played for the Chicago Cardinals, the Los Angeles Rams, the Detroit Lions, and the Philadelphia Eagles during his NFL career.

What was the significance of the 9-player trade involving Matson?

Following the 1958 season, Matson was traded from the Chicago Cardinals to the Los Angeles Rams in exchange for nine players. This historic trade underscored his immense value and star power, as it remains one of the largest player exchanges for a single athlete in NFL history.

When was Ollie Matson inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame?

Ollie Matson was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1972, recognizing his outstanding career in the National Football League.