Ernie Davis: The First Overall Pick in the 1962 NFL Draft
Ernie Davis, a talented football player hailing from Syracuse University, etched his name in the annals of football history as the first African American to win the prestigious Heisman Trophy in 1961. His exceptional skills and achievements garnered attention from professional football teams, leading to his selection as the first overall pick in the 1962 NFL Draft. This article delves into the details of Davis’ draft experience and the unfortunate circumstances that cut short his promising career.
The Washington Redskins and the Cleveland Browns
The Washington Redskins held the first pick in the 1962 NFL Draft and chose Ernie Davis as their selection. However, Davis’ time with the Redskins was short-lived. Due to the team owner George Preston Marshall’s reputation for racial discrimination, Davis refused to play for the Redskins and demanded a trade. The Cleveland Browns, led by legendary coach Paul Brown, seized the opportunity and acquired Davis from the Redskins in exchange for Bobby Mitchell and Leroy Jackson, both talented players in their own right.
Drafting by the Buffalo Bills
Interestingly, before being selected by the Washington Redskins, Davis had also been drafted by the Buffalo Bills of the American Football League (AFL) two days earlier. The Bills’ decision to draft Davis in the AFL Draft further underscored his immense talent and potential as a football player.
College Career and Heisman Trophy
Ernie Davis’ rise to prominence began during his college years at Syracuse University. As a standout player for the Syracuse Orange, Davis shattered records previously held by another football legend, Jim Brown, in rushing, all-purpose yardage, scoring, and touchdowns. Davis’ outstanding performances on the field culminated in winning the Heisman Trophy in 1961, solidifying his status as one of the greatest college football players of his time.
The Tragic End
Despite his promising start and high expectations, Ernie Davis’s professional football career was tragically cut short. Before he could step onto the field for his first professional game, Davis was diagnosed with acute monocytic leukemia. This devastating illness dealt a severe blow to his dreams and aspirations. Regrettably, on May 18, 1963, Ernie Davis passed away at the young age of 23, leaving the football world mourning the loss of a remarkable talent.
FAQs
Who drafted Ernie Davis in the 1962 NFL Draft?
Ernie Davis was drafted by the Washington Redskins as the first overall pick in the 1962 NFL Draft.
Why was Ernie Davis traded to the Cleveland Browns?
Ernie Davis was quickly traded to the Cleveland Browns because he refused to play for the Washington Redskins due to the team owner’s reputation for racial discrimination.
Which team drafted Ernie Davis in the American Football League (AFL) draft?
Ernie Davis was also drafted by the Buffalo Bills of the American Football League (AFL) two days before the NFL draft.
Where did Ernie Davis play college football?
Ernie Davis played college football at Syracuse University.
What records did Ernie Davis break at Syracuse University?
Ernie Davis broke Jim Brown’s career records in rushing, all-purpose yardage, scoring, and touchdowns during his time at Syracuse University.
How much did Ernie Davis sign for with the Cleveland Browns?
Ernie Davis signed with the Cleveland Browns for a then-astronomical sum of $80,000.
What cut short Ernie Davis’ professional football career?
Ernie Davis’ professional football career was cut short by his diagnosis of acute monocytic leukemia, a form of cancer.
When did Ernie Davis pass away?
Ernie Davis passed away on May 18, 1963, at the age of 23.