Who Drafted Ernie Davis?
Early Life and College Career
Ernie Davis, born on December 14, 1939, in New Salem, Pennsylvania, emerged as a remarkable athlete from a young age. Excelling in baseball, basketball, and football during his grade school years, Davis’s talent and potential were evident. He attended Elmira Free Academy, where he earned two All-American honors, establishing himself as a standout player.
It was at Syracuse University that Davis’s football career reached new heights. Playing for the Syracuse Orangemen from 1959 to 1961, he achieved remarkable success on the field. Davis led the team to a national championship in 1959 and received first-team All-American honors twice, solidifying his position as one of the most exceptional college football players of his time.
The Heisman Trophy and Accolades
In his senior year, Davis made history by becoming the first African American athlete to receive the Heisman Trophy, the prestigious award given to the best player in college football. This groundbreaking achievement shattered racial barriers and highlighted Davis’s exceptional skills and contributions to the sport. Additionally, he won the Walter Camp Memorial Trophy, further solidifying his status as a football legend.
The 1962 NFL Draft and Trade
The 1962 NFL Draft marked a significant moment in Ernie Davis’s football journey. He was drafted by the Washington Redskins as the first overall pick, recognizing his incredible talent and potential. However, Davis’s path took an unexpected turn when the Redskins subsequently traded him to the Cleveland Browns. The Browns had high hopes for Davis, envisioning a dream backfield partnership between him and another legendary player, Jim Brown.
The Tragic Legacy
Despite the anticipation surrounding his professional debut, Davis faced a devastating setback when he was diagnosed with leukemia in 1962. This diagnosis cut short his promising football career and cast a shadow over the hopes and dreams of football fans. Despite receiving treatment, Davis’s health rapidly declined, and he tragically passed away on May 18, 1963, at the young age of 23.
Conclusion
Ernie Davis’s draft journey was marked by high expectations and the promise of a bright future. However, his untimely death prevented him from showcasing his talents in the professional football arena. Nevertheless, his groundbreaking achievements as the first African American Heisman Trophy winner and his enduring legacy as a symbol of hope and excellence in the face of adversity will forever be remembered.
Sources:
- Ernie Davis – Wikipedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ernie_Davis
- Ernie Davis and Jim Brown, Browns’ dream backfield that never was, died on the same date – News-Herald. Retrieved from https://www.news-herald.com/2023/05/23/ernie-davis-and-jim-brown-browns-dream-backfield-that-never-was-died-on-same-date/
- 1962 NFL Draft – Wikipedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1962_NFL_Draft
FAQs
Who drafted Ernie Davis in the 1962 NFL Draft?
Ernie Davis was drafted by the Washington Redskins in the 1962 NFL Draft.
Which team did Ernie Davis eventually end up with?
After being drafted by the Washington Redskins, Ernie Davis was traded to the Cleveland Browns.
What position was Ernie Davis drafted as?
Ernie Davis was drafted as a running back.
Did Ernie Davis ever play in a professional game?
No, unfortunately, Ernie Davis never had the opportunity to play in a professional game due to his diagnosis with leukemia.
What were the expectations for Ernie Davis in the NFL?
There were high expectations for Ernie Davis in the NFL, with many envisioning a dynamic backfield partnership between him and Jim Brown for the Cleveland Browns.
What were some of Ernie Davis’s notable achievements in college football?
Ernie Davis achieved notable success in college football, including leading Syracuse University to a national championship in 1959 and becoming the first African American recipient of the Heisman Trophy in his senior year.
What was the significance of Ernie Davis’s draft and subsequent trade?
Ernie Davis’s draft and trade highlighted the anticipation and excitement surrounding his professional career. The trade to the Cleveland Browns was seen as a promising opportunity for him to join forces with Jim Brown and create a formidable backfield duo.
When and how did Ernie Davis’s football career come to an end?
Ernie Davis’s football career came to an abrupt end when he was diagnosed with leukemia in 1962. Despite receiving treatment, he tragically passed away on May 18, 1963, at the age of 23, before ever playing in a professional game.