Bob Waterfield

Bob Waterfield (July 26, 1920 – March 25, 1983) was an American football player.

Related Topics:
July 26 - 1920 - March 25 - 1983 - American

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Waterfield began his NFL career with the St. Louis Rams with their 5th pick in 1944 in the NFL Draft. He started immediately and was taken in quickly by fans, becoming the first ever rookie to win the league?s Most Valuable Player and unanimous All-NFL choice. Waterfield ended the season with the NFL Championship game in 1945 where he threw a 37 and 44 yard touchdown pass to beat the Washington Redskins 15-14.

Related Topics:
NFL - St. Louis Rams - NFL Draft - Washington Redskins

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In 1946, the Rams moved to Los Angeles where Waterfield split quarterback jobs with Norm Van Brocklin. The team was led to three straight title games, 1949-1951. The Rams won it all in 1951 with a 24-17 win over the Cleveland Browns in the title game.

Related Topics:
Los Angeles - Norm Van Brocklin - Cleveland Browns

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In a 1948 regular season game, the Rams were behind the to-be-champion Philadelphia Eagles 28-0. Waterfield managed to rally the team for a tie on four very late touchdown passes.

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In the 1950 divisional playoffs, he was unable to practice due to a severe flu he had endured. However, came off the bench anyway and threw three touchdown passes in a 24-14 win over the Chicago Bears.

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In his first four seasons, he intercepted a career total of 20 passes. As a punter, he had a 42.4 yard average. As a place kicker, he had 315 successful PATs and 60 Field Goals.

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Overall, Waterfield was known for his deep throw ability. He led the NFL in passing in the 1946 and 1951 season, ending with career totals of 814 completions, 11,849 yards and 97 touchdowns. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1965 as a Cleveland/LA Ram, and died in March 25, 1983 at the age of 62.

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