Jay Berwanger holds a unique place in NFL history as the first player ever selected in the league's inaugural draft in 1936. Despite this distinction, Berwanger never played a single down in the NFL. His story is one of talent, opportunity, and the choices that led him away from professional football. As the first recipient of the Heisman Trophy, Berwanger's legacy extends beyond the gridiron, offering a glimpse into the early days of the NFL and the challenges
faced by players of that era.
The Heisman Trophy Winner
Before his name was called in the 1936 NFL draft, Jay Berwanger was already a celebrated athlete. He played college football for the University of Chicago, where he earned the nickname "the Flying Dutchman" for his prowess on the field. In 1935, Berwanger became the first recipient of the Downtown Athletic Club Trophy, which was later renamed the Heisman Trophy. This award recognized him as the most valuable player east of the Mississippi, cementing his status as a college football legend.
Berwanger's college career was marked by impressive achievements. He scored 22 touchdowns in 24 games and was known for his versatility, playing both offense and defense. His performance on the field made him a prime candidate for the NFL, and it was no surprise when the Philadelphia Eagles selected him as the first overall pick in the draft.
The Decision Not to Play
Despite being the first player drafted, Jay Berwanger never played in the NFL. The Philadelphia Eagles, unable to meet his salary demands of $1,000 per game, traded his rights to the Chicago Bears. However, negotiations with Bears owner George Halas also fell through, as Berwanger sought a salary of $15,000, while Halas's final offer was $13,500. Ultimately, Berwanger chose not to sign with the Bears, opting instead to preserve his amateur status in hopes of competing in the 1936 Summer Olympics in the decathlon.
After missing the Olympic cut, Berwanger pursued a career outside of football. He took a job with a Chicago rubber company and later became a part-time coach at the University of Chicago. Although he expressed some regret over not accepting Halas's offer, Berwanger's decision reflected the financial realities and personal priorities of athletes during that time.
A Legacy Beyond the NFL
Jay Berwanger's story is a reminder of the early challenges faced by professional football players. In an era when the NFL was still finding its footing, players like Berwanger had to weigh the financial and personal implications of a professional career. His decision not to play in the NFL did not diminish his impact on the sport. As the first Heisman Trophy winner and the first NFL draft pick, Berwanger's legacy is one of pioneering achievement and the complex choices faced by athletes in the early days of professional football.
