The Chicago Cardinals, one of the oldest franchises in the National Football League (NFL), played a significant role in shaping professional football during the 1920s. As a charter member of the NFL, the Cardinals were part of a vibrant football scene in Chicago, alongside teams like the Decatur Staleys and the Chicago Tigers. This article delves into the Cardinals' early years, highlighting their contributions to the league and the challenges they
faced.
Establishing a Legacy
In 1920, the Chicago Cardinals became a charter member of the American Professional Football Association, which was later renamed the NFL in 1922. The team paid a franchise fee of $100 to join the league, marking the beginning of their long-standing presence in professional football. The Cardinals, along with the Chicago Bears, are the only charter members of the NFL still in existence today. This period was crucial for the Cardinals as they established themselves in a competitive league.
The Cardinals played their games at Comiskey Park, a venue that became synonymous with their early years. The rivalry with the Chicago Bears, initially known as the Decatur Staleys, was born during this time. The two teams played each other twice in 1920, splitting the series with each team winning at home. This rivalry would become one of the most enduring in NFL history, influencing the league's dynamics for decades.
Challenges and Controversies
The 1925 season was particularly controversial for the Cardinals. After losing to the Pottsville Maroons, the Cardinals scheduled two additional games against weaker teams, the Milwaukee Badgers and the Hammond Pros, to improve their record. This move was within the league's rules at the time, but it led to a scandal when it was discovered that high school players had been used in the game against the Badgers.
The league sanctioned the Cardinals, and the championship was not awarded for 1925. Despite the controversy, the Cardinals' owner, Chris O'Brien, refused to accept the title, arguing that his team did not deserve it. This decision reflected the integrity and sportsmanship that O'Brien valued, even in the face of potential glory.
Breaking Barriers
The Chicago Cardinals were pioneers in breaking racial barriers in the NFL during the 1920s. Duke Slater, one of the most outstanding linemen of his era, was among the few African-American players in the league. Slater's presence on the team was significant, as he encouraged the signing of Harold Bradley Sr., the NFL's second black lineman.
Despite the color ban that emerged in the league, Slater continued to play, becoming the only black player in the NFL by 1929. His contributions to the Cardinals and the league were immense, earning him All-Pro status six times. Slater's legacy is a testament to the Cardinals' role in promoting diversity and inclusion in professional football.
