1976 Rookie Profile: John Thomas

Running Back
10th Round
Valley City State (North Dakota)
"A product of schoolboy athletics in Philadelphia, Thomas has turned out to be a highly versatile all-around athlete at Valley City State College in North Dakota. In three seasons there, the 6-3, 200-pounder has played at defensive back, wide receiver and running back, as well as being a punt and kickoff return specialist ... and he did all of those things extremely well.
He's just as versatile in track where he runs the 100, 220, is on the 440-yard relay team and also runs the 120-yard hurdles. He's been timed at 4.7 for the 40, 9.7 for the 100, and with this type of speed and size could prove to be a candidate for return work with the Giants. Pro scouts who saw Thomas in action his past season rated him as easily the best running back in his conference, blessed with great natural abilities in the areas quickness, instincts and overall capabilities.
John was born in Philadelphia and was a three-sport standout at Simon Gratz High School. He still lives in Philadelphia."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Free Agent Profile: John Jordan

Defensive Tackle
8th Round
Indiana
"Here's a prospect from Indiana University via semi-pro football, the Memphis Southmen of the WFL, and the recommendation of Giants assistant coach Jay Fry. Jordan played at Indiana University for two years, then dropped out of school in 1974 and played that year with the semi-pro Indianapolis team. From that league, Jordan's next stop was with Memphis where he began the year as a swingman and part-time starter at defensive tackle. His rapid improvement there resulted in his winning a starting spot for the final six games of the season, and thus the lasting impression made on Coach Fry who believes that Jordan has unlimited potential.
Jordan was born in Indianapolis, is 23 years old and is married. He still makes Indianapolis his home."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Rookie Profile: Dan Lloyd

Linebacker
6th Round
Washington
"With this draft choice, obtained from New England, the Giants tapped Washington's All-Pac 8 linebacker Dan Lloyd, a rugged 225-ponder with a background as a California state wrestling champion. Lloyd was a starter for each of his three seasons with the Huskies and earned his initial recognition in 1974 as a junior when he was third [on the team] in tackles and was picked for the All-Pac 8 third team.
In his senior season last year, Lloyd's contributions escalated, despite the fact that a series of nagging injuries sidelined him for three games and hampered him in others. The wide-ranging linebacker still finished the year with 129 tackles, again the third best total on the club, and this time made the All-Pac 8 first team at season's end. He was additionally voted the Pac 8's Linebacker of the Week for his performance against the University of California; he had an interception for a 27-yard return in that game against the Bears. Lloyd was also selected to play in the Hula Bowl, but bowed out because of the injuries which happened in the final games.
Born in Hebner, Utah, Dan starred at Hames Lick High School in San Jose (CA), making the high school All-American teams in both football and wrestling. He majored in art education at Washington."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Rookie Profile: Mel Wilson

Defensive Back
5th Round
Cal State-Northridge
"Rated highly for his potential by the Giants' West Coast scouts, 23-year-old Mel Wilson has the distinction of having won All-California Collegiate Athletic Association honors as both a linebacker and a defensive safety. Wilson earned four varsity letters in football, and in addition to linebacker and free safety played defensive end and running back early in his career.
A product of San Fernando High School where he was a teammate of Anthony Davis, Mel was also an outstanding basketball player and his agility and jumping ability contributed greatly to his play at free safety.
He had nine interceptions in his final two seasons, returning one 85 yards for a touchdown. Team captain and extremely active as a leader on campus, Mel has 4.6 speed in the 40 and also received fine gradings from the pro scouts for his hitting ability. The Giants plan to look at him as both a corner and a strong safety possibility.
Mel was born in Pacoima, California and still resides in his hometown."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Rookie Profile: Harry Carson

Middle Linebacker
4th Round
South Carolina State
"A four-year player at South Carolina State who never missed a game, Carson is called 'one of the greatest players I've ever coached' by South Carolina State head man Willie Jeffries ... and Jeffries is quick to add that he has also coached Elvin Bethea of Houston and Barney Chavous of Denver.
Carson was a defensive lineman in those years, led the team in tackles as a soph with 92, and in his junior and senior years was the MVP of the Mid-East Conference, won Little All-American honors from the AP and was named first team Black All-American by the Mutual Black Network. This past season Harry was nearly invincible- he had 114 solo tackles, 41 assists and 30 quarterback sacks! Born in Florence, South Carolina, he starred at McClenaghan High School there before his move on to South Carolina State.
Because of his great speed for a big man (4.8 in the 40), the Giants have projected Carson as a linebacker and will try him both in the middle and on the outside when he gets to training camp. Carson also got top ratings for his leadership abilities at SCS and can be of additional value as a special teams player."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Rookie Profile: Gordon Bell

Running Back
4th Round
Michigan
"He made the All-American teams at Michigan both as a football player and a wrestler. He grew up in Troy, Ohio, still lives there, and enjoys fishing and reading."

-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1976

"Using the choice obtained from San Francisco in the 4th round of the draft, the Giants selected Michigan's All-American running Gordon Bell, a perpetual motion runner who averaged 122 yards rushing per game in 1975 en route to a 1,335-yard season. This sort of production won him Associated Press All-American honors, as well as first team All-Big 10 by both AP and UPI and an eighth-place finish in the Heisman Trophy balloting. Gordon's 1,335 rushing yards also ranked as the eighth-best total in the country in 1975.
While his senior year was an exceptional one, Gordon enjoyed fine seasons as well as both a sophomore and junior at Michigan. As a swingman tailback in 1973, he averaged 5.2 per carry on 475 yards on 88 attempts, then won All-Big 10 second team accolades in 1974 when he carried 174 times for 1,072 yards and a sparkling 6.0 average per trip. Gordon's three-year rushing total comes to 2,882 yards and he scored 28 touchdowns over that span. In addition to his postseason bowl game appearances, he was also a member of the group that participated in the Japan Bowl.
Gordon Bell was born in Troy, Ohio and still resides in his hometown. A business administration major at Michigan, he lists fishing and reading as his principal hobbies. Gordon should prove to have special value to the Giants since he is also a highly capable kickoff and punt return specialist."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Rookie Profile: Troy Archer

Defensive End
1st Round
Colorado
"Out of Whittier, California, Troy made most of the All-American teams while starring for Colorado. A bachelor, he says his favorite hobby is handball."

-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1976

"Archer is a swift and versatile defensive lineman who earned considerable honors in his two varsity years at Colorado University after his transfer from Rio Hondo Junior College. In his two years at Colorado, he had 154 unassisted tackles and was named Most Valuable Lineman in both 1974 and 1975.
In his senior season, Troy had 83 solo tackles, including 12 quarterback sacks. He was named the Big 8 Conference Defensive Player of the Week for his efforts in a victory over Missouri, when he had 31 tackles, and was named to the All-Big 8 teams of both UPI and AP.
He was also outstanding in the Bluebonnet Bowl this past season against Texas after Colorado went to that Bowl game following a fine 9-2 season. Troy caught the eyes of pro scouts, and Giant coach Bill Arsnparger, for his efforts in this past year's Senior Bowl.
Troy played his high school football at California High School in Whittier, CA. The Colorado coaching staff rates him as a young man with tremendous potential and rate his toughness and competitive instincts as exemplary. Troy still resides in Whitter and lists handball as his favorite hobby."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Willie Young

Offensive Tackle
No. 69
Grambling
"Signed as a free agent in 1966 by the Giants, Willie has been the starting left tackle for the Giants for the past eight seasons. Called 'Sugar Bear' by his teammates, he was originally a defensive tackle in his rookie year, then made the move to offense the following year as a reserve and won a starting job in 1968.
Not tall for an offensive tackle, Young makes up for that with quickness and great strength and 100% desire. He has also racked up some stats as a tackle, including two kickoff returns for six yards ... three rushing attempts on laterals for two yards ... and has caught two passes, one for eight yards and one for minus-five!
Young earned three letters at Grambling as an offensive guard, winning MVP honors in his senior year and All-American NAIA mention as well. He also played in the Pecan Bowl and when he wasn't playing football, he sang as a bass in the Grambling choir.
Willie Lull Young was born in Ruston, Louisiana into a family of eight children. His father, Reverend James Young, is a minister in Ruston. Willie spends the off-seasons as a guidance counselor at Grambling."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Elmo Wright

Wide Receiver
No. 83
Houston
"The No. 1 draft pick of the Kansas City Chiefs in 1971 after a stellar career at the University of Houston where he was a unanimous All-American and held NCAA career records for catches (34) and average-per-catch (21.9), Wright signed as a free agent with the Giants this past off-season. He played out his option with Kansas City [at the end of the 1974 season], and subsequent stops in 1975 were at New England and Houston.
Elmo had a big rookie year in 1971, winning Chiefs' MVP Rookie honors after grabbing 26 passes for 528 yards, a 20.2 average and three touchdowns. He had 66 catches for 1,070 yards in four seasons with KC despite being slowed by a succession of injuries in his final three years. He also rushed 10 times for 69 yards and a touchdown.
Called by many observers 'the best wide receiver in the U.S.' during his senior year at Houston, Wright was a first-team All-American on five teams that year- AP, Sporting News, FWAA, Football News and NEA- and followed that by being a first round draft pick.
Elmo Wright was born in Brazoria, Texas and achieved stardom in several sports at Sweeney High School in his hometown before entering the University of Houston. An accomplished saxophone player, Elmo resides during the off-season in Houston where he works in real estate."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Bill Windauer

Defensive Tackle
No. 72
Iowa
"An 8th round draft choice of the Baltimore Colts in 1973, Bill came to the Giants last year after being released by the Colts and got into the last four games of the season. With the Colts, he was a starting defensive tackle for five games in 1974, then suffered a broken thumb and was sidelined for several games thereafter. Windauer had a quarterback sack while a starter.
Windauer was a three-year performer at Iowa as a defensive lineman, the first season as the middle guard and the last two as a defensive tackle. He sat out one season with an ankle injury, but came back strongly in his final year to win conference mentions and was named to play in the Blue-Grey Game.
William Joseph Windauer was born in Chicago and was a highly versatile athlete at Mendel Catholic High School in the Windy City, starring in football and as a heavyweight wrestling champion and member of a state championship two-mile relay team. Bill resides in Iowa City during the off-season."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Marsh White

Running Back
No. 24
Arkansas
"White was a 12th round pick last year, going that late primarily because of a collegiate career marred by a series of nagging injuries. As a rookie he improved steadily throughout the season, getting into all 14 games and proving to be a fine hitter and performer on all of the special team duties. He also managed to see extensive duty in the backfield as a reserve and enjoyed a solid afternoon in the 26-23 win over San Francisco when he carried 12 times for 69 yards and scored a touchdown. All told, White had 90 yards on 17 carries for a team-leading 5.3 average and also caught three passes for 15 yards. He's got good speed and could well be a contender for a starting berth in '76.
Hampered by injuries in each of his three seasons at Arkansas, Marsh nonetheless had some fine days as a collegian, including 64 yards in eight carries against USC and 78 in 11 trips against Texas Tech. He was an All-SWC choice as a soph when he rushed 80 times for 340 yards after a fine freshman season when he scored 10 touchdowns.
Marsh R. White was born in Bonham, Texas and starred at Bonham High School in his hometown. He is a cousin of Cincinnati Redleg Joe Morgan."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Mike Wells

Quarterback
No. 17
Illinois
"Mike came to the Giants from the Minnesota Vikings as a free agent just prior to the start of the regular season after spending two seasons there- one on the taxi squad and the next on injured reserve after he was kayoed by a knee injury which required surgery. Just prior to that injury, Mike had started at quarterback against Miami in a preseason game and had completed 7-of-8 passes for 56 yards and had rushed five times for 37 yards.
He was a standout quarterback and runner at Illinois, winning three letters there and gaining All-Big 10 honors in 1972. Mike set school records for passing yardage and total offense that season. He majored in geography and made the All-Academic team.
Mike Wells was born in Normal, Illinois where he was an all-around athlete. He still resides in his hometown."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Larry Watkins

Running Back
No. 36
Alcorn A & M
"The Giants obtained Watkins for a draft choice from the Buffalo Bills after the [1974] season. He became a valuable running back all through last season, finishing as the club's top per-average rusher with a 4.5 mark, with 303 yards on 68 carries. His best days were against the Cardinals and the Chargers, with 85 yards rushing against the former (all in the first half) and 75 against the latter.
Originally signed as a free agent by Detroit in 1969, Larry played one season there and was traded to Philadelphia in 1970. After three seasons as a reserve, he was traded to Buffalo and became a starter with O.J. Simpson in 1973, carrying 98 times for 414 yards, a 4.2 average and two touchdowns. Larry had 105 yards rushing on 18 carries in the season opener against New England, then proved to be a fine blocker that year as O.J. had his 2,000-yard season. His career totals show 1,241 rushing for a 3.7 average and eight touchdowns, with 41 pass receptions.
Watkins was a three-year letterman at Alcorn A & M and was named co-captain in his senior year. He also played in the Orange Bowl that year.
Lawrence Watkins was born in Bessemer, Alabama and played his high school sports at J.S. Abrams High in Bessemer. He now lives in Camden, New Jersey and has taught in the Camden school system during the off-seasons."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Brad Van Pelt

Linebacker
No. 10
Michigan State
"He pulled down three interceptions last season, high for a linebacker. An All-American at Michigan, he won the Maxwell Trophy. The St. Louis Cardinals wanted to sign him as pitcher, but he turned to pro football, where his career has been nagged by injuries."

-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1976

"The No. 2 draft choice of the Giants in 1973 after an All-American career at Michigan State, Brad was plagued by nagging injuries all through his rookie year and consequently appeared in only five games. Initially, he reported to training camp with a foot injury, and after overcoming that problem suffered a series of deep groin pulls which inhibited his progress.
In 1974, Brad was strictly a linebacker after those earlier trials at defensive back, linebacker and tight end and won a starting job at the weak side. He did a fine job, coming up with two interceptions for 22 yards, and also recovered two fumbles. He missed several games with injuries, but his progress was solid.
Then last year, working at the strong side, Brad hit his peak. Playing all 14 games, he rated solidly not only against the run but in his range on pass coverage. He upped his interceptions total to three, recovered a fumble and blocked two field goal attempts. Brad's potential is unlimited. He can also kick off and is a solid special teams player, too.
A unanimous All-American in college where he was a monster man defensive back, Brad also won the Maxwell Trophy his senior year. He had 14 career interceptions and returned two for touchdowns, kicked off, and had 84 tackles his senior year. He also lettered in basketball and in baseball and had a big bonus offer in baseball from the St. Louis Cardinals as a pitcher.
Brad Alan Van Pelt was born in Owosso, Michigan and played all sports at Owosso High School before heading to Michigan State. He raises St. Bernard puppies and is a fine cribbage player. He still lives in his hometown during the off-seasons."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Doug Van Horn

Offensive Tackle
No. 63
Ohio State
"Van Horn was the No. 4 draft choice of the Detroit Lions in 1966, went into the Army the following year and rejoined the Lions in 1968, only to be released in training camp. Doug came to the Giants as a free agent and played that season in the Atlantic Coast League. He returned the following year to win a starting job at guard and has been a first-stringer ever since.
Nicknamed 'Reggie,' he had a stellar season in 1972 when the Giants led the NFL in total offense and allowed the fewest quarterback sacks in the league as well. After five years as the starting right guard, Van Horn moved to right tackle in 1974 and had another solid campaign.
He continued as the starting right tackle in 1975, again going all 14 games, and continued to be a leader on the field. Doug was particularly effective in the big win over Buffalo, not only in his pass blocking and on the run, but by the way he fired up the club in the final winning drive. He also serves as offensive co-captain of the club and is the team's player representative.
Van Horn was one of Woody Hayes' top players in the 1960s, earning three letters with the Buckeyes as an offensive lineman and winning All-Big 10 honors twice as well as being named to the AP, UPI and Coaches' All-American teams in 1965.
Douglas Van Horn was born in Sedalia, Ohio and majored in marketing at Ohio State. He works as a stockbroker in the off-season with Stone-Webster in Columbus."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Bob Tucker

Tight End
No. 38
Bloomsburg State
"The Giants signed Tucker as a free agent in 1970 and he immediately beat out Aaron Thomas as the starting tight end. Bob caught 40 passes for 571 yards and five touchdowns that year and came very close to winning the NFL's Rookie of the Year award. In 1971, he became the first tight end in NFL history to take a receiving title when he caught 59 for 791 [yards] and four touchdowns. Additionally, he was the first Giant end to earn an individual [receiving] title since 1935, when Tod Goodwin led the league.
Tucker came back with another great season in 1972, winning All-NFL honors for the first time, grabbing 55 passes for 764 yards. In 1973, he again led the club with 50 catches to move past the 200 mark and added five more touchdowns, and in 1974 finished second on the club with 41 grabs.
He was again second in that department in 1975, grabbing 34 for 484 yards despite missing one game with an injury. Bob's big day was against the Saints when he had seven for 80 yards before being kayoed in the fourth period. His long gainer of the year was a dazzling 47-yard touchdown run with a screen pass against San Diego.
He also holds the club record of catching passes in 45 straight games. Big, strong and a great runner, Bob had trials with the Eagles and Patriots and spent two seasons in the minor leagues with Lowell, Mass. and Pottstown, PA.
Bob set three NAIA records with Bloomsburg State in 1967- most receptions, highest single game yardage and most yardage in a season. As a two-way end he was named to the Little All-America team in 1967 but, strangely, no pro club took him in the draft.
Robert Tucker was born in Hazelton, Pennsylvania and is of Tyrolean-Polish descent. His father is a construction foreman in Wilkes-Barre, PA. Bob was a top student in college and earned a degree in biology. He represents Walsh & Walsh Insurance Co. in between football seasons."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Carl Summerell

Quarterback
No.19
East Carolina
"A No. 4 draft choice of the Giants in 1974, Carl got in valuable time during the preseason games where he displayed good poise and a strong arm. He appeared in seven regular season games, mostly on special teams, but had one long workout at quarterback against the Redskins and was 6-for-12 for 59 yards in a second half appearance; he also rushed for eight yards in that game. Last year, Carl saw action at quarterback three times in relief of Craig Morton against the Redskins, Packers and Saints and was 7-for-16 passing for 98 yards, including a 41-yarder against the Packers.
Summerell led East Carolina to two straight Southern Conference titles and set a college total offense mark with 1,700 yards in his junior year, 425 rushing and 1,275 passing. He had 82 completions for 1,222 yards and 11 touchdowns in his senior season and rushed 80 times for 351 yards and seven more touchdowns.
Carl Leigh Summerell was born in Norfolk, Virginia, and as a youngster was a top Little League player. He starred in football and baseball at Kellam High School in Virginia Beach. He's an avid golfer."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Henry Stuckey

Cornerback
No. 48
Missouri
"Stuckey came to the Giants from the Miami Dolphins for a fifth round draft choice in 1974. He moved right into a starting spot at the corner in the preseason and did a topnotch job, getting a 28-yard interception against the Jets and playing the corner with finesse. He kept that pace up through the early part of the regular season until he went down with a knee injury in the fourth game of the year, was operated on and sat out the remainder of the schedule. He's worked out through the off-season and should be ready to reclaim his job.
Originally a No. 8 draft choice of the Detroit Lions, Stuckey went to Miami as a free agent in 1972 and made his first pro appearance in that year's Super Bowl when he was activated after an injury to Tim Foley. He played in two Super Bowls with the Dolphins as a special team man, and during his two seasons as a reserve defensive back, had two interceptions for 31 yards returned.
Henry began his collegiate career at Merritt Junior College in California, then moved on to Missouri where he had eight interceptions in two varsity campaigns there. He was an All-American J.C. pick in 1969.
Henry Stuckey was born in Oakland, California and grew up in the Bay area where he was All-State at Oakland Prep. He now lives in Miami during the off-season. He worked on the Giants' Speakers Bureau this past off-season."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Jim Steinke

Cornerback
No. 20
Southwest Texas State
"Steinke came to the Giants on waivers from the Cleveland Browns in 1974 just prior to the opening of the regular season and appeared in 13 games for the Giants as a cornerback and special team player. He started at right corner throughout the second half of the season and proved he was capable of getting the job done. On special teams, he was in on two blocked field goals during the season, including one against the Jets in the final seconds which sent that game into overtime.
Last year, Jim got into 14 games as a starter at either the corner or free safety and performed extremely well. In one game he had two interceptions on Roger Staubach and the Cowboys for 41 yards returned, and was again a special team leader, getting two blocked punts on the year- against St. Louis and New Orleans. Originally a No. 2 draft choice of the Browns, Jim played the 1973 season with Cleveland, chiefly as a special team player.
Jim won three letters as a cornerback in college, winning All-Conference honors twice as well as Little All-American honors his senior year. He played in the Senior Bowl and the Coaches' All-American Game, and also won two letters in track as a sprinter.
James L. Steinke was born in Houston, Texas and grew up in Johnson City where his father, Harold, was the communications director at the LBJ Ranch for President Johnson. Jim starred at Lyndon B. Johnson High School there. His uncle, Gil Steinke, coached at Texas A & I."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Bonnie Sloan

Defensive End
No. 92
Austin Peay
"Sloan was a No. 10 draft choice of the St. Louis Cardinals in 1973 and won himself a spot at defensive tackle where he opened the season as a starter and played seven games before knee injuries and leg ailments put him on the sidelines. Released the following season, he had a trial with New Orleans in 1975 before his release there, and was signed as a free agent by the Giants during this past off-season. Totally deaf, Bonnie is an expert lip-reader and utilizes other means of communications while playing. He'll get a trial at defensive end with the Giants.
Twice an All-Conference selection at Austin Peay, Sloan was additionally named to the Little All-American honorable mention list both seasons and was his team's MVP in his senior year.
Bonnie Ryan Sloan was born in Lebanon, Tennessee and was both a football and track standout at Isaac Litton High School in Nashville. He now makes his home in Madison, Tennessee."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Al Simpson

Offensive Tackle
No. 79
Colorado State
"Big Al was the Giants' No. 2 draft selection in 1975 and saw extensive duty during his rookie campaign, mostly with special teams units. He did get into action frequently throughout the year at left offensive tackle and also played some at guard when injuries depleted the offensive unit. Simpson was a hard worker all year long, as attested to by his slicing his collegiate weight of 270 down to 250 for his initial NFL season.
He began his collegiate career at McCook Junior College in Nebraska before moving to Colorado State, initially as a defensive tackle, then as an offensive tackle. Simpson's prowess there earned him second-team NEA All-American honors as well as MVP, Offense, at Colorado State his senior year. That year Colorado State ranked No. 1 in the country in passing offense, a tribute to the pass blocking on that team. Simpson also won a spot in the East-West Shrine Game his senior season.
Allen Ralph Simpson, Jr. was born in Pittsburgh. He played high school football and was a shot-putter at both Westinghouse High School and Wilkinsburg High School in Pittsburgh."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Dave Simonson

Offensive Tackle
No. 67
Minnesota
"Dave was a No. 12 selection of the Baltimore Colts in 1974 and played 13 games with the Colts as a rookie. He came to the Giants last year after being released by the Colts and saw some action late in the campaign, both on special teams and as a reserve tackle. He has fine potential with good size to go with that potential.
A three-year letterman at Minnesota, Dave was a dependable player who improved yearly. His versatility in athletics was best exemplified by the fact that he was also an outstanding wrestler, finishing second in the 1973 Big 10 wrestling championships in the heavyweight division.
David Arnold Simonson was born in Austin, Minnesota and was an all-around high school athlete at Austin Central High School. He still resides in his hometown during the off-seasons."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Andy Selfridge

Linebacker
No. 57
Virginia
"Selfridge came to the Giants prior the 1974 season as a free agent and won himself a job in training camp with his fine performance. He appeared in all 14 regular season games as an outside linebacker, with half of those games as a starter. Andy had an interception against Atlanta, recorded two quarterback sacks and had two fumble recoveries as well, and did a fine job on the special teams.
In 1975, Selfridge continued to be a bulwark on all of the special team units and saw frequent action as the fourth linebacker in certain defenses. He had a blocked punt against the Colts, and made some big stops on the Bills on goal line stands in the 17-14 Monday Night upset over his former team. He was originally drafted No. 13 by San Diego in 1972, then went to the Buffalo Bills that year and spent two seasons in Buffalo before the Giants obtained him.
Andy was a defensive tackle at Virginia and won All-Atlantic Coast honors two years in succession. He also played in the All-American Bowl. He earned a B.A. degree in economics and a Master's degree in education.
Andrew Paul Selfridge was born in Cleveland, Ohio and played his high school athletics at Gilmour Academy in Gates Mills, Ohio. He spent the off-season in New York working for the National Alliance of Businessmen after having been a member of the Giants' Speakers Bureau during the previous year. Andy is planning on a career in government after his playing days."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Bob Schmit

Middle Linebacker
No. 59
Nebraska
"The Giants obtained Schmit as a free agent prior to 1975 training camp on the advice of linebacker coach Marty Schottenheimer who had coached Bob at Portland of the WFL. Schmit was considered one of the top middle linebackers in the WFL during the 1974 season, leading Portland in tackles. When he became a free agent, several NFL teams contacted him and offered contracts. Bob enjoyed a solid preseason, coming up with an interception and a 44-yard return in a win over San Diego, then proved valuable as a reserve in the regular season and as a hitter on special teams.
Schmit played for two seasons at Nebraska as a linebacker. He was chiefly a reserve on those Cornhusker teams, and was subsequently not drafted by an NFL team. Bob signed with Portland where, given an opportunity to play regularly, he developed into an outstanding player.
Robert Steven Schmit was born in Astroria, New York but grew up in famed Boystown, Nebraska where he excelled at all sports. After his graduation from Boystown High School, he moved on to the University of Nebraska. His favorite form of entertainment is music and his major hobby is old and antique cars."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Ray Rhodes

Wide Receiver
No. 82
Tulsa
"Rhodes was the 10th round draft pick of the Giants and proved to be a valuable utility man with versatility. The swift youngster was a reserve wide receiver, catching nine passes for 138 yards and a 15.3 average and also led the club in punt returns with 10 for 124 yards, including a 40-yarder which set up a touchdown against Kansas City. Ray also had a kickoff return for 27 yards and blocked a punt against the Eagles on special team duty. He played in all 14 games and showed fine promise.
Last year, Ray won a starting job at wide receiver in competition against vets Bob Grim and Don Herrmann and proved to be as dangerous as any wide receiver in the division. All told, he had 26 catches for 537 yards, and his 20.7 yards-per-catch average was the best in the entire NFL. His six touchdown catches led the Giants in that department.
Ray specializes in circus catches, making any number of near-impossible receptions, and he also becomes a threat after he catches the ball, with wicked moves and good speed and running ability. He's one of the hardest workers on the squad.
He began his collegiate career at TCU as a running back, showing 786 yards on 176 carries for a 4.9 average, then transferred to Tulsa where he was a wide receiver and a teammate of Drew Pearson of the Cowboys. Rhodes had 43 catches in two seasons for five touchdowns and averaged 26.1 on kickoff returns. He also earned two letters in track.
Raymond Rhodes was born in Mexia, Texas and played football, basketball and ran track at Mexia High School. He now lives in Dallas."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Clyde Powers

Strong Safety
No. 29
Oklahoma
"The No. 5 draft choice of the Giants in 1974, Powers won himself a spot on the club with fine work during the preseason. He played in all 14 regular season games as a strong safety and special team man and showed versatility and potential. Clyde started at strong safety in seven games and proved to be a fine hitter.
Last year, he moved into the starting job at strong safety and had himself a big season. Clyde was among the league leaders in tackles, covered extremely well and had three interceptions, including a big one in the win over Buffalo on Monday Night. He also continued to exhibit top work on special teams and looms as a potential All-Pro, whether it be at strong or weak safety.
A three-year letterman at Oklahoma, Powers was an All-Big Eight selection in his senior year and was picked to play in both the Senior Bowl and the Blue-Grey postseason games. He had eight interceptions in his collegiate career, including two touchdown returns against Kansas and Clemson.
Clyde Powers was born in Pascagoula, Mississippi. He grew up in Lawton, Oklahoma, where his father was stationed in the Army, and was a three-sport standout at Lawton High School. He lists fishing and bowling as his favorite hobbies."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Jim Pietrzak

Defensive Tackle
No. 76
Eastern Michigan
"Big Jim was the No. 6 draft choice of the Giants in 1974 and turned out to be a versatile young man. He worked at offensive tackle through the preseason, then moved to defensive tackle in the regular season, playing all 14 games as a special team man and starting a half-dozen at tackle, as well as snapping for punts on occasion. Jim tied for the team lead in enemy fumble recoveries with two.
In 1975, Big Jim was in all 14 games again and saw frequent action as a starting defensive tackle. He had several solid performances, and in his best showing, sacked the quarterback twice and blocked a point-after-touchdown attempt in the 26-23 win over the 49ers to win a game ball for his efforts. A really hard worker, he is loaded with potential.
Pietrzak (pronounced 'Peter-Zak') played center, guard and tackle during his three seasons at Eastern Michigan, winning College Division All-American honors by Kodak, AP and the Football News. The big guy also won varsity letters in in wrestling and in track as a weight thrower. He was vice-president of the Alpha Phi Omega fraternity and majored in marketing research.
James Michael Pietrazk was born in Hamtramck, Michigan and was a three-sport star at University of Detroit High School in Detroit. He plays the guitar and aspires to a career in public relations."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Jim Obradovich

Tight End
No. 89
USC
"The 7th round choice last year, Obradovich earned his spurs in fine fashion during his rookie season, appearing in all 14 games, both as a member of the special teams and as the backup tight end in all short yardage situations. Nicknamed both 'O.B.' and 'Buffy,' Obradovich had one start- against the 49ers- and responded with four receptions for 52 yards. All told, Jim had seven receptions on the season for 65 yards and a touchdown against the Redskins.
A solid blocker, he has good hands and is a tough competitor. Those qualities stood out in all of his activity with the special teams.
O.B. began his collegiate career at El Camino Junior College, winning All-American Junior College honors before entering USC where he started for two seasons. He was named All-Pac 8 and caught the winning touchdown pass in the Rose Bowl win over Ohio State. Jim also won offensive MVP honors in the Senior Bowl and was named to the East-West Bowl.
James Robert Obradovich was born in Los Angeles and was a standout athlete at El Segundo (CA) High School. He still resides in the Golden State during the off-season."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Tom Mullen

Guard
No. 73
Southwest Missouri State
"The No. 2 draft choice of the Giants in 1974 but not as heralded an arrival as John Hicks, Mullen nonetheless proved to be a stellar addition to the club. Like Hicks, he stepped right into the starting lineup, at left guard, and performed with distinction. Despite the fact he missed three games with a shoulder separation, by season's end he was also named to the All-NFL Rookie team by UPI, Pro Football Weekly and the Pro Football Writer's Association, giving the Giants both guard positions on those rookie teams.
Nicknamed 'Moon' for obvious reasons, Mullen proved to be an outstanding pass blocker, perhaps as fine a pass blocker one year removed from college as the Giants have ever had. Like Hicks, he has the potential to become an All-Pro at his position.
He continued his topflight work in 1975 at both left guard and left tackle but again was hampered by that shoulder injury and missed several games. When he was healthy, he was a bulwark. During the off-season Tom underwent successful surgery on his bothersome shoulder problem, then suffered a bicep rupture ... but should be ready in plenty of time for the opening gong.
Tom earned four letters at Southwest Missouri State as a tackle, and his honors included All-Conference twice, honorable mention All-American twice and team MVP and captain in his senior campaign.
Thomas Patrick Mullen was born in St. Louis and played his high school sports at Vianney High School in Kirkwood, Missouri. Moon lists swimming and water skiing as his favorite hobbies, as well as golf and tennis."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Craig Morton

Quarterback
No. 15
California
"Now 33, he steered Dallas to the Super Bowl in 1971, but he has always been suspect as a quarterback. Can he win the big ones? Last year he ranked eighth in the NFC in passing. A bachelor, he owns a Dallas restaurant and enjoys the skiing life at Aspen."

-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1976

"Morton came to the Giants from Dallas for a No. 1 draft choice just before the trading deadline in 1974 and moved right in as the No. 1 quarterback. In fact, with just three days work, he played the following Sunday against the Cowboys in relief of Jim Del Gaizo, then started the remaining games. Morton's presence improved the offense considerably.
The Giants scored but 68 points in the first seven games of the year, then increased production to 127 for the final seven with Morton doing the orchestration. By season's end, he had completed 122 of 237 passes for 1,510 yards and nine touchdowns for the Giants and enjoyed several outstanding afternoons. Craig had 21 completions for 259 yards against the Cardinals and was 21-for-32 against the Jets.
In 1975, despite an offensive line which was hit by a series of injuries, and the lack of a really outstanding running attack, Craig led the club to five wins, and along the way had 186 completions for 2,359 yards and 11 touchdowns, the last of which was his 100th career touchdown. He had a great night in a 17-14 win over the undefeated Bills with 15-for-21 for 220 yards. A good, solid leader, he should be primed for a top year with a full season [with the Giants] behind him and the addition of some muscle in the rush attack via the signing of Larry Csonka.
He originally was a No. 1 draft choice of Dallas in 1965 and spent 10 years with the Cowboys, several of those seasons as the No. 1 quarterback, including taking the club to a Super Bowl. He had a banner year in 1972 with a club record 185 completions for 2,396 yards and 15 touchdowns.
Morton was an All-American quarterback at California, starring for three seasons and setting records in the process. A teammate in the backfield was Mike Epstein, later a major league baseball player. Morton was also a top baseball player at Cal, turning down a baseball bonus offer to join the Cowboys.
Craig L. Morton was born in Flint, Michigan and was raised in Campbell, California, where he was an All-State high school star in football, baseball and basketball. A bachelor, he spends time skiing in Aspen during the off-season."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: John Mendenhall

Defensive Tackle
No. 64
Grambling
"The Giants' No. 3 draft choice in 1972, Mendenhall has had an awesome career with the Giants, finally winning due recognition in 1974 when he was named to UPI's All-NFC team and to the Pro Football Writers' All-NFL second unit.
Mendy missed one game with a knee injury, but in the other 13 was as good a defensive tackle as anyone, coming up with 11 quarterback sacks, fumble recoveries, blocked passes and general mayhem against opposing teams. He combines great strength with quickness and agility and usually requires double-teaming. One play against Dallas typified his overall abilities- he knocked down two blockers, got to Calvin Hill and dumped him for an eight-yard loss so hard that Calvin fumbled, with Roy Hilton picking up the fumble to go 71 yards for a touchdown ... and Mendy getting up after the tackle to throw a block to help spring Hilton loose.
Last year, Mendy was again off to a super start through a 4-2 preseason slate, sacking quarterbacks and even getting an interception against the Steelers. Then, in the season opener, he injured an ankle and was hobbled for the rest of the year despite his efforts to play on one good ankle. He finally went on the injured list for the final three games, and missed five games overall and parts of five others. Fully recovered, he should be primed for another All-Pro season.
A starter since his rookie year, John was named to the All-NFL Rookie team that season. In 1973, he was on his way to All-Pro honors when he went down with a knee injury halfway through the year and underwent surgery.
Mendenhall was an Associated Press Little All-American and NAIA choice at Grambling, won four letters and team defensive MVP honors and was a star in the Senior Bowl. He also had a big day in the College All-Star Game in 1972
John Rufus Mendenhall was born in Cullen, Louisiana and starred at Charles Brown High School in Springhill, Louisiana. He lives in Houston during the off-season."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: George Martin

Defensive End
No. 75
Oregon
"For an 11th round pick, Martin proved to be an outstanding addition in his rookie year. Big, rangy and quick, he appeared in all 14 games last year and started four times in place of injured Dave Gallagher. In every instance, Martin turned in commendable work. He also did a big job on special teams work, always showing hitting ability. As for speed, he showed that, too, catching the 49ers' Bruce Taylor from behind after a 66-yard punt return to negate a sure touchdown.
George began his career at Oregon as a tight end, then switched to the defensive line in his junior year. He had 83 solo tackles in his senior year. George was also a fine basketball player in college, earning letters in his freshman and sophomore seasons before concentrating strictly on football.
George Dwight Martin was born in Greenville, South Carolina but played his high school athletics at Armijo High School in Fairfield, California where he was not only an outstanding football player but an All-American basketball performer. He resides in Fairfield in the off-seasons."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Spider Lockhart

Free Safety
No. 43
North Texas State
"A 13th round draft choice in 1965, Spider has been a starter in the defensive secondary since his rookie year, initially at left corner and for the last nine years at free safety. The defensive captain of the Giants, he rates as one of the premier free safeties in the NFL. He's an aggressive, intelligent and instinctive player who has proven virtually indestructible despite his slender size and the all-out way he plays.
Spider had his best season, statistically, in 1968 when he intercepted eight passes, returning two for touchdowns. Named to the All-NFL Eastern Conference team that year, he has also been named to the Pro Bowl team twice. His 41 career interceptions ranks him third on the all-time Giant list behind Emlen Tunnell and the late Jimmy Patton, and he shares the club record for most interceptions in a game (3). Spider also doubled as a punt return man for seven years and had 62 returns for 314 yards and a 5.1 average. And he's also doubled as a punter during his fine career!
A two-way player for three seasons as a flanker and a defensive back at North Texas State, he also had a 4.0 rushing average as a runner and a 40.0 punting average. He led the Missouri Valley Conference in punting for two years and also lettered in baseball and track.
Carl Ford Lockhart was born in Dallas into a family of seven children and starred at Hamilton Park High School in Dallas. He's now made his home in the New York area where he works for Bache & Co. in the off-season. An extremely popular speaker, he stays busy with personal appearances year round."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Doug Kotar

Running Back
No. 44
Kentucky
"Signed as a free agent by the Steelers, Doug came to the Giants in a minor trade for free agent quarterback Leo Gasienica during training camp and became an almost instant celebrity, leading the NFC in rushing during the preseason with 391 yards and a 5.8 average, including 124 yards rushing against the Eagles and 153 against Buffalo.
Kotar continued his fine performance in the regular season, finishing as the second leading rusher on the club with 396 yards, a 3.7 average and four touchdowns despite missing several games with rib injuries. Doug came up with the best rushing day of the season- 119 yards against Atlanta- and also had the longest run from scrimmage, a 53-yarder for a touchdown against the Falcons. Blessed with great quickness and deceptive speed, he also had 10 pass receptions and was used as a reserve kickoff and punt return man, too.
In 1975, Doug again finished as the second leading rusher with 378 yards on 122 carries and led the club in rushing touchdowns with six. He had the top rushing day of the year with 89 yards against the Saints. He also had nine pass catches for 86 yards and 17 kickoff returns for 405 yards, including one burst of 64 against San Diego.
Kotar earned three varsity letters at Kentucky as a running back, although injuries slowed him down somewhat in his senior year. He finished with 1,167 yards rushing in his career, and in his first varsity game ran the opening kickoff back 90 yards for a touchdown.
Douglas Allan Kotar (pronounced 'Coat-Er') was born in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania and was an all-around star at Canon-McMillan High School in his hometown."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Brian Kelley

Linebacker
No. 55
California Lutheran
"A 14th round draft pick by the Giants in 1973, Brian won himself a spot on the roster and appeared in all 14 games, chiefly as a key special teams player although he did log considerable playing time as an outside linebacker. He had two kickoff returns for 30 yards and was a big hitter on the kick coverage teams. Brian had a 36-yard touchdown run with an interception in a preseason win over the Steelers.
In 1974, when Ron Hornsby was injured, Brian moved into the middle linebacker's spot and turned in a quality season, ending up as the leading tackler on the team for the season. Nicknamed 'Ralph,' he continued to be a solid hitter all the way, on defense and on the special teams. He also came up with a key interception that led to a touchdown against Kansas City.
Last year, Kelley upgraded his performance in all areas, again leading the team in tackles, starting all 14 games and coming up with three key interceptions.
Kelley was named to the NAIA and AP Little All-American teams after his senior year at California Lutheran where he played middle linebacker and tight end. He won MVP honors in the 1971 NAIA championship game. He also won three letters in rugby, playing on the U.S. College All-Star team, and one in wrestling as district heavyweight champion.
Brian Lee Kelley was born in Dallas, Texas but grew up in Fullerton, California where he sparkled at Sunny Hills High School. He once worked for the Dallas Cowboys in their training camp and more recently as an instructor at Jack LaLanne's health spas."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Dave Jennings

Punter
No. 13
St. Lawrence
"Signed by the Giants as a free agent in August 1974 after he had been cut by the Houston Oilers, Jennings battled incumbent Tom Blanchard for the punting job through the preseason campaign and won himself a job as Blanchard was waived and subsequently picked up by New Orleans.
In his first appearance for the Giants, Jennings averaged 44.6 on seven punts against the Redskins, and in a 14-6 win over Dallas two weeks later punted six times for a 46.0 average on high boomers to keep the Cowboys pinned in their own territory. He finished the year with a 39.8 average on 68 attempts with two blocked, and did well on angling his kicks. Dave was named to the All-NFL Rookie team by UPI, Pro Football Weekly and the Pro Football Writers.
Last year, Dave upped his average to 40.9 and led the NFL in kicking out of bounds inside the 20-yard line. He again had a big day in Dallas, averaging 53.2 in that one game- the second highest one-game average in club history.
Dave did not play high school football at Garden City High School in Garden City, New York, but got into it at St. Lawrence where he was a basketball letterman. He earned three varsity letters as a punter and had a 41.7 average in college, winning All-Conference honors.
David Tuthill Jennings was born in New York City and now lives in Connecticut. He worked one summer at the Sheraton Park Plaza Hotel in New Haven where the Giants stayed. He is a diehard Boston Celtic fan and is a third cousin of Red Sox catcher Carlton Fisk. Dave worked during the off-season as a member of the Giants' Speakers Bureau."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: David Jaynes

Quarterback
No. 11
Kansas
"Originally a No. 3 draft pick of the Kansas City Chiefs, Jaynes spent one season with the Chiefs. He was traded to Atlanta in 1975 for wide receiver Tom Geredine and was subsequently released by the Falcons, with the Giants signing him this past spring as a free agent.
An All-American quarterback at Kansas, Dave has been hampered by arm miseries in his brief pro career, chiefly tendinitis, but reportedly has that arm back in good condition now. He threw only two regular season passes in 1974 for no completions. In his debut with the Chiefs in a preseason game, he threw a 46-yard touchdown pass against Detroit on his very first passing attempt.
Jaynes holds 17 passing records at Kansas where in three seasons he pitched 35 touchdown connections. He also holds marks for most yards passing in a game (401), season (2,253) and career (5,132), plus most completions in a game (35), season (172) and career (389). Dave was named Big Eight MVP, Offense in 1973.
David Jaynes was born in Bonner Springs, Kansas and was a high school All-American at Bonner Springs High School before heading to KU. He once worked as an equipment aide in the Chiefs' preseason training camp. He still resides in Kansas City during the off-season."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Larry Jacobson

Defensive Tackle
No. 77
Nebraska
"Larry was one of the Giants' two picks in the first round of the 1972 draft after winning All-American honors and the Outland Trophy in his senior year at Nebraska. 'Jake' came to the Giants' camp after the College All-Star Game and won himself a starting spot at tackle as a rookie and turned in a superb season. He had six solo quarterback sacks, recovered a fumble and won a game ball for a particularly fine day against Denver.
In 1973 he missed most of the preseason with a foot injury and appeared in only nine games in the regular season, getting a quarterback sack. In 1974, he was used mainly in a reserve role appearing in 11 games. The injury jinx struck him again last year when he suffered a broken leg in a training camp scrimmage and was out for the entire year.
Jacobson was a unanimous All-American selection at Nebraska in his senior year in addition to winning the Outland Trophy. He starred in the Orange Bowl games of 1970 and 1971 and was also named to the Senior Bowl and the College All-Star units. An accounting major, he also won academic honors at Nebraska.
Larry Paul Jacobson was born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota and was an All-State selection in both football and basketball at O'Gorman High School in Sioux Falls. He lists hunting as his favorite hobby."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Bob Hyland

Center
No. 70
Boston College
"Hyland came to the Giants along with defensive back Bennie McRae from the Chicago Bears for a No. 1 draft choice in 1971. Moved to guard, he appeared in all 14 games that year and logged 411 minutes playing time- tops on the club in that category. In 1972 Hyland moved to his natural position, center, and shared the position with Greg Larson through the 1973 season. In that latter year, he was at tight end for one play and caught a 16-yard pass against St. Louis.
In 1974, Bob won the starting job at center and was injured in the first game of the year, but came back nicely in the final 11 games. The big, rugged veteran was again the starting center and the hub of the line in 1975, playing all 14 games and having a top season. He has twice been nominated for the Giants Vitalis Man of the Year Award.
Originally a No. 1 draft choice of the Green Bay Packers in 1967, Bob played three years with the Packers, including the 1968 Super Bowl game. He was traded to Chicago for a No. 1 choice in 1970 and was a starter there at center. Until he was injured in 1974, Hyland hadn't missed a game in eight seasons.
Hyland was an All-American at Boston College, playing in both the Senior Bowl and East-West games prior to being the Packers' No. 1 pick. An honor student at BC, he also won letters in baseball and in track as a shot-putter.
Robert Joseph Hyland was born in White Plains, New York and was an all-around star at Stepinac High School in that city. Bob married the former Liz O'Brien, a New York City model and television commercial actress, after last season. He operates a popular restaurant, The Single Wing, in White Plains and is highly involved in volunteer charity work with the Westchester Burn Center."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: George Hunt

Place Kicker
No. 9
Tennessee
"Hunt was inked by the Giants as a free agent during the off-season, then battled incumbent Pete Gogolak and four others for the regular job in training camp and won the position with outstanding work in the preseason. Hunt was 9-for-9 in conversions and also kicked field goals of 53 yards against Cleveland and 50 against Miami.
In the regular season, he kicked a clutch 37-yard field goal to beat the Bills 17-14 in a Monday Night thriller.
Originally a No. 5 draft choice of Cleveland, George spent the 1972 season on the Browns' taxi squad, then was traded to Baltimore where he was the Colts' regular kicker in 1973. That year, he had 70 points on 22 conversions and was 16-for-28 on field goal attempts. Released by the Colts in 1974, he had a brief trial with Dallas, then spent the '74 season in business with his father in Florida before signing with the Giants.
Hunt was a three-year starter at Tennessee, finishing second in the NCAA in scoring in 1971. At one time he had 62 consecutive PAT's, and his longest field goal was 51 yards. George also lettered in baseball for three years and was drafted by the Houston Astros in the Major League draft.
George Arthur Hunt was born in Marietta, Oklahoma and grew up in Clearwater, Florida where he starred in baseball and football at Clearwater High School. He still makes his home in Clearwater."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Pat Hughes

Linebacker
No. 56
Boston University
"Drafted No. 9 as a center in 1970, Hughes was a reserve behind veteran Greg Larson that year, then switched to outside linebacker in 1971 where he produced several solid late-season performances. He won the starting job at weakside linebacker in 1972 and had a very fine year, getting two pass interceptions, as well as many quarterback sacks, and playing tough against the run. In 1973, he had another top season with three interceptions and added a pair of sacks and fumble recoveries.
In 1974 Pat was switched to strongside linebacker and became the defensive signal-caller in the new defensive system, coming up with two more interceptions to run his career total to seven. He finally found the end zone as a Giant, but his 56-yard interception for a touchdown against the Eagles came in a preseason game. Last year, Pat went back to his weakside slot, continuing as the signal caller, and had another fine year. He produced three quarterback sacks, a pair of fumble recoveries and returned a blocked 49ers field goal attempt 59 yards to set up a touchdown.
Hughes was an ironman at Boston University, going both ways for three seasons as an offensive center and a linebacker, but it was his defensive potential which caught the eyes of the scouts. Captain his senior year, he was the team's MVP on defense and won All-East honors.
William Patrick Hughes was born in Everett, Massachusetts and majored in education and biological science at Boston University. He was a member of the Scarlet Key Honor Society and was a Harry Agganis Memorial Scholarship winner. Pat works in Boston for a securities company and now lives in Melrose, Mass. after several years in the New Jersey area."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: John Hicks

Guard
No. 74
Ohio State
"The No. 1 draft pick of the Giants in 1974, Hicks more than lived up to great expectations. First, he won himself a starting job at right guard and performed with distinction for 14 games. At season's end, the honors heaped up on him [sic]. He was named to the All-NFL Rookie team by UPI, AP, Pro Football Weekly and the Pro Football Writers of America, and then was named the NFC's Offensive Rookie of the Year by UPI- the first offensive lineman ever to win that distinction in the 20 years of the poll.
Big, strong and agile, he excelled in all phases of the game: pass blocking, leading the sweeps or in straight-ahead blocking. In 1975, Hicks again played in all 14 games and continued his stellar performances. He won the Vitalis Man of the Year Scholarship award at season's end. Everyone agrees that he is definite All-Pro material.
Hicks won just about every honor available at Ohio State. A three-year letterman, he was an All-American for two years, won both the Outland and Lombardi Trophies and finished second in the Heisman Trophy voting to John Cappelletti of Penn State. Hicks played in the Rose Bowl three times and was also named Player of the Year by the Sporting News in 1973.
John Charles Hicks was born in Cleveland, Ohio and played his high school sports at John Jay High School in that city. He's related to NFL players Tommy Hart and Frank and Elijah Pitts. He lists music and drag racing among his favorite hobbies and is active in the Catholic Big Brothers program."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Jack Gregory

Defensive End
No. 81
Delta State
"The Giants obtained Gregory from the Cleveland Browns in 1972 for a No. 1 draft choice after he had played out his option with the Browns. He had a banner season in 1972, leading the NFL in quarterback sacks with 21, being named to the first-team All-NFL team by both UPI and the Pro Football Writers, as well as going to the Pro Bowl.
In 1973 and 1974, Jack tailed off in his performances to nine and 11 sacks respectively, with many of his problems due to the critical illness of his infant son and the constant medical care. Last year, with the youngster well again, Gregory responded with still another banner campaign. He played in all 14 games and looked like the Gregory of 1972, coming up with 15 individual quarterback sacks, numerous blocked passes and a fumble recovery. He was named Giants MVP by the Long Island Athletic Club and by the NEA.
His four-year total of 56 sacks with the Giants averages out to one-per-game, certainly one of the leading totals in the entire NFL over that period of time. Jack was a No. 9 choice of the Browns as a future in 1965 and was a four-year starter for Cleveland, winning All-AFC honors and Pro Bowl designation in 1970.
Gregory began his collegiate career at Chattanooga University as a defensive tackle and a defensive end, then transferred to Delta State where he concluded his collegiate career as a two-way end.
He was born in Okolona, Mississippi and excelled at all sports at Okolona High School. His father, Jack Sr., played pro football with the Cleveland Rams in the early 1940s. Jack still resides in his hometown with his wife and young son on a large ranch where he raises cattle, cotton and soybeans."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Walker Gillette

Wide Receiver
No. 84
Richmond
"A rangy 6-5, he was the Giants' best pass catcher. His father played for Washington, Green Bay and Cleveland. He grew up in Norfolk, Virginia and was a Little All-America at Richmond. Before coming to the Giants he was employed by San Diego and St. Louis."

-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1976

"Gillette came to the Giants on waivers from the Cardinals on cutdown day in 1974 and proved to be as fine an addition as anyone on the club. He won a starting job at wide receiver half way through the '74 season when Don Herrmann was injured, and through the second half of the campaign was the top target for Craig Morton. Walker finished the year with 29 receptions for 466 yards and three touchdowns, with 28 of those catches coming in the final seven games. He almost had sweet revenge against St. Louis when he caught a 17-yard touchdown pass to put the Giants up 21-20 in the final minute of play, but Jim Bakken's field goal in the final three seconds pulled it out for the Cardinals.
Last year, he was a starter all season long and became the club's top receiver with 43 catches for 600 yards, a 14.0 average and two touchdowns. Walker had another good day against the Cardinals with six catches for 100 yards and one of his touchdowns.
Walker was originally a No. 1 draft choice of the San Diego Chargers in 1970 but saw only limited time there with 12 catches in two seasons. He was traded to St. Louis in 1972 for Dave Williams and had his best season that year when he grabbed 33 passes for 550 yards and two touchdowns. He had 20 catches in 1973, including a 48-yard touchdown against the Giants.
Gillette was an All-American at Richmond, winning three varsity letters and appearing in the College All-Star game as well as the East-West Game and Hula Bowl. His collegiate totals showed 158 catches for 2,649 yards.
Walker Adams Gillette was born in Norfolk, Virgina and starred at Southampton High School there. His father, Jim, played in the NFL with Washington, Green Bay and the Cleveland Rams."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Robert Giblin

Strong Safety
No. 28
Houston
"Robert was selected in the fourth round of the 1975 draft after a fine All-American career at Houston. He appeared in 12 games during his rookie campaign, chiefly as a special team player. He did get in significant playing time as the fifth back in certain defensive alignments and played tenaciously at all times. One of the hardest hitters on the special teams units, he also displayed considerable promise at strong safety when given the opportunity. Giblin should make a solid bid for the starting strong safety job this year.
Named to the Sporting News All-American team as well as to Playboy's preseason All-American Unit, Giblin was a hard-hitting defensive back for three campaigns. He had eight pass interceptions for 131 yards, including a 52-yarder for a touchdown as a junior. A pre-med student at Houston, Giblin was also chosen for the Academic All-American team.
Robert James Giblin was born in Omaha, Nebraska and starred at Port Neches-Groves High School in Port Neches, Texas. He was also a two-year letterman in golf in high school, and lists that as his favorite hobby."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Dave Gallagher

Defensive End
No. 71
Michigan
"Dave came to the Giants just prior to the start of the 1975 regular season in a trade with the Chicago Bears, a trade which sent wide receiver Bob Grim to the Windy City. He stepped right into a starting role at defensive left end and made his Giant debut a good one by sacking Mike Boryla twice in the Giants' opening day 23-14 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles.
Dave was the Bears' No. 1 draft choice in 1974- and the 20th player selected that year- and appeared in all 14 games for Chicago, 11 as a starter. He was in on 41 tackles, and had a fumble recovery and a sack.
Dave missed two games because of injuries last year, but should continue to be a starter, either at left end or left tackle, since he can play either position.
Dave had a brilliant career at Michigan, winning consensus All-American honors in his senior year. He was also named to the All-Big 10 team twice and to the All-Big 10 academic team three times. An honor student, he won a National Football Foundation Award and an NCAA Postgraduate scholarship award. He had 175 tackles and 16 sacks in a career as a starter that saw Michigan go 31-1-1, the only loss being 14-11 to Ohio State.
David Dillon Gallagher was born in Piqua, Ohio and starred in football, baseball and track at Piqua Central High School. He and his wife, Carole, reside in Woodbridge, Illinois in the off-season and he lists theater and graphic printing as hobbies, along with handball and basketball."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Charlie Ford

Cornerback
No. 27
Houston
"Signed by the Giants as a free agent midway through the 1975 season, Ford had played with the Buffalo Bills earlier in the '75 season, starting four games at cornerback and showing an interception and a fumble recovery.
Originally a No. 2 draft choice of the Chicago Bears, Charlie spent three seasons there as a starter and had 14 interceptions for 200 yards returned, including seven in the 1972 season for 104 yards returned. Traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in 1974, he played six games there and was then dealt to Houston before landing in Buffalo with the Bills. He's also a fine special teams player.
Charlie was a standout defensive player at the University of Houston, winning three letters as a starting defensive back. He was named to several All-American teams in his senior season.
Charles Glenn Ford was born in Beaumont, Texas and grew up there, starring in all sports at Beaumont High School. He still likes the life in that area and now resides in Missouri City, Texas during the off-season."

-1975 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Rick Dvorak

Linebacker
No. 66
Wichita State
"A No. 3 draft choice in 1974, Rick put in time as both a linebacker and defensive end in the 53 Defense during the preseason. He was a key man on the special teams all during the regular season in addition to logging playing time as a reserve.
Last year, Rick was moved to the defensive line and got in plenty of time at both defensive end and defensive tackle when Dave Gallagher and John Mendenhall were injured. He was in on three quarterback sacks, had a fumble recovery and continued to do a solid job on special teams as he appeared in all 14 games.
He was a three-time All-Missouri Conference selection as a defensive tackle at Wichita State, winning team MVP honors in his rookie season. He set a school record with 27 unassisted tackles in one game. Rick majored in engineering with a B average and was a Vince Lombardi scholarship winner.
Richard Dvorak was born in Spearville, Kansas and played his high school athletics at Spearville High School in his hometown. He resides in Wichita during the off-seasons."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Joe Dawkins

Running Back
No. 26
Wisconsin
"With only a 3.4 average, he was the top gainer for the Giants. A photography and billiard enthusiast, he grew up in Los Angeles and went to Wisconsin. He has played at Houston and Denver."

-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1976

"Dawkins came to the Giants from the Denver Broncos for a No. 3 draft choice prior to the 1974 season and proved to be a stellar acquisition, leading the club in both rushing (561 yards) and in pass receiving (46 for 332 yards) and scoring five touchdowns. A hard runner and good blocker, Joe came up with game-winning touchdown catches against Dallas (14 yards) and Kansas City (51 yards) and proved to be the most consistent starter in the backfield.
Originally a No. 10 draft choice of Houston in 1970, Dawkins was the Oilers' leading rusher as a rookie with 517 yards, then went to the Broncos in a 1971 trade for Dickie Post. He had his biggest year in 1973 with Denver, rushing for 706 yards and a 4.4 average and also caught 30 passes. Joe also has ability as a kickoff return man, showing a 24.8 career average. He returned four for the Giants in 1974 for a whopping 38.5 average, including a pair of 53-yard runbacks. Joe was again the leading [Giants] rusher in 1975 with 438 yards and a 3.4 average with two touchdowns, and added 24 pass receptions for another 245 yards. He has the ability to play halfback as well as fullback.
Joe began his career at Los Angeles City College, then moved on to Wisconsin where he earned two varsity letters and gained 816 yards on 188 carries for a 4.3 average.
Joseph Dawkins III was born in Los Angeles and played his high school sports at John C. Fremont High School in L.A. He still lives in Los Angeles, is related to former San Diego running back Don McCall, and lists photography and billiards as his favorite hobbies."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Larry Csonka

Running Back
No. 39
Syracuse
"He returns from the WFL (bringing with him most of the offensive line from the Memphis team).
'I just plow away,' he once said of his running technique, 'fighting for every inch, and accept the consequences.'
He is said to have asked- and received- a $50,000 cash bonus for signing, an annual bonus of $15,000, a 20-year loan of $125,000, plus expense account, plane tickets, game tickets and an apartment. Then there was his salary- around $200,000 a year."

-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1976

"In a stunning off-season move, the Giants signed former Miami star Larry Csonka on April 7, giving the club a powerhouse runner who in seven seasons with the Dolphins had rushed for 5,900 yards in 1,286 carries, a 4.6 average and 41 touchdowns. Csonka had spent the 1975 season with Memphis in the WFL but became a free agent at season's end.
While with Miami, Csonka rushed for 1,000 yards or more three straight years (1971-73), starred in three Super Bowls, won All-NFL honors five times, played in the Pro Bowl five times and earned just about every honor available.
He was the MVP in the 1974 Super Bowl 24-7 triumph over the Vikings, rushing for 145 yards in that big game. In the previous Super Bowl, a win over the Redskins, Larry rushed for 112 yards in just 15 carries for a 7.5 average. The Pro Football Writers of America also named him the Super Athlete of the Year after his 1974 Super Bowl heroics.
Csonka's 5,900 yards rushing also makes him the No. 1 active rusher in the NFC, and that same total has ranked him No. 10 on the NFL career rushing list.
He was a unanimous All-American at Syracuse where he broke the rushing records of previous Syracuse greats Jim Brown, the late Ernie Davis, Jim Nance and Floyd Little. Larry rushed for 216 yards as soph against West Virginia and finished with 2,934 yards on 957 carries for a 4.9 college average. He was the first offensive back drafted in 1968 (No. 1 by Miami) and is the only player ever named MVP in both the Coaches All-American and College All-Star Games.
Lawrence Richard Csonka was born in Stow, Ohio and earned letters in football, track and wrestling at Stow High School. Larry lists hunting and fishing as his chief hobbies."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Steve Crosby

Running Back
No. 33
Fort Hays College
"The 17th round draft choice in 1974, Steve became the first Fort Hays product to make it to the NFL and showed versatility and potential in his work until he was sidelined with a knee injury, underwent surgery and missed the last five games of the season.
He did a fine job in the preseason games, then had good showings as a reserve in the regular season, particularly in a 14-6 win over Dallas. His season totals were 55 yards rushing in 14 carries, two receptions for 44 yards and two kickoff returns for 47 yards, plus a 60-yard quick kick against the Redskins.
Steve was plagued by back luck again in 1975, suffering a serious ankle injury early in the regular season after seeing action in the early games. He was subsequently placed on the injured list and was out for the rest of the year.
He began his collegiate career at Kansas State with teammates like Larry Brown, Mack Herron and Lynn Dickey, then spent a year in the Army before his transfer to Fort Hays College. In two years there, he rushed for 1,891 yards and a 5.5 average-per-carry and won fine ratings for blocking ability and toughness as well.
Steven was born in Great Bend, Kansas and played his high school athletics at Pawnee High School in his hometown."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Karl Chandler

Guard
No. 61
Princeton
"Signed as a free agent [in 1974] after an impressive performance in a preseason tryout camp at Fordham, Chandler proved to be a valuable addition in his rookie season. When starter Bob Hyland was injured in the season opener, Chandler stepped right in [at center] alongside rookie guards John Hicks and Tom Mullen and did a solid job. All told, he started four games during the season and appeared in all 14 as a special team player as well.
In 1975, Chandler again appeared in all 14 games, getting plenty of playing time at left guard as well as at center. With that kind of versatility, he continues to be a valuable swingman at two positions.
Chandler earned varsity letters in both football and wrestling at Princeton, playing offensive tackle for the Tigers. In wrestling, Karl had an imposing record, losing only two matches in three years and setting Princeton records for points scored, career.
Karl Victor Chandler was born in Delaware County, Pennsylvania and starred at Newton High School in Newton Square, PA where he still resides. He is a fine handball and squash player, likes to sail and plans on entering the construction engineering business after his football career."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Danny Buggs

Wide Receiver
No. 86
West Virginia
"Buggs was a 3rd round pick by the Giants in 1975 after an All-American career at West Virginia, but was used primarily as a kickoff and punt return man during his rookie campaign. His stats in those departments showed 16 kickoff returns for 353 yards and a 22.1 average, and 19 punt returns for 93 yards and a 4.9 average.
Buggs was very impressive in the preseason action with a 27.7 kickoff return average and he had a 49-yard touchdown catch against the Miami Dolphins. With 9.5 speed in the 100, Buggs will get a long look at wide receiver in '76, in addition to his return duties.
Twice an All-American at West Virginia (Kodak team his junior year), Danny had 86 receptions for 1,796 yards and 15 touchdown in three seasons of varsity play. He added six touchdowns rushing (36 carries for 553 yards) and three more on punt returns. He also lettered in track, showing 9.5 in the 100 and 48.4 in the 440 and was West Virginia MVP in track, as well as the State Amateur Athlete of the Year in 1973.
Daniel Buggs was born in Deluth, Georgia and starred in high school sports in Avondale High School in his hometown. A member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, he is very active in that organization."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Bobby Brooks

Cornerback
No. 37
Bishop
"The No. 11 draft choice in 1974, Brooks came to the Giants on the recommendation of scout Emlen Tunnell who was impressed with his size and potential. Bobby won himself a spot in the training camp and came up with a 26-yard interception for a touchdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers in preseason play.
During the regular season, he was a key man on special teams and also got in some playing time at the right corner. Bobby had five kickoff returns for 106 yards and also returned a punt nine yards. He not only became a starter last year but led the club in interceptions with four for 38 yards and continued his solid hitting. With all his attributes, he has great overall potential.
Brooks was a safetyman for three seasons at Bishop, earning his good ratings for that hitting ability and strength as well as for his good speed in covering opponents' top receivers. He was clocked in 4.7 for the 40 while in college.
He was born in Dallas and played his high school sports at I.M. Terrell High School in Big D. Bobby still resides in Dallas during the off-seasons."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Tim Berra

Wide Receiver
No. 80
Massachusetts
"A 17th draft choice of the Baltimore Colts in 1974, Tim played in all 14 games with the Colts in his rookie year, then was one of the last cuts in 1975 and sat out the season. Signed by the Giants as a free agent during this past off-season, Tim impressed at a spring workout camp at Pace and will get a long look at wide receiver.
With the Colts in '74 he was chiefly a return man, showing 16 punt returns for 114 yards and a 7.1 average to lead the club, and 13 kickoff returns for 259 yards, including a 54-yard return against the Jets at Shea Stadium.
Berra was a stellar receiver for four years at Massachusetts and enjoyed a sparkling senior season when he caught 62 passes for 930 yards and 13 touchdowns, and was named to the American Bowl and North-South Games. He had 30 receptions for 540 yards and three touchdowns as a junior at UMass.
Timothy Thomas Berra was born in Montclair, New Jersey and was a standout at Montclair High School in his hometown. He's the son of Yogi Berra, Baseball Hall of Famer, now a Yankee coach."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Ed Croke

Public Relations Director
"Ed joined the Giants in 1965 as Director of Promotion, a position he held until 1972 when he became Director of Public Relations. Prior to joining the Giants, he was a police reporter and feature news columnist with the Yonkers Herald Statesman for three years, and sports editor and columnist for the White Plains Reporter Dispatch for six years.
Born in North Tarrytown, New York, Ed played football, basketball and baseball at North Tarrytown High School, earning All-League honors in all three seasons. He went to Iona College on a basketball scholarship, lettered there three years and played in two national tournaments as a teammate of Richie Guerrin. He also lettered three years in baseball as a pitcher, winning All-Met honors his senior year.
Ed pitched briefly in the minor league North Atlantic League before entering the Army during the Korean War where he served in the Signal Corps for two years. He still lives in North Tarrytown."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Vinnie Swerc

Administrative Assistant
"A retired sales and purchasing executive, Vinnie Swerc has been affiliated with the Giants since the 1933 season ... giving him four decades of being around the club. During that period, Swerc has assisted in many ways, initially working in the clubhouse on game days and assisting on the field, and now as a full-time administrative assistant at the club's Pace University training facility where he assists in such areas as preparation of contracts, purchasing of orders and public relations, as well as continuation of his game day work.
Vinnie is a native of Elm Park, Staten Island, graduated from Port Richmond High School there and played on championship basketball teams in the Staten Island area for several years thereafter. His arrival with the Giants in 1933 coincided with that of Ken Strong, the NYU All-American. Swerc served for many years as the head of sales and as a purchasing agent for George H. McFaddon Cotton Merchants in New York until his retirement in 1972.
Vinnie lives in Port Richmond and his favorite pastime, other than the Giants, is travel, particularly in the Caribbean area."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Julius Horai

Administrative Assistant
"A key man at the Giants' training facility operation at Pace University in Westchester County, NY is Julius 'Whitey' Horai who has been associated with the club since 1954. Whitey handles a myriad of details at the training complex, including maintenance of fields, buildings, grounds and equipment as well as serving as the coordinator of transportation and film exchanges. He's also a familiar figure on the sidelines during games.
A native of Richmond, Staten Island, Whitey graduated from Curtis High School there, then went on to Wagner College where he worked for the athletic department as equipment and field maintenance man under Jim Lee Howell. When Jim Lee came to the Giants as head coach in 1954, Horai also came in a part-time capacity, then joined the club full time in 1970. Whitey still resides on Staten Island."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Sid Moret

Equipment Manager-Assistant Trainer
"For the past 27 years, Sid Moret has been an invaluable contributor to the behind-the-scenes operations of the New York Giants. He has filled a variety of necessary roles, including equipment manager, assistant trainer and director of clubhouse morale. Sid, a New Yorker all the way (via Brooklyn, that is), is a product of New York University.
He joined the staff of the Giants in 1949 (the same year as co-trainer John Johnson) and assumed the dual role of equipment man and part-time trainer. Moret worked with the NYU Athletic Association after leaving school and, during World War II, he was associated with the Gene Tunney physical fitness program in the U.S. Navy (1943-45). In 1946-47, Sid was introduced to professional sports as trainer for the Brooklyn Dodgers of the old All-America Conference. Prior to joining the Giants, Brooklyn-born Moret handled the training chores for Brooklyn College (1948-49).
At various times, Sid has also served as trainer for basketball teams visiting Madison Square Garden."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Jerry Shay

Scout
"Former Giants defensive tackle Jerry Shay serves as the Giants' scout in the Western States area, including the West Coast and several other states such as Wyoming, Montana and the Dakotas. A native of Gary, Indiana, the 32-year-old Shay played for the Minnesota Vikings, Atlanta Falcons and Giants before a broken leg in the final game of the 1970 season ended his career.
A 6-3, 250-pounder, Jerry was the Vikings' No. 1 draft choice in 1966 after an All-Star career at Purdue. He played two years with the Vikings, then was traded to the Falcons in 1968 where he was a starting tackle for two years. Jerry came to the Giants in 1970 and was a starter for all of that season, a 9-5 year for the Giants. He never fully recovered from the broken leg and retired after the 1971 season in which he appeared in only six games, and has served as a scout since 1972.
An All-American for two years at Purdue, Jerry was born in Gary into a family named Dzedzeji (since changed to Shay.)"

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Roosevelt Brown

Scout
"Roosevelt Brown's appointment to the Giants' scouting staff in 1971 signaled the beginning of yet another era in his outstanding career with the New York ball club. From 1953 through 1965, Rosey ranked as one of the all-time great offensive linemen in the National Football League. He was a big, fast, wide-ranging tackle who earned All-Pro honors six times, was selected to play in the Pro Bowl on eight occasions, and in 1956 was voted Lineman of the Year in the NFL. When a phlebitis condition forced him to retire in 1966, Brown was immediately named assistant line coach by the Giants, a post he held until 1969 when he became head line coach, replacing Jim Trimble.
In 1971 Brown, along with another coaching aide, Ken Kavanaugh, left Alex Webster's staff to assume new responsibilities under Jim Lee Howell, his onetime coach, in the scouting department. Rosey, now 45, is a resident of Teaneck, New Jersey but spends a good deal of his time on the road in search of fresh talent for the Giants."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Ken Kavanaugh

Scout
"Ken Kavanaugh, one of the most famous names in National Football League history, joined the Giants' scouting staff in 1971 and brought with him a wealth of experience as both a professional player and a coach. Actually, Kavanaugh moved into the Giants' scouting department from the coaching staff, where he had been offensive end coach from 1955-68 and offensive coach from 1969-70, a total of 16 years under three head coaches, Jim Lee Howell (his current scouting superior), Allie Sherman and Alex Webster. Prior to becoming a Giant aide, the Pro Football Hall of Fame end had spent one season (1951) as end coach for his old club, the Chicago Bears, and one season (1954) at Villanova in his hometown of Philadelphia.
As a player, Ken was one of the Bear greats. He starred at end in 1940-41, left for an Air Force tour of duty and returned to make All-Pro again in 1946-47. At LSU, Kavanaugh was a four-year regular (1936-40), twice earning All-American honors."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Pop Ivy

Scout
"With the start of the 1972 NFL season, Frank (Pop) Ivy began his second tour of duty as a scout for the Giants. A veteran of head coaching assignments in three major professional leagues (NFL, AFL and Canada), Ivy first joined the New York organization as defensive line coach in 1965. He held that post through the 1966 season and then left to head up scouting operations in the Southwest. Coach Alex Webster talked Pop back into coaching in 1971 and he returned to New York from his home in Norman, Oklahoma to tutor the offensive line. Now, for the second time in his Giant career, the veteran football man is once again the club's chief talent hunter in the Southwest.
Ivy has a broad background in pro football. He was head coach of the Edmonton Eskimos in Canada (1954-57), head coach of the Chicago Cardinals in the NFL (1958-61) and then head coach of the Houston Oilers of the AFL (1962-63). An All-American college player at the University of Oklahoma, Pop saw NFL service as an end with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Chicago Cardinals."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Harry Buffington

Scout
"During his 36-odd years in football, Harry Buffington has gained wide experience on virtually every level of the game, experience that he now brings to the Giants' scouting department. In his time, the Pryor, Oklahoma native has been a player, coach, scout, recruiter and personnel expert.
His professional playing experience includes one year with the Giants (1942) when he played running back, guard and linebacker; and three years with the Brooklyn Dodgers of the AAC (1946-48). As a collegian, Harry was an all-conference wingback and blocking back for three years at Oklahoma A & M. He received a Master's Degree in secondary school administration there in 1947.
Buffington was head coach and athletic director at Austin College in Texas from 1951-54, and from 1955-62 was defensive coach at Oklahoma State. He filled the same role at Texas Tech in 1963 and then coached the defense for the Edmonton Eskimos in Canada (1964-65). Since 1966, Harry has been an area scout with CEPO."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Dave Patton

Trainer
"26-year-old Dave Patton joined the Giants' training staff two years ago after serving for two years as the assistant athletic trainer at West Point.
Born in Indianapolis, Dave was a defensive back at North Central High School until an illness curtailed his gridiron activities. He then got into the training field while still in high school, working with the school's trainer who had previously worked at Cincinnati University. Dave continued his education and training internship at Muskingum College in Ohio, working with all the teams at that college until his graduation. While at Muskingum, he was selected as the trainer for the All-Star Shrine Bowl game in Ohio.
After graduation, Dave served in the Army and was assigned as an enlisted man to West Point where he continued his chosen field of work, and he continued for two more years as assistant trainer at West Point for the varsity football and hockey teams until joining the Giants on a full-time basis. Dave still lives in Highland Falls, New York."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: John Johnson

Trainer
"John Johnson, a graduate of the Swedish Institute of Physical Therapy, has been a trainer for the Giants for the past 24 years, and during this period has also served as head trainer and physical instructor at Manhattan College.
After serving an internship period at Brooklyn Jewish and Long Island College Hospitals (1937-38), Johnson worked as a physical trainer for the Bedford YMCA and then, from 1942-46, was in charge of physical therapy and rehabilitation at a U.S. Air Force base hospital. His service hitch included duty as a physical therapy instructor, athletic trainer for post teams and as an air-sea rescue medic. From 1946-47, John was a civilian athletic trainer at the U.S. Naval Preflight School at Ottumwa, Iowa.
A member of the Eastern and National Athletic Trainers' Associations as well as the National Physical Therapy Association, Johnson has also served as a trainer for visiting teams at Madison Square Garden (1954-63). He lives in Cresskill, New Jersey."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: John Dziegiel

Physical Fitness Director
"John Dziegiel, one of the best known and widely respected trainers in the sports field, has a career that dates back over 40 years to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.
John started in 1928 by assisting the regular West Point trainers with rubdowns; in 1930, he became a full-time assistant trainer and stayed at The Point until 1944. From 1946 through 1967, Dziegiel was head trainer at Fordham University, dividing his time between Rose Hill and Yankee Stadium, where he was co-trainer, along with John Johnson, for the Football Giants, a post he acquired in 1956.
An acknowledged authority on sports injuries and treatment, John helped found the National Association of Athletic Trainers and is also active in the Eastern Athletic Trainers' Association. He and his family live in Nanuet, New York.
Dziegiel now devotes his full time and energies to a year-round physical training and conditioning program for the Giants. Players living in the New York metropolitan area work regularly with John in the off-season."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Dr. Rudy Bono

Team Physician
"As they say, Dr. Rudy Bono had a 'tough act to follow' when he joined the medical staff of the New York Giants back in 1967 as the successor to Dr. Francis J. Sweeney, who had died the previous year. Doc Sweeney had been with the ball club for over 35 years and was something of a walking legend in the NFL, and his shoes would be hard to fill. But in the ensuing years, Rudy Bono has left his own mark on the Giants and is now regarded as one of the top team physicians in the league.
The 47-year-old resident of Englewood, New Jersey forms one half of the Giants' medical team. He is responsible for the general health problems of players and coaches while his colleague, Dr. Ray Cunneff, concerns himself with the orthopedic problems.
Dr. Bono received a B.S. from Union College in 1950 and his M.D. from Albany Medical College in 1954. He did his surgical internship at St. Vincent's Hospital in New York City from 1954-55 and then served for three years as a Navy Lieutenant (1955-57). In 1965, he became Associate Attending Surgeon At St. Vincent's, and the same year was appointed Associate Professor of Clinical Surgery at the New York University-Bellevue Medical Center."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Dr. Ray Cunneff

Orthopedic Surgeon
"The newest member of the club's staff is Dr. Ray Cunneff of Red Bank, New Jersey who joined the Giants as team orthopedic surgeon prior to the 1974 season. A native of Philadelphia, Ray graduated Cum Laude from St. Joseph College in Philadelphia and from Jefferson Medical College in the same city. After an internship and residency at Jefferson Hospital, Ray served in the Air Force Medical Corps as a Captain in orthopedic surgery at Bolling Air Force Base. After his discharge, he was a resident at New York Orthopedic Hospital.
Dr. Cunneff is currently engaged in his own practice in Red Bank and is also the Director of Orthopedic Surgery at Riverview Hospital in New Jersey as well as being an Associate Attending Orthopedic Surgeon at Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center in New York. He is also President of the New Jersey Orthopedic Society and is a Consultant at both Northern Westchester Hospital and White Plains Hospital in Westchester County.
An avid golfer, Ray is often a guest lecturer at symposiums on sports injuries at various colleges."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Joe Sulaitis

Assistant Director of Personnel
"Joe Sulaitis brings to his role of Assistant Director of Personnel a broad football background that includes playing, scouting and coaching.
As a player with the Giants from 1943-45 and again from 1947-53, Joe earned a reputation as one of the most versatile men ever to play the game. He was, at various times, a wingback, end, quarterback (blocking back in the A formation) and guard on offense, while on defense he played defensive end, linebacker and defensive back. At any position, he was known as a tough, aggressive 60-minute football player. After his first three-year stint with the Giants, Joe played one year with the Boston Yanks (1946). He returned to the Giants in 1947 and put in seven more productive seasons before retiring in 1953.
Sulaitis' coaching experience included one year (1943) as head coach of North Arlington (New Jersey) High School and two years (1947-48) as backfield coach at Wagner College under Jim Lee Howell, who later became head coach of the Giants and who is now Joe's immediate superior in the club's scouting division. Sulaitis was in private business from 1953 until 1966, when he rejoined his old ball club as an area scout."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: John McVay

Research and Development
"The newest member of the Giants staff joined the club in March 1976 after serving as the head coach of the Memphis team of the WFL for two seasons.
The 45-year-old coach was born in Bellaire, Ohio and played his high school football at the famed Massillon High School in Ohio. He then moved on to play his college ball at Miami of Ohio under both Woody Hayes and Ara Parseghian and earned All-Midwest honors as a center. John was team MVP lineman for two years and team captain in 1952.
Following graduation, McVay began his coaching career at Central Catholic High School in Canton, Ohio, compiling a 41-7-2 record there in nine seasons. He moved on to Michigan State as an assistant for three seasons under Duffy Daugherty, then was named head coach at Dayton University. In 1966 the Flyers were 8-2 under McVay, their first winning record in 10 seasons. He served for five years as head coach and then was named Director of Athletics at Dayton in 1972, a position he held until being named head coach at Memphis in 1974. That year, Memphis won 17 regular season games and led the WFL in virtually every offensive category."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide

1976 Profile: Jim Trimble

Director of Pro Personnel
"Few men in professional football are better qualified than Jim Trimble to handle the role of Director of Pro Personnel, an assignment he shouldered at the start of the 1969 season when the Giants reorganized their administrative staff. As Director of Pro Personnel, Jim serves as a liaison between coach Bill Arnsparger and club president Wellington Mara, helps coordinate trades, works closely with Jim Lee Howell and members of the scouting staff and generally handles the myriad details and personnel problems that result from the ever widening range of pro football activity.
Whatever the problems, though, it is likely Jim has encountered them somewhere along the line during his 36 years in football. His background in the game is not only broad, it is also very successful. He was head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles (1952-56), the Hamilton Tiger Cats (1956-62) and the Montreal Alouettes (1963-65) and rarely was he ever on the losing side. His NFL record with the Eagles was 27-20-2. In Canada, he compiled an overall record of 77-61-2 and was named Coach of the Year in 1961. Additionally, he served in the dual role of head coach and general manager."

-1976 New York Giants Media Guide