Linebacker
No. 55
California Lutheran
"The only pro football player to emerge from California Lutheran College in Thousand Oaks, where the Dallas Cowboys train each summer. Kelley once worked for the Cowboys, who liked the kid, knew he was from Dallas, but never thought of drafting him. The Giants did, in the 14th round, in 1973.
Kelley has been a starter since his second year, first in the middle where he led the team in tackles two years. He moved to weakside linebacker last year, as rookie Harry Carson took over the middle, and had another good season.
Born in Dallas, he grew up in Fullerton, California. A wrestling star in college, Kelley would rather half-nelson a running back than tackle him."
-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1977 Edition
"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.
In 1975, Kelley upgraded his performance in all areas, again leading the team in tackles, starting all 14 games and coming up with three key interceptions. In 1976, Kelley was the leading tackler for the third straight year as he split his time between middle linebacker and outside linebacker, again starting all 14 games.. All told, he had 160 tackles (84 solo and 76 assists) and continued his reputation as a hard-nosed player.
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."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
