Art Donovan: The Larger-Than-Life Defensive Tackle of the NFL

A Legendary Career on the Field

Art Donovan, affectionately known as "Fatso," was a dominant defensive tackle in the National Football League (NFL) during the 1950s and 1960s. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1968, Donovan is revered for his contributions to the Baltimore Colts, where he played for 12 seasons and won two NFL championships.

Early Life and Military Service

Born on June 5, 1924, in the Bronx, New York, Donovan was the son of Arthur Donovan Sr., a boxing referee, and the grandson of Professor Mike Donovan, a world middleweight boxing champion in the 1870s. Donovan attended Mount Saint Michael Academy and later received a scholarship to the University of Notre Dame in 1942. However, he left after one semester to enlist in the United States Marine Corps in April 1943, serving in the Pacific Theatre during World War II. His military service included participating in the Battle of Luzon and the Battle of Iwo Jima, earning him several citations, including the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal and the Philippine Liberation Medal.

College Football and the NFL Draft

After the war, Donovan completed his college career at Boston College, where he played football and earned a degree in business administration. In the 1950 NFL draft, Donovan was selected by the Baltimore Colts in the 22nd round. However, the Colts folded after his rookie season, and he was redrafted by the Cleveland Browns in the 1951 NFL draft.

A Persevering Professional Career

Donovan's early NFL career was marked by challenges, as he played for three teams that went out of business in his first three seasons. Despite these setbacks, he persevered and eventually found a home with the Baltimore Colts, where he played for 12 seasons and became a cornerstone of the team's defense. Donovan's impressive career statistics include 13 fumble recoveries, 10 interceptions, and 4 touchdowns.

Post-Football Life and Legacy

After retiring from football in 1961, Donovan went on to become a popular restaurateur and radio personality in Baltimore. He was known for his charismatic personality, humor, and generosity, often hosting charity events and supporting local causes. Donovan's larger-than-life persona and football legacy have cemented his place in NFL history, inspiring generations of football players and fans.

Awards and Honors

• Pro Football Hall of Fame (1968)
• U.S. Marine Corps Sports Hall of Fame (first pro football player inducted)
• NFL championships (1958, 1959)
• Baltimore Colts Ring of Honor

Personal Quirks and Quotes

Donovan was known for his wit and humor, often referring to himself as "Fatso." One of his most famous quotes is: "I never weighed more than 260 pounds, but I looked like I weighed 300." His charismatic personality and larger-than-life persona have made him a beloved figure in NFL history.