Harvey Martin

Harvey Martin

Harvey Martin was born on November 16th, 1950

Full Name: Harvey Banks Martin
Nationality: American
Profession: Football player
Position: Defensive end
NFL Team: Dallas Cowboys
College: Minneapolis College of Art and Design
Awards: Super Bowl XII
Pro Bowl: 1976, 1977

A dominant defensive end who played for the Dallas Cowboys, earning him the nickname "Too Mean" and a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He's a four-time Pro Bowl selection and co-MVP of Super Bowl XII.

Written by: Carlos Hernandez Carlos Hernandez

Harvey Martin: The Legendary Defensive End

Harvey Martin, a defensive end with the Dallas Cowboys, is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in National Football League (NFL) history. With his impressive skills on the field, he earned numerous accolades, including being named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1977.

Early Life and High School Career

Martin's journey to becoming a football legend began in his junior year at South Oak Cliff High School in Dallas, Texas. Initially a backup offensive tackle, Martin's determination and hard work paid off when he convinced his coaches to move him to defensive tackle. By his senior year, he was a starter and led his team to a Dallas City championship and a state quarterfinal appearance.

College Career and Rise to Fame

Martin's impressive high school performance earned him a scholarship to East Texas State University (now Texas A&M University-Commerce), where he evolved into one of the best defensive ends in school history. During his senior year, he led the team to a national title and was named to the NAIA All-American, All-Texas, and All-LSC teams.

NFL Career and Achievements

Drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 1973, Martin quickly established himself as a dominant force on the field. He played 11 seasons with the Cowboys, earning four Pro Bowl selections and being named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1977. Martin's impressive career statistics include 114 sacks, 14 fumble recoveries, and 11 interceptions.

Awards and Honors

Legacy and Impact

Martin's impressive career and achievements have left a lasting impact on the NFL. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive ends in NFL history, and his number 79 jersey was retired by the Cowboys in 2000. The Harvey Martin Classic, a college football game featuring Texas A&M University-Commerce, was established in 2008 to honor his legacy.

In addition to his on-field achievements, Martin's inspirational story from being a late-blooming athlete to becoming a legendary NFL player has motivated countless young athletes to pursue their dreams.

Personal Life and Philanthropy

Off the field, Martin was known for his charitable work, particularly in the Dallas community. He was involved in various philanthropic initiatives, including working with youth organizations and supporting local charities.

Martin's legacy extends beyond his impressive football career, serving as a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and community involvement.

Timeline
1951
Born in Dallas, Texas
Harvey Martin was born on November 16, 1951, in Dallas, Texas. He would go on to become an American football player.
1973
Drafted by the Dallas Cowboys
Martin was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the third round of the 1973 NFL Draft.
1977
Named NFL Defensive Player of the Year
Martin was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1977, after a stellar season with the Cowboys.
1983
Played for the Seattle Seahawks
Martin played for the Seattle Seahawks from 1983 to 1984, before retiring from professional football.
2001
Passed Away at Age 51
Martin passed away on December 24, 2001, at the age of 51, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest defensive ends in NFL history.
Harvey Martin

Harvey Martin Quiz

What nickname was given to Harvey Martin due to his dominant defensive skills?

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FAQ
What is Harvey Martins NFL career like?
Harvey Martin played in the NFL for 11 seasons, including 9 with the Dallas Cowboys, where he won two Super Bowl rings and was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1977.
What was Harvey Martins playing style?
Harvey Martin was a dominant defensive end known for his speed, strength, and agility, which allowed him to rush the quarterback and stuff the run.
What are Harvey Martins career statistics?
Harvey Martin recorded 114 sacks in his NFL career, which ranked 14th all-time at the time of his retirement.
What was Harvey Martins life like after football?
Harvey Martin struggled with addiction and personal issues after his playing career, but later became a successful businessman and sports broadcaster.
How did Harvey Martins life end?
Harvey Martin died on December 24, 2001, at the age of 51, due to complications from pancreatic cancer.

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