A dominant left tackle in the 1980s, he protected quarterback Jim McMahon and helped the Chicago Bears win Super Bowl XX. Known for his aggressive blocking style and six Pro Bowl appearances.
Jim Covert is a legendary American former football offensive tackle who played in the National Football League (NFL) for eight seasons with the Chicago Bears. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest offensive tackles in NFL history, earning consensus All-American honors during his college days at the University of Pittsburgh.
Born on March 22, 1960, in Conway, Pennsylvania, Covert excelled in both football and wrestling at Freedom Area High School in Beaver County, west of Pittsburgh. As a senior, he led the 1977 Freedom Bulldogs to an undefeated 11-0 record, capturing the Midwestern Athletic Conference (MAC) Championship. Covert's impressive performance earned him UPI First-team All-State honors, making him a highly recruited player.
Covert arrived at the University of Pittsburgh in 1978, initially playing on the defensive line as a freshman. A shoulder injury sidelined him for the 1979 season, and he was redshirted. However, it was a chance encounter with offensive line coach Joe Moore that prompted Covert to switch to offensive tackle in the spring of 1980. This pivotal decision would ultimately lead Covert to both the College Football and Pro Football Hall of Fame.
As a starter on Pitt's offensive front for his final three seasons, Covert surrendered a mere three sacks during that span. His remarkable senior year saw him give up zero sacks, earning him consensus All-American honors. Coach Moore praised Covert, saying, "Jimbo is so good, it's like watching a clinic film." Pittsburgh's team went 31-5 during Covert's three years as a starter, finishing in the nation's Top 10 each season.
The Chicago Bears selected Covert in the first round of the 1983 NFL draft. He went on to play eight seasons with the Bears, becoming an integral part of the team's success during the 1980s. Covert's impressive career has earned him a well-deserved place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Covert's remarkable journey from high school phenom to NFL great is a testament to hard work, dedication, and perseverance. His switch from defensive line to offensive tackle serves as a reminder that taking risks and embracing new challenges can lead to unparalleled success. As Covert's coach, Joe Moore, so aptly put it, "Jimbo is so good, it's like watching a clinic film." Covert's inspirational story serves as a beacon of motivation for aspiring athletes and individuals alike.
Jim Covert's legacy continues to inspire future generations of football players, cementing his place as one of the all-time greats in the world of American football.
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