Earl Campbell
Earl Campbell is one of the most renowned former American football players. He is a legendary running back who played for the Houston Oilers and the New Orleans Saints during his career. Born on March 29, 1955, in Tyler, Texas, Earl Christian Campbell has had an illustrious career that has earned him a place in the NFL Hall of Fame.
Earl Campbell
Early Life and Education Earl Campbell grew up in a large family, with ten siblings. He attended John Tyler High School in Tyler, Texas, where he played high school football. He was an exceptional player and won several awards and accolades during his high school career. In his senior year, he led his team to a state championship and rushed for 2,048 yards.
After high school, Campbell received several scholarship offers from colleges and universities across the country. He chose to attend the University of Texas at Austin, where he continued his football career. At Texas, Campbell became one of the most dominant players in college football history. In his senior year, he won the Heisman Trophy, which is awarded annually to the most outstanding player in college football.
Professional Career In 1978, Campbell was selected as the first overall pick in the NFL Draft by the Houston Oilers. He had a remarkable rookie season, rushing for 1,450 yards and 13 touchdowns. He continued his outstanding play in the following seasons and established himself as one of the best running backs in the league. In 1980, he led the Oilers to their first playoff appearance in nearly a decade.
Campbell continued to play for the Oilers until 1984 when he was traded to the New Orleans Saints. He played for the Saints for three seasons before retiring from the NFL in 1985. During his career, Campbell rushed for 9,407 yards and scored 74 touchdowns. He was a three-time NFL rushing champion, a five-time Pro Bowler, and was named the NFL’s Most Valuable Player in 1979.
Life After Football After retiring from football, Earl Campbell struggled with health issues related to his football career. He underwent multiple surgeries, including a spinal surgery in 1991, which left him with a permanent limp. Despite his health issues, Campbell has remained active and involved in the football community. He has worked as a college football analyst for ESPN and as a consultant for the Houston Texans.
Campbell has also been involved in various charitable causes. He established the Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award in 2013, which is presented annually to the top offensive player in college football who also exhibits the characteristics of courage, integrity, and sportsmanship. Campbell has also been involved in raising awareness for multiple sclerosis, which his sister suffers from.
Personal Life and Net Worth Earl Campbell has been married to his wife Reuna Smith since 1980. The couple has two sons, Christian and Tyler, both of whom played college football. Christian played for the University of Houston, and Tyler played for the University of Texas, following in his father’s footsteps.
Campbell’s net worth is estimated to be around $25 million, primarily from his football career and endorsement deals. He has been featured in commercials for companies such as Campbell’s Soup and Burger King.
Residence and Present Situation Campbell currently resides in Austin, Texas, with his wife Reuna. He remains involved in various charitable causes and is also a co-owner of the Austin-based Texas Longhorns restaurant chain.
In conclusion, Earl Campbell is a football legend whose contributions to the sport will never be forgotten. Despite facing health issues, he has remained active and involved in the football community and in charitable causes. His legacy as one of the greatest running backs of all time will continue to inspire future generations of football players.