Title
Urging the Pro Football Hall of Fame's Selection Committee to elect Johnny Sample as a member, in recognition of his legacy as a pioneering athlete, broadcaster, and activist.
Body
WHEREAS, Johnny Sample first rose to prominence for his prowess on the football field. A graduate of Overbrook High School, he went on to star as a running back at Maryland State College, now known as University of Maryland Eastern Shore. Over four years, he led the team to two Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association championships and was named an All-American three times. In recognition of his excellence, he was ultimately selected for the Black College Football Hall of Fame; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Sample continued to shine over an 11-year career in professional football, playing on both defense and special teams. He is the only player in history to win an NFL championship, an AFL championship, and a Super Bowl, three of the most memorable games every played. He started in all three and had an interception in Super Bowl III. He starred alongside numerous NFL legends, including quarterback Joe Namath, who was his co-captain on the New York Jets. Contemporaries remember him as uniquely intimidating, both physically and psychologically. Notably, his career ended abruptly in his prime, when he was cut by the Jets after starring in their Super Bowl III victory; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Sample also left a lasting mark on professional football off the field. He was unapologetically outspoken about the unequal treatment of players of color, including disparities in compensation. He was a dedicated union member and sued the NFL multiple times. He was credited in the New York Times as the NFL's first "trash talker." But his broadcasting colleague Tom Cardella wrote in the South Philly Review that, despite the "fire in his belly," Mr. Sample had a "thoughtful, gentle side." Indeed, he was an insightful thinker and mentored luminaries like Brian Dawkins and Bernard Hopkins, along with countless les...
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