Jim Parker

Jim Parker joined the Baltimore Colts as their first-round pick in 1957. He had been a two-way tackle at Ohio State, and his college coach thought Parker’s best chance at success in professional football would be on defense. Colts’ coach Weeb Ewbank had other ideas though, placing Parker on the offensive line, and dividing his career playing time between both left guard and left tackle. Despite the different responsibilities at either position, Parker excelled at both, becoming one of the most decorated offensive linemen in football.

Career Highlights

• Member of the Professional and National Football Foundation Hall of Fame
• Named to the modern All-Time All-America Collegiate team in 1969
• As a tackle, he earned All-Pro honors each year from 1958-61.
• Played in eight consecutive Pro Bowls (1958-65) after moving to left guard
• Played 139 consecutive games into the 1967 season before retiring
• Named to the NFL’s 75th Anniversary Team