Earl Faison

Considered one of the first great big men in football, Faison was an All-American performer at Indiana before getting drafted by the San Diego Chargers of the American Football League (AFL). His impact was felt immediately as he was tabbed Rookie of the Year in 1961, and was a consistent All-AFL player. Along with teammate Ernie Ladd, the Chargers had the biggest defensive line in all of football. Faison helped the Chargers win the 1963 AFL championship, but after his All-Pro year of 1965, chronic back spasms led to his retirement in 1966. He then became a teacher and head football coach at San Diego Lincoln High School, where he coached future NFL superstar Marcus Allen.