Ernest Stautner was a dominant force on the gridiron during his time in the NFL. He spent his entire 14-season career with the Pittsburgh Steelers and was an integral part of their defensive success. As a testament to his stellar performance, Stautner was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1969. One of his most coveted and iconic items in the world of football collectibles is his 1951 Bowman football card.
Stautner was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the second round of the 1950 NFL Draft. He quickly established himself as a fearsome presence on the defensive line, earning his first Pro Bowl selection in his second year. However, it was his performance in the 1951 season that truly impressed football fans and solidified his spot as a dominant player in the league.
The 1951 season was a standout year for Stautner, as he recorded 7 sacks and recovered two fumbles. He also played a pivotal role in the Steelers’ defense, helping the team finish with a winning record for the first time since 1947. Stautner’s impressive performance on the field earned him a spot on the 1951 All-Pro team and cemented his status as a top defensive player in the NFL.
The 1951 Bowman football card captures Stautner in action, with his intense gaze and focused expression. The card is highly sought after by collectors due to its rarity and historical significance. In fact, a PSA-graded Mint 9 version of the card sold for over $22,000 at auction in 2018.
Aside from its rarity, the 1951 Bowman football card also holds sentimental value for fans and collectors. This was the first year that Bowman included a color photograph on their football cards, making Stautner’s card a milestone in the history of football collectibles.
Stautner’s 1951 Bowman football card is a prized possession for any football fan or collector. It represents a pivotal moment in both his career and the history of football cards. It also serves as a reminder of Stautner’s impact on the game and his lasting legacy as one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history.
In addition to his impressive playing career, Stautner is also remembered for his charisma and leadership both on and off the field. He served as the Steelers’ defensive line coach after his retirement and was instrumental in developing young players, including Joe Greene and L.C. Greenwood, who would go on to be key members of the legendary “Steel Curtain” defense.
In 1987, Stautner’s number 70 jersey was retired by the Pittsburgh Steelers, making him the first defensive player to receive this honor. He will forever be remembered as a fierce competitor, a mentor, and a true icon in the world of football.
The 1951 Bowman football card featuring Ernest Stautner is a timeless piece of sports history that will continue to hold value and significance for generations to come. It serves as a lasting tribute to a legendary player and his outstanding contributions to the game of football.