Frank “Bruiser” Kinard, who played for the Brooklyn Dodgers and the New York Yankees, has passed away. Despite never stepping foot on a pro baseball field, he played for these teams in pro football. Kinard was a member of the Class of 1971 and passed away in 1985. The Pro Football Hall of Fame pays tribute to him with the hashtag #HOFForever..
He played for the Brooklyn Dodgers and the New York Yankees, yet never stepped foot on a pro baseball field.
Instead, those were the pro football teams for Frank “Bruiser” Kinard, a member of our Class of 1971 who passed away #OTD in 1985. #HOFForever pic.twitter.com/sLm5wtgmb1
— Pro Football Hall of Fame (@ProFootballHOF) September 7, 2023
Obituary – Death News : Title: Remembering Frank “Bruiser” Kinard: A Unique Legacy in the NFL and Beyond
Frank “Bruiser” Kinard, a former member of the Brooklyn Dodgers and the New York Yankees, passed away on this day in 1985. Although he never set foot on a professional baseball field, Kinard’s contribution to the world of sports, particularly in football, was nothing short of remarkable.
Born on October 23, 1914, in Pelahatchie, Mississippi, Kinard’s passion for athletics was evident from an early age. During his high school years, he excelled in both football and baseball, showcasing his exceptional talent and determination. As a standout athlete, Kinard received numerous accolades and caught the attention of college recruiters across the country.
After graduating from Pelahatchie High School, Kinard enrolled at the University of Mississippi, where he continued to shine on the football field. During his college career, he earned All-American honors twice, solidifying his reputation as one of the most dominant linemen of his time. Kinard’s exceptional performances led the Ole Miss Rebels to success, and his impact on the team’s achievements cannot be overstated.
Following his collegiate career, Kinard’s talent attracted the attention of professional football scouts. In 1938, he joined the Brooklyn Dodgers (later known as the Brooklyn Tigers) of the NFL. Kinard’s powerful presence on the field, combined with his exceptional skills, quickly made him a force to be reckoned with. His remarkable agility, strength, and strategic approach to the game made him one of the league’s most feared linemen.
Kinard’s time with the Dodgers was cut short due to the outbreak of World War II. He enlisted in the United States Navy and served his country with honor and distinction. Despite his absence from the sport during the war, Kinard’s impact on the football field had already cemented his place in history.
After the war, Kinard returned to the NFL, this time as a member of the New York Yankees. Although his time with the Yankees was relatively short-lived, he continued to showcase his exceptional skills and leadership abilities. Kinard’s contributions to the team’s success were invaluable, and his legacy as a football player continued to grow.
Beyond his athletic achievements, Kinard’s character and integrity were widely recognized. He was admired for his sportsmanship and dedication to the game, inspiring teammates and fans alike. Kinard’s commitment to excellence and his unwavering determination served as an inspiration to future generations of football players.
While Kinard’s career in professional sports may not have included a stint on the baseball field, his impact on the NFL and the sports world as a whole was undeniable. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1971 solidified his place among the legends of the game.
Frank “Bruiser” Kinard’s passing in 1985 marked the end of an era. His incredible talent, unwavering dedication, and remarkable contributions to the sport will forever be remembered. Kinard’s legacy serves as a reminder of the impact one individual can have on a sport and the lives of those who follow in their footsteps.
As we remember Frank “Bruiser” Kinard on this day, let us celebrate his extraordinary life and the indelible mark he left on the world of football. His spirit and accomplishments will continue to inspire generations to come.
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@ProFootballHOF wrote
He played for the Brooklyn Dodgers and the New York Yankees, yet never stepped foot on a pro baseball field. Instead, those were the pro football teams for Frank "Bruiser" Kinard, a member of our Class of 1971 who passed away #OTD in 1985. #HOFForever