Gros averaged 29.2 yards on the ground per contest in his career. He’s rushed for 28 touchdowns. His average yards per carry sits at 3.8 and he carried it 821 times. Earl Gros accumulated 3,157 yards carrying the ball in 108 games played in his career.
Gros carried the ball 0 times to the tune of 0.0 yards per carry. During his 0 games in his last year, Earl Gros gained 0.0 yards per contest and got in the endzone 0 times on the ground. He had a long run of 0 yds. When discussing the history of NFL running backs, one name that often comes up is Earl Gros. Known for his versatility and power, Gros made a significant impact on the field during his time in the NFL. In this article, we will explore the life and career of Earl Gros, highlighting his achievements and contributions to the game of football.
Early Life and College Career
Earl Gros was born on August 29, 1940, in Louisiana. From a young age, he displayed a natural talent for sports, particularly football. Gros attended Louisiana State University (LSU), where he played college football for the LSU Tigers. During his college years, Gros established himself as a formidable running back, known for his ability to break tackles and gain significant yardage.
His performance at LSU caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to his selection in the 1962 NFL Draft. Gros was picked in the first round by the Green Bay Packers, a team that was already building a reputation for excellence under legendary coach Vince Lombardi.
NFL Career Beginnings
Earl Gros joined the Green Bay Packers in 1962, stepping into a team that was already a powerhouse in the league. At the time, the Packers were known for their strong running game, and Gros fit right into their system. His first season with the Packers was a success, as he contributed to the team’s overall rushing attack.
Transition to the Philadelphia Eagles
In 1964, Gros was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles. This move marked a new chapter in his career, allowing him to further showcase his skills as a running back. During his tenure with the Eagles, Gros became a key player in their offensive strategy. His ability to both run the ball and catch passes out of the backfield made him a dual-threat player, complicating defensive schemes for opponents.
Achievements and Legacy
Earl Gros’s career in the NFL was marked by numerous achievements. While he may not have been the league’s leading rusher, his contributions to his teams were invaluable. Gros’s versatility on the field allowed him to adapt to various playing styles and offensive strategies, making him a valuable asset to any team he played for.
NFL Rushing Leaders and Earl Gros
While Earl Gros was never the NFL’s rushing leader, his impact on the game was still significant. The league has seen many great running backs, each leaving their mark in different ways. Gros’s ability to contribute both in the rushing game and as a receiver out of the backfield made him a unique player during his time.
The role of a running back in the NFL has evolved over the years, with players now expected to be multifaceted athletes. Gros was ahead of his time in this regard, paving the way for future running backs to become versatile weapons on the field.
Later Career and Retirement
After his time with the Philadelphia Eagles, Earl Gros continued his NFL career with the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New Orleans Saints. With each team, Gros brought his unique skill set and experience, contributing to the overall success of the teams he played for.
Earl Gros retired from professional football in 1970. After his retirement, he remained involved in the sport, sharing his knowledge and experience with younger players and aspiring athletes.
Earl Gros’s Influence on Modern NFL Running Backs
Earl Gros’s impact on the game of football extends beyond his playing days. His style of play and versatility have influenced generations of running backs who followed in his footsteps. In today’s NFL, running backs are expected to be able to run, catch, and block effectively. Gros’s ability to excel in these areas set a precedent for the modern running back.
The Evolution of the Running Back Position
The position of running back in the NFL has evolved significantly since the days of Earl Gros. Today’s running backs are not only judged by their rushing yards but also by their ability to contribute in the passing game. The dual-threat capabilities of players like Christian McCaffrey and Alvin Kamara are a testament to the evolving role of the running back position.
Earl Gros’s career serves as a reminder of the importance of adaptability and versatility in football. His contributions to the game have helped shape the expectations and demands placed on running backs in the modern era.
Conclusion
Earl Gros may not be the first name that comes to mind when discussing NFL rushing leaders, but his contributions to the game of football are undeniable. As a versatile running back who excelled in both rushing and receiving, Gros paved the way for future generations of players.
His legacy lives on in the modern NFL, where running backs are expected to be complete players capable of contributing in multiple facets of the game. Earl Gros’s impact on football is a testament to his skill, determination, and love for the game.
In remembering Earl Gros, we honor not just his accomplishments on the field, but also the lasting influence he has had on the sport of football.
