During his career, Settle took the field in 46 contests and gained 1,801 yds carrying the ball. He carried the football 439 different times to the tune of 4.1 YPC. He gained 39.2 yards per contest and crossed the goal line 10 different times while carrying the ball. Settle fumbled the ball 0 times in his career.
Settle rushed for 0.0 yds on the ground per game. He rushed for 0 TDs in his final season for 0 yards. His average yards per carry sat at 0.0 and he carried the ball 0 different times in his final season. Settle rushed for 0 yards on the ground in 0 games in his last season. John Settle is a name that resonates with fans of American football, especially those who follow the NFL and the thrilling role of running backs in the game. As one of the notable NFL running backs, John Settle carved out a career marked by determination and skill.
Early Life and College Career
John Settle was born on June 2, 1965, in Reidsville, North Carolina. His love for football began at a young age, where he showed immense talent and promise as a player. This passion led him to Appalachian State University, where he played college football and made a significant impact as a running back.
College Achievements
During his time at Appalachian State, Settle proved himself to be an outstanding player. He became the first player in the schoolยs history to rush for over 1,000 yards in a single season, a feat he accomplished twice during his college career. His performance on the field earned him All-American honors, highlighting his potential to succeed at the professional level.
Transition to the NFL
John Settle went undrafted in the 1987 NFL Draft, a surprising outcome given his impressive college stats. However, his determination and talent did not go unnoticed for long.
Joining the Atlanta Falcons
Settle signed with the Atlanta Falcons as a free agent in 1987. Despite entering the league without the fanfare of a high draft pick, Settle quickly made his presence felt on the team. His work ethic and ability to execute plays made him a valuable asset to the Falcons’ offense.
NFL Achievements
In 1988, John Settle made history by becoming the first undrafted running back to rush for over 1,000 yards in a single NFL season. This achievement placed him among the elite NFL running backs and solidified his reputation as a formidable player. Settle’s success on the field was a testament to his hard work and dedication to the game.
Playing Style and Skills
John Settle was known for his powerful running style and ability to break tackles. Standing at 5 feet 9 inches and weighing 218 pounds, he possessed a combination of strength and agility that allowed him to navigate through opposing defenses effectively. His vision on the field and quick decision-making were key components of his success as a running back.
Versatility
In addition to his rushing abilities, Settle was also a reliable receiver out of the backfield. His versatility added an extra dimension to his game, making him a dual-threat player who could contribute in multiple ways.
Life After Playing Career
After retiring from professional football, John Settle transitioned to coaching, where he shared his knowledge and experience with the next generation of players.
Coaching Career
Settle began his coaching career at his alma mater, Appalachian State, where he served as a running backs coach. He later moved on to coach at various other institutions, including the University of Wisconsin and the University of Pittsburgh. His coaching career also extended to the NFL, where he worked with the Cleveland Browns and the Carolina Panthers.
Impact as a Coach
As a coach, Settle has been praised for his ability to develop young talent and instill a strong work ethic in his players. His firsthand experience as an NFL running back has provided him with valuable insights that he uses to mentor aspiring football players.
Legacy and Recognition
John Settle’s journey from an undrafted player to a successful NFL running back serves as an inspiration to many. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of seizing every opportunity.
Hall of Fame and Honors
While Settle may not have been inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, his contributions to the game have not gone unnoticed. In 1994, he was inducted into the Appalachian State Athletics Hall of Fame in recognition of his outstanding college career.
Influence on Future Generations
Settle’s legacy continues to influence young athletes who dream of making it to the NFL. His story encourages them to work hard, remain dedicated, and never give up, regardless of the obstacles they may face.
Conclusion
John Settle’s career as an NFL running back is a remarkable example of what can be achieved through hard work and determination. From his early days in North Carolina to his impactful college career and success in the NFL, Settle has left an indelible mark on the world of football.
His transition to coaching has allowed him to continue contributing to the sport he loves, shaping the future of football by developing the next generation of players. John Settle’s story is a powerful reminder that success is not solely defined by draft status, but by the dedication and passion one brings to their craft.
