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Alex Karras

Tackle

Inducted 1991

Date of Birth

7/15/1935

Birthplace

Gary, IN

School

University of Iowa (1955-1957)

Bio

Alex Karras was a man for all seasons. In football, he was a two-time first-team All-America tackle at Iowa. In 1957, he won the Outland Trophy as the nation's best interior lineman and was runner-up to John David Crow (Texas A&M) for the Heisman. That is the highest any tackle has ever finished in the Heisman vote. Then came 12 years with the Detroit Lions and election to the Lions' all-time team. After his playing days he was a commentator on Monday Night Football. Then came his acting career - roles in "Paper Lion," "Against All Odds," "Blazing Saddles, "Victor/Victoria," and starring role in a TV series, "Webster." He formed his own production company, Georgian Bay Ltd., and then he launched another great career - author of books. His credits include "Even Big Guys Cry," "Alex Karras by Alex Karras" and, "Tuesday Night Football." Alex was active in the Sierra Club, the Environmental Defense Fund, and Californians Against Waste.