tshof.org: Inductees

Campbell, Earl

Nickname:
"The Tyler Rose"

Bio:
Earl Christian Campbell utilized a rare blend of speed and power to become the dominant running back of his era. It began as a senior at John Tyler High School when the converted defensive end gained 2,893 yards in a 15-0 run to the Class 4A state title. At the University of Texas, Campbell averaged 1,110 yards per season in his four varsity years. He capped a brilliant Longhorn career in 1977 by winning the Heisman Trophy after he had led the nation in rushing (1,744 yards) and touchdowns (19). The Houston Oilers traded their starting tight end plus three draft choices to make Campbell the first player drafted in 1978. He responded by leading the NFL in rushing his first three seasons, compiling totals of 1,450, 1,697, and 1,934. His career totals with the Houston Oilers (1978-1984) and the New Orleans Saints (1984-1985) include – 9,407 yards, 74 rushing TDs and five Pro Bowls. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1991 and the Texas Sports Hall of Fame in 1996.

Bibliography:
Blair, Sam. Earl Campbell The Driving Force. Word. 1980. Campbell, Earl. The Earl Campbell Story: A Football Great’s Battle with Panic Disorder. New York: ECW, 1999. Miller, Paddy Joe. The Tyler Rose: The Earl Campbell Story. Spring, TX: Schuromil Publishing, 1997. Phillips, Betty Lou. Earl Campbell, Houston Oiler Superstar. New York: David McKay Company, Inc.,1979.

Campbell, Earl

TSHOF Inductees