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Don Bosseler (AP Photo)

Don Bosseler (1936–2024), College Football Hall of Famer

by Linnea Crowther

Don Bosseler was a fullback for the Washington Redskins in the 1950s and ‘60s after an All-American college career at the University of Miami. 

Don Bosseler’s legacy 

A high school football star in upstate New York, Bosseler was heavily recruited, choosing the University of Miami Hurricanes. He became the face of the team and one of its top assets, helping them reach new heights against their rivals at Florida State and the University of Florida. He was an All-American in 1956, his senior year, and was named MVP at the Senior Bowl. In 1970, he was inducted into the university’s Sports Hall of Fame, and in 1990, he became a member of the College Football Hall of Fame. 

Bosseler’s strong college career made him a hot prospect for the NFL. He was chosen in the first round of the draft by the Redskins, the ninth overall selection. He remained with the team for his entire eight-season career, and he was a Pro Bowl pick in 1959. In 2012, he was named among the 80 Greatest Redskins. 

After his 1964 retirement from the NFL, Bosseler briefly did radio commentary for the Miami Dolphins, then worked in finance. 

Tributes to Don Bosseler 

Full obituary: ESPN 

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