Kenny Washington was born on August 31, 1918, in Los Angeles, California. From a young age, he showed exceptional athleticism and a love for football. He attended Abraham Lincoln High School, where he quickly became a star on the football field.
After high school, Washington went on to attend the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he continued to excel in football. As a standout running back, he set a school record by rushing for 1,914 yards during his time with the team, a record that stood unbroken for over three decades.
Despite his talent and success at UCLA, Washington faced discrimination and segregation that prevented him from pursuing a professional football career. It wasn't until four years after graduating from college that he was finally given the opportunity to play in the NFL.
In 1946, the Cleveland Rams made history by signing Kenny Washington, making him the first African American player in the NFL's modern era. This move was significant not only for Washington but for the league as a whole, as it marked a step towards integrating professional football.
Washington's impact on the game went beyond breaking the color barrier in the NFL. He was a talented and versatile player who made significant contributions to his team. His skill and determination inspired future generations of African American athletes to pursue their dreams in football.
Despite facing discrimination and adversity throughout his career, Washington never wavered in his commitment to the game he loved. He paved the way for other African American players to follow in his footsteps and achieve success in professional football.
Although his time in the NFL was relatively short, Kenny Washington's contributions to the game and his role in desegregating professional football will always be remembered.