Ron Yary, born on July 16, 1946 in Illinois, is a Hall-of-Fame offensive tackle who had a successful NFL career playing for the Minnesota Vikings and LA Rams. Known for his exceptional skills on the field, Yary earned numerous accolades throughout his career, including seven Pro Bowl selections and eight All-Pro honors.
Yary's athletic journey began at Bellflower High School in California, where he excelled in football, baseball, and basketball. His talent on the football field was so remarkable that the school later honored him by naming the field after him. This early success laid the foundation for his future achievements in the sport.
After high school, Yary attended the University of Southern California (USC), where he continued to showcase his exceptional skills on the football field. During his college career, he received prestigious awards such as the Outland Trophy and the Knute Rockne Award, recognizing him as the top offensive lineman in the country. Yary's performance at USC solidified his reputation as one of the best players in the nation.
Yary was selected by the Minnesota Vikings as the first overall pick in the 1968 NFL Draft. He went on to have a remarkable NFL career, spending the majority of his playing years with the Vikings and later joining the LA Rams. Yary's dominance on the offensive line made him a crucial player for both teams, earning him numerous Pro Bowl selections and All-Pro honors.
Off the field, Yary is a proud father of two sons. His oldest son, Jack, was born in 2001, followed by his youngest son, Grant, in 2005. Despite his demanding career in professional football, Yary always made time for his family and prioritized his role as a father.
Throughout his career, Yary credited head coach Bud Grant as one of the biggest influences on his football journey. Grant's guidance and mentorship played a significant role in shaping Yary's playing style and approach to the game. Yary's appreciation for Grant's impact highlights the importance of strong leadership in achieving success in sports.
After retiring from professional football, Yary's legacy as one of the greatest offensive tackles in NFL history continued to grow. His impact on the sport was recognized in 2001 when he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, solidifying his place among the football greats. Yary's dedication to the game and his unmatched skills on the field will forever be remembered in football history.
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