Zeke Bratkowski was born on October 20, 1931 in Illinois, where he would eventually rise to fame as a professional football player. He attended the University of Georgia, where he excelled as the quarterback for the Georgia Bulldogs, leading the SEC in passing yards twice during his college career.
After impressing scouts with his skills on the field, Bratkowski was selected in the second round of the 1953 NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears. He would go on to have a successful fourteen-year career in the NFL, playing for teams such as the Los Angeles Rams and Green Bay Packers.
During his time in the NFL, Bratkowski established himself as a reliable and talented quarterback. He was known for his strong arm and ability to lead his team to victory in high-pressure situations. He was a key player for the Green Bay Packers during their successful run in the 1960s, where he served as the backup to Hall of Fame quarterback Bart Starr and even won two Super Bowls with the team.
After retiring as a player, Bratkowski transitioned into coaching, where he continued to make a name for himself in the football world.
Bratkowski began his coaching career as an assistant coach for various teams, including the Green Bay Packers and Philadelphia Eagles. He eventually worked his way up to become an offensive coordinator, where he played a crucial role in developing and implementing successful offensive strategies for his teams.
Throughout his coaching career, Bratkowski's knowledge of the game and dedication to his players earned him respect and admiration from those he worked with.
Zeke Bratkowski's contributions to the world of football have not gone unnoticed. He is a member of the Georgia Sports, Green Bay Packers, and National Polish-American Sports Halls of Fame, solidifying his place as a legendary figure in the sport.
Bratkowski's influence on the game extends beyond his own accomplishments, as his son, Bob Bratkowski, has followed in his father's footsteps and found success as an offensive coordinator for NFL teams like the Cincinnati Bengals and Jacksonville Jaguars.
Zeke Bratkowski's impact on the NFL and the sport of football as a whole is undeniable. His skill, determination, and passion for the game have left a lasting legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
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