Celebrating the Greats of Kent Football
The Kent Football League has a rich history spanning over a century, boasting an impressive legacy of legendary players and coaches who have graced the local pitches. In a region renowned for its passionate fan base and fierce rivalries, these individuals have left an indelible mark, inspiring generations of aspiring footballers and captivating the hearts of devoted supporters.
As the 2022-23 season gets underway, it is the perfect time to celebrate the remarkable achievements of these Kent football icons. From record-breaking performances to championship triumphs, these players and coaches have etched their names in the annals of the league’s storied history, serving as shining examples of what can be accomplished with unwavering dedication and unparalleled skill.
Honoring the Greats of Kent Football
The Kent Football League is thrilled to recognize the lifetime achievements of several legends who have left an indelible impact on the game within the region. These individuals have not only showcased their exceptional talents on the pitch but have also inspired countless others through their unwavering commitment and remarkable contributions to the sport they love.
Julian Edelman: The Quarterback-Turned-Superstar
One of the most celebrated Kent football alumni is Julian Edelman, who made his mark as a versatile quarterback for the Kent State Golden Flashes before embarking on a stellar career in the National Football League. Edelman’s time at Kent State saw him break records for rushing and passing yards, cementing his status as a dynamic offensive threat.
After transferring to Kent State his sophomore year, Edelman became the starting quarterback, leading the team with his exceptional play. His total offensive output in a single season shattered the previous record held by the legendary Joshua Cribbs, another Kent State standout. Edelman’s ability to excel as both a passer and a runner made him a formidable force on the field.
Edelman’s success at the collegiate level paved the way for his professional journey, as he was selected in the 2009 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots. Transitioning to a wide receiver role, Edelman went on to win three Super Bowl championships with the Patriots, becoming a key part of their dynasty. His grit, determination, and clutch performances on the biggest stages have solidified his legacy as one of the most beloved figures in Kent football history.
James Harrison: The Undrafted Titan
Another Kent football legend who has captivated fans is James Harrison, a linebacker whose journey from walk-on to NFL superstar is the stuff of dreams. Harrison’s path to success was anything but conventional, as he initially struggled to find a place on the Kent State roster before eventually blossoming into a dominant defensive force.
After a redshirt year, Harrison transitioned into a starting role and quickly made his presence felt, leading the Mid-American Conference in sacks during his senior season. Despite going undrafted, Harrison’s relentless work ethic and unwavering determination caught the attention of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who signed him in 2004.
With the Steelers, Harrison etched his name in the franchise’s record books, becoming the team’s all-time sack leader. In a remarkable feat, he also became the only undrafted player in NFL history to win the Defensive Player of the Year award, cementing his status as one of the league’s most feared and respected defenders.
Harrison’s inspiring journey from Kent State walk-on to Steelers legend serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the enduring spirit of Kent football. His legacy continues to inspire aspiring players, reminding them that with dedication and hard work, anything is possible.
Joshua Cribbs: The Multi-Talented Dynamo
One of the most revered figures in Kent football history is Joshua Cribbs, a true all-around offensive powerhouse who etched his name in the record books during his time with the Golden Flashes. Cribbs’ exploits on the field were nothing short of remarkable, as he amassed an astounding 10,839 yards of total offense, solidifying his status as the program’s all-time offensive leader.
In addition to his impressive yardage, Cribbs also holds the Kent State records for rushing touchdowns, pass completions, and total points scored, showcasing his unparalleled versatility and impact on the game. His ability to excel as both a passer and a runner made him a nightmare for opposing defenses, and his electrifying performances captivated the Kent faithful.
Cribbs’ success at the collegiate level paved the way for his professional career, as he signed with the Cleveland Browns as an undrafted free agent. During his time in the NFL, Cribbs etched his name in the record books once again, setting a franchise record for return yards in a single season and tying the league’s career record for most touchdowns on kickoff returns in a season.
Cribbs’ legacy as a Kent football icon extends far beyond his individual accolades, as he embodied the spirit and passion of the Kent community. His unwavering dedication and relentless play on the field inspired generations of Kent football fans, solidifying his status as one of the most beloved figures in the league’s storied history.
Antonio Gates: The Basketballer-Turned-NFL Star
Perhaps the most unlikely Kent football legend is Antonio Gates, who, despite not playing football in college, went on to become one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history. Gates’ path to greatness began on the basketball court, where he starred for the Kent State Golden Flashes, even helping the team reach the historic 2001 Cinderella season.
Told that he would not succeed in the NBA due to his unique playing style, Gates decided to try his hand at professional football, signing with the San Diego Chargers as an undrafted free agent in 2003. It was a gamble that paid off in a big way, as Gates went on to establish himself as one of the most dominant and versatile tight ends in the NFL.
During his 16-year career with the Chargers, Gates set franchise records for receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns, while also holding the NFL record for most touchdown receptions by a tight end. His combination of size, athleticism, and reliable hands made him a nightmare for opposing defenses, and he solidified his status as a future Hall of Famer.
Gates’ remarkable journey from Kent State basketball player to NFL superstar is a testament to the enduring spirit of Kent football. His ability to adapt and excel in a sport he had never played before college serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere, reminding them that with determination and a relentless work ethic, anything is possible.
Jack Lambert: The Iconic Linebacker
Another revered figure in Kent football history is Jack Lambert, a legendary linebacker who led the Golden Flashes to their first and only Mid-American Conference championship in 1972. Lambert’s impact on the game extended far beyond his college career, as he went on to become one of the greatest linebackers in NFL history with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
During his time at Kent State, Lambert was a force to be reckoned with, earning recognition as the MAC Defensive Player of the Year and leading the league in tackles. His tenacity, ferocity, and expert tackling ability made him a dominant presence on the field, and he quickly established himself as one of the most feared defenders in the conference.
Lambert’s success at the collegiate level paved the way for his professional career, as he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1974. With the Steelers, Lambert cemented his legacy as one of the greatest linebackers of his era, anchoring a defense that won four Super Bowl championships. His uncompromising style of play and relentless pursuit of the ball carrier made him a revered figure in the NFL, and he was ultimately inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in recognition of his exceptional career.
The legacy of Jack Lambert serves as a testament to the rich tradition of Kent football, a program that has produced some of the most iconic players in the sport’s history. His impact on the game, both at the collegiate and professional levels, continues to inspire and captivate the Kent community, solidifying his status as a true legend of the Kent Football League.
Honoring the Greats, Inspiring the Future
As the Kent Football League prepares to embark on another thrilling season, it is essential to reflect on the remarkable achievements of the legends who have graced its pitches. From the dynamic playmaking of Julian Edelman and Joshua Cribbs to the unrelenting determination of James Harrison and the versatility of Antonio Gates, these individuals have left an indelible mark on the game, inspiring generations of aspiring footballers and captivating the hearts of devoted Kent fans.
The Kent Football League takes great pride in honoring these exceptional athletes and coaches, whose legacies will continue to shape the future of the sport in the region. Their stories of triumph, perseverance, and excellence serve as a shining example of what can be accomplished through hard work, dedication, and an unwavering passion for the game.
As the current crop of Kent football players take the field, they do so with the knowledge that they are part of a rich tradition, one that has been forged by the legends who have come before them. And as the league continues to evolve and grow, the legacy of these icons will undoubtedly inspire new generations of Kent football heroes, ensuring that the spirit of the game lives on for years to come.
So, as we embark on another thrilling season of Kent football, let us celebrate the legends who have made this league so special, and let their achievements serve as a reminder of the boundless potential that lies within every player who dons the colors of the Kent Football League.
