Waterfield attended the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he played as a quarterback for the Bruins. His college career was interrupted by World War II, during which he served in the U.S. Army Air Forces. Upon returning to UCLA, he continued to demonstrate his exceptional skills as a quarterback, leading the Bruins to a Pacific Coast Conference championship in 1942.
In 1944, Waterfield was drafted by the Cleveland Rams in the fifth round of the NFL Draft. He joined the team in 1945 and quickly established himself as a formidable quarterback. In his rookie season, Waterfield led the Rams to an NFL Championship victory, defeating the Washington Redskins 15-14. His performance earned him the NFL Most Valuable Player award, making him the first rookie to receive this honor.
Waterfield's career with the Rams continued to flourish when the team relocated to Los Angeles in 1946. He became a central figure in the team's offense, known for his strong arm and strategic play. Waterfield was not only a quarterback but also served as the team's kicker and punter, showcasing his versatility on the field. His ability to execute precise passes and make crucial plays under pressure made him a fan favorite and a respected leader among his teammates.
Throughout his career, Waterfield was selected to the Pro Bowl twice, in 1950 and 1951, and was named to the All-Pro team multiple times. He played a pivotal role in leading the Rams to another NFL Championship in 1951, when they defeated the Cleveland Browns 24-17. Waterfield's leadership and skill were instrumental in the Rams' success during this period.
In 1952, Waterfield retired from professional football, but his involvement with the sport did not end there. He transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant coach for the Rams. His knowledge of the game and ability to mentor young players made him a valuable asset to the coaching staff.
Waterfield's legacy extends beyond his playing and coaching career. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1965, a testament to his outstanding contributions to the sport. His number, 7, was retired by the Rams, honoring his impact on the team and the game of football.
Off the field, Waterfield was known for his marriage to actress Jane Russell, which brought him a degree of celebrity outside the sports world. Despite the attention, he remained focused on his love for football and his role in developing the game.
Bob Waterfield passed away on March 25, 1983, but his legacy lives on in the annals of football history.
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