American · Paris, USA · Born 3 April 1934 · Died 2005-07-18Baltimore Colts offensive lineman considered one of the greatest ever, protecting Johnny Unitas for over a decade.
Jim Parker became the first player inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame solely on the strength of his offensive line career in 1973, a barrier broken by a Baltimore Colt who spent eight Pro Bowl seasons protecting Johnny Unitas and then made All-Pro again after switching to guard.. He died on 18 July 2005, at age 71, in Columbia, Maryland.
Famous For
Colts offensive lineman, blocked for Unitas
Playing Style
How They Played
Mobile, athletic lineman who excelled at both guard and tackle with exceptional blocking technique
Legacy
Lasting Impact
Transformed offensive line play and paved the way for recognition of linemen in professional football
Honours & Achievements
Career Honours
- Pro Football Hall of Fame 1973
- 8x Pro Bowl
- 8x First-team All-Pro
- 2x NFL champion (1958, 1959)
Team Career
| Team | Period | Games | Jersey |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baltimore Colts | 1957–1967 | 135 | #77 |
Career Journey
Timeline
1957
🎯 NFL debut with Baltimore Colts
1958
🏆 NFL Championship victory over New York Giants
1959
🏆 NFL Championship victory over New York Giants
1959
🥇 First Pro Bowl selection
1960
🥇 First-team All-Pro selection
1967
🎯 Final season with Baltimore Colts
1973
🥇 Inducted into Pro Football Hall of Fame
American Athletes