Taylor, Charlie (1941-2022)

Upper Deck Legends 1997, #AL-14

CARD: Upper Deck Legends 1997
ACQUIRED: EBay, 2020

CAREER SNAPSHOT:

  • Selected by the Redskins (NFL) and the Oilers (AFL) in the league’s respective drafts, but opted to play for Washington.
  • Burst onto the scene in 1964 rushing for 755 yards and receiving 814.
  • At the time his 54 receptions by a rookie was an NFL record.
  • In 1966, caught 72 passes for 1119 yards, 12 TDs and an 86 yard long.
  • Redskins officially converted Taylor to LE (left end) in 1967.
  • Caught 70 passes for 990 yards and 9 TDs, including another 86 yard long that year.
  • In 1969, was officially classified a WR and responded with another 71 catch season (883 yards) and a career high 88 yard long reception.
  • Remained remarkably productive during dead ball era during mid-70s, producing 801 yards in 73, 738 in 74, and 744 in 75.
  • Lost entire 76 season to knee injury.
  • Returned for one final season in 77.
  • Finished career with 10,598 yards from scrimmage, and 90 total TDs.
  • At time of retirement, his 649 receptions were an NFL record.
  • Spent next 3 decades with franchise, working first in the front office and later as a WR coach for Washington.
  • Passed away in early 2022, at the age of 80.

ACCOLADES:

  • Rookie of the Year 1964
  • All-Pro 1967
  • Second Team All-Pro 1964, 66, 68-69, 74
  • Pro Bowl 1964-67, 1972-75
  • All-Decade Team 1960s
  • Washington Commanders Ring of Fame
  • 80 Greatest Redskins
  • NFL Receiving leader 1966-67
  • Pro Football Hall of Fame 1984

NOTES:

Charlie hadn’t signed very much since 2012, so I decided to go the certified route when the pandemic hit. It was a fun time being able to hit the EBay market and pick up a few of the Upper Deck Legends set before it blew up.

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