In 1986, John Rienstra (OL) was a first round pick of the Pittsburgh Steelers out of Temple.
With exceptional mobility and strength, he was well suited for the Steelers trap run game.
Injuries hampered his first 3 seasons in the NFL until the 1989 season, where John established himself as a starter in 14 contests.
He signed as a Plan B free agent with the Cleveland Browns in 1991.
Started all 16 games for the first time in his career that year at LG.
Retired after the 1992 NFL season due to injury (rotator cuff).
NOTES:
Rienstra was a fearsome OL, who left it all on the field in some 7 injury riddled seasons of play, and 20 some odd scars from his playing days. He earned his nickname for his hard charging style of play, and preference to go for defenders throats. A collegiate power lifter- Rienstra at his peak lifted some 785 pounds.
CARD: Action Packed Whizzer White Award 1991 ACQUIRED: 2023, EBay
CAREER SNAPSHOT:
Played both ways at Grambling University- at OT and DE.
Selected by the Cleveland Browns in the 1956 NFL Draft.
Due to military commitments, did not see the field until 1958.
Traded to Green Bay in 1960 and played exclusively at DE.
A significant contributor to the Packers defensive dominance during the 60s.
Never missed a game during his ten seasons with the Packers.
Captained Green Bay to 5 NFL Championships and 2 Super Bowl wins.
Sacks and tackles were not officially tracked statistics, but unofficially Willie has been credited with in excess of 125 sacks, including 25 in one season.
Retired after the 1969 season.
Dabbled in color commentary and was president of a series of radio stations.
Served as a director on the ’84 US Olympic Committee.
ACCOLADES:
Pro Football Hall of Fame 1981
Byron Whizzer White Award 1969
NAACCP Man of the Year Award 1978
Willie Davis Day 12/21/1969
All Pro 1962-’67
Pro Bowl 1963-’67
Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame
NFL All 1960’s Team
NOTES:
Willie Davis is frequently confused with the WR by the same name and vice versa. Since Davis passed away, I didn’t hold out much hope getting him on anything. The Packer legend remains in demand even after passing and I had a quick and protracted fight with another EBay buyer to get this one off their hands.
EPITAPH:
4/15/20- Willie passed away peacefully at Santa Monica Hospital due to kidney failure at the age of 85.
