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.
After transferring from JC, Ian Beckles played offensive guard for one year at Indiana in 1989.
Ian grabbed the attention of scouts who watching film of fellow teammate Anthony Thompson.
He’d be selected by both the NFL (5th round, Bucs) and the CFL (1st round, BC Lions) in 1990.
Beckles became a mainstay at RG, playing in 101 games for the team.
In 1997, he hopped over to the Philadelphia Eagles playing for the team for two seasons.
He saw action in training camp with the Jets in ’99 and the Broncos in ’00 before hanging up his cleats for good.
Ian is active in the alternative medicine industry, and is a staunch advocate for marijuana legalization.
He also enjoys spending time in radio and podcasting.
NOTES:
Well I sent Ian two cards for him to sign. Unfortunately he only sent back the Gameday 1992 card, and kept the Score Supplemental. No big deal really- but the long tom format is not something that I’ve never supported on my website yearly updates.
Ah well- minor complaint, but I am sure glad to add him. He’s got a great autograph and a very nice card.
Celebrating the game, the players, the cards, and the autographs for over 25 years.
