Bruiser Kinard
Inducted:
1971
Stats
6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
216 lb (98 kg)
Born:
October 23, 1914
Pelahatchie, Mississippi, U.S.
Died:
September 7, 1985
Jackson, Mississippi, U.S.
Position:
Offensive tackle
College:
Ole Miss
Bruiser Kinard was one of the most dominant offensive tackles of the 1940s, renowned for his strength, agility, and leadership on the line. Born on February 10, 1914, Kinard played the majority of his professional career with the Brooklyn Dodgers (NFL) from 1937 to 1945 and later with the New York Yankees (AAFC).
A six-time All-Pro selection, he was widely regarded as a cornerstone of his teams’ offensive success, combining power blocking with intelligent play recognition. Kinard also served as a player-coach, showcasing his deep understanding of the game.
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1971, he is remembered as one of the early NFL greats who helped set the standard for modern offensive linemen.
Kinard's Awards and Records
- 6× First-team All-Pro (1938, 1940–1944)
- 5× NFL All-Star (1938–1942)
- First-team All-AAFC (1946)
- 2× First-team All-American (1936, 1937)
- 2× First-team All-SEC (1936, 1937)
Notable Achivement
- Recognized for pioneering intelligent, agile offensive line play
- One of the few linemen of his era to also serve as player-coach
- Key contributor to Brooklyn Dodgers’ competitive teams in the 1940s
NFL Teams
As Player-
Brooklyn Dodgers / Tigers (1938–1944)
New York Yankees (1946–1947)
As Coach-
New York Yankees (1947)
As Operator-
Ole Miss (1948–1970)
NFL Draft:
1938: 3rd round, 18th overall pick
Brooklyn Dodgers
Number Worn:
25, 44
NFL Stats
Seasons:
7 (1938–1944)
Games played:
101
Games started:
89
Receiving Yards:
62
Receiving Touchdowns:
1