Randy Gradishar
Inducted:
2024
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
233 lb (106 kg)
Born:
March 3, 1952
Warren, Ohio, U.S.
Position:
Linebacker
College:
Ohio State
Randy Gradishar was the heart of Denver’s famed “Orange Crush” defense and one of the most dominant linebackers of the 1970s. Playing his entire career with the Broncos from 1974 to 1983, Gradishar was known for his intelligence, tackling ability, and leadership. He reportedly recorded over 2,000 tackles—an unofficial NFL record at the time—and anchored a Denver defense that led the franchise to its first Super Bowl appearance in 1977.
Gradishar was a 7-time Pro Bowl selection and the 1978 NFL Defensive Player of the Year. He rarely missed a game, was the quarterback of the defense, and consistently made plays in both run and pass coverage. After decades of debate, he was finally inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2024, honoring a career defined by excellence, toughness, and relentless consistency.
Gradishar's Awards and Honors
- NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1978)
- 2× First-team All-Pro (1977, 1978)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (1979, 1981, 1983)
- 7× Pro Bowl (1975, 1977–1979, 1981–1983)
- Denver Broncos Ring of Fame
- Unanimous All-American (1973)
- Consensus All-American (1972)
- 3× First-team All-Big Ten (1971, 1972, 1973)
NFL Records
- Only linebacker in the 1970s with 7 Pro Bowl selections and 20 interceptions
- NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1978)
- Played in 145 of 146 possible games
- First Broncos defender to be named Defensive Player of the Year
NFL Teams
Denver Broncos (1974–1983)
NFL Draft:
1974: 1st round, 14th pick
Denver Broncos
Number Worn:
52, 53
NFL Stats
Seasons:
1974–1983
Games Played:
145
Interceptions:
20
Sacks:
19.5
Fumble Recoveries:
13
Defensive TDs:
4
Unofficial Tackles:
2,049
Pro Bowls:
7
All-Pro Selections:
2 First-Team, 3 Second-Team
