Circa 1972 Len Dawson Kansas City Chiefs Game-Used Home Jersey

Len Dawson’s Iconic Kansas City Chiefs Jersey: A Testament to Greatness

The Rise of a Hall of Fame Legend

Len Dawson’s journey to becoming one of the most revered quarterbacks in NFL history is a tale of perseverance and triumph. After five challenging seasons as a backup quarterback with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Browns, Dawson’s career truly ignited when he joined the Texans in 1962 and subsequently the Kansas City Chiefs in 1963. Over 19 seasons, he amassed an impressive 82.56 passer rating, cementing his status among the elite forward passers of all time.

A Super Bowl IV Masterclass

Dawson’s legacy is perhaps best encapsulated by his heroic performance in Super Bowl IV, where he led the Kansas City Chiefs to a stunning 23-7 victory over the heavily favored Minnesota Vikings. This game marked the last appearance of an American Football League team in the Super Bowl, and Dawson’s efforts earned him the game’s MVP honors. His strategic prowess was on full display as he orchestrated a near-flawless game, completing 12 of 17 passes and connecting with Otis Taylor on a 46-yard touchdown play. The Chiefs’ defense complemented his efforts by limiting the Vikings’ rushing game to a mere 67 yards, alongside three interceptions and two fumble recoveries.

The Jersey: A Piece of Football History

The red knit home jersey worn by Len Dawson during his illustrious career with the Kansas City Chiefs is a remarkable piece of football memorabilia. On the right front tail, it features the “Rawlings” manufacturer’s tag with wash instructions and jersey size “48”. The iconic player number “16” is emblazoned on the front, back, and both sleeves, while “DAWSON” is proudly displayed across the back on a red nameplate. All numbers and letters are crafted in white on yellow tackle twill, a testament to the era’s style.

• Historical Significance: Worn by Len Dawson during his tenure with the Kansas City Chiefs, a period marked by his leadership and success.
• Iconic Player: Represents Dawson, a Hall of Famer inducted in 1987, whose career was defined by resilience and excellence.
• Condition and Authenticity: The jersey shows moderate quarterback use, with no further alterations beyond the removal of the crotch piece, which has remnants on the front and rear tails.

A Legacy Immortalized

Len Dawson’s contributions to the game of football extend beyond his playing days. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987 is a testament to his enduring impact on the sport. This jersey is not merely a piece of fabric; it is a symbol of Dawson’s indelible mark on the game and a cherished artifact within our sports memorabilia auctions. For those looking to consign football jerseys or explore our extensive collection of game-worn items, Grey Flannel Auctions offers an unparalleled platform to connect with the rich history of sports.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.