Don Paul

The Hard-Hitting Leader of the Rams' Defense

Don Paul may not be the first name that comes up when discussing NFL legends, but for those who followed football in the 1950s, he was one of the toughest and most respected defensive players of his era. A three-time Pro Bowler and key leader of the Los Angeles Rams defense, Paul was known for his aggressive playing style, high football IQ, and relentless pursuit of the ball.

Playing as both a linebacker and defensive back, Paul was a versatile defensive weapon, capable of shutting down passing lanes, making bone-crushing tackles, and leading his teammates with intensity and leadership. His presence on the field helped the Rams win the 1951 NFL Championship, cementing his place in franchise history.

Though not a household name today, Paul was one of the toughest and smartest defenders of his generation, setting the standard for defensive excellence in Los Angeles.

The Numbers Behind Paul’s Greatness

• NFL Champion (1951, Los Angeles Rams)
• Three-time Pro Bowler (1952, 1953, 1956)
• Los Angeles Rams Defensive Captain
• Career Stats:
  • 17 career interceptions
  • Multiple defensive touchdowns
  • Over 100 career games played
  • Countless tackles, pass deflections, and forced fumbles

Paul’s ability to play both linebacker and defensive back made him one of the most versatile defenders of the 1950s.

The College Years – A Standout at Washington State

Before he became a defensive leader for the Rams, Paul was already making a name for himself as a standout player at Washington State University.

• Born in Fort Worth, Texas, in 1925, Paul grew up as a natural athlete, excelling in multiple sports.
• He attended Washington State, where he became a star on both offense and defense, playing as a halfback and defensive back.
• His toughness, speed, and football intelligence made him one of the top college prospects of his era.
• The Chicago Cardinals selected him in the 5th round of the 1947 NFL Draft, but he ultimately found his success with the Los Angeles Rams.

Paul’s ability to play multiple positions at a high level made him a valuable asset at every level of the game.

The Rams Years – A Defensive Leader in Los Angeles

Paul joined the Los Angeles Rams in 1948, quickly proving himself as one of the hardest-hitting defenders in football.

• By 1950, he had become one of the best defensive backs in the NFL, leading the Rams defense with his ability to read quarterbacks, force turnovers, and make big plays.
• In 1951, Paul was a key part of the Rams' championship-winning defense, helping them capture the NFL title in a thrilling 24-17 victory over the Cleveland Browns.
• He was known for his aggressive, hard-nosed playing style, often intimidating opposing receivers and ball carriers with his relentless tackling.
• Paul’s leadership made him a team captain, ensuring that the Rams’ defense remained one of the toughest in the league.

His contributions helped establish the Rams as one of the premier teams of the early 1950s, setting the stage for future defensive stars in Los Angeles.

The Later Years – Continuing to Dominate

Even as he aged, Paul remained one of the most respected defensive players in the league, earning Pro Bowl selections in 1952, 1953, and 1956.

• His ability to read offenses and make clutch plays made him one of the most trusted veterans on the team.
• He continued to be a vocal leader, helping younger players develop and keeping the Rams defense competitive.
• By the late 1950s, he transitioned into a mentorship role, passing down his knowledge of the game before retiring.

Paul retired after the 1956 season, leaving behind a legacy as one of the toughest and smartest defenders of his time.

Defining Moments of Paul’s Career

• 1947 – Drafted by the Chicago Cardinals: Begins his professional football journey.
• 1948 – Joins the Los Angeles Rams: Becomes a key piece of one of the league’s best defenses.
• 1951 – NFL Champion: Helps lead the Rams to a championship victory over the Browns.
• 1952 – First Pro Bowl Selection: Establishes himself as one of the NFL’s top defenders.
• 1953-1956 – Continued Dominance: Earns three more Pro Bowl selections while maintaining his status as a defensive leader.
• 1956 – Retirement: Leaves behind a legacy of toughness, leadership, and defensive excellence.

The Most Iconic Don Paul Football Cards

For collectors, Paul’s cards are a rare and valuable piece of early NFL history, representing one of the toughest defensive backs of the 1950s.

• 1952 Bowman Large #80 Don Paul – One of his most famous early career cards, showing him in his prime.
• 1954 Bowman #68 Don Paul – Captures him during his Pro Bowl years with the Rams.
• 1956 Topps #54 Don Paul – A highly collectible card from his final playing years.

These cards are must-haves for Rams fans and vintage collectors, honoring one of the early defensive stars of the NFL.

A Legacy of Toughness and Leadership

Don Paul may not have the same recognition as some of the biggest names in football history, but his impact on the Los Angeles Rams and the NFL is undeniable.

• He was a hard-hitting, intelligent defender who played multiple positions with excellence and leadership.
• His role in the Rams’ 1951 NFL Championship made him a franchise legend.
• He helped pave the way for future generations of defensive backs, proving that toughness and football intelligence could define a player’s success.

A Hard-Hitting Defensive Star, A Champion, and One of the Rams’ Earliest Legends.