Joe DeLamielleure

The Relentless Road Grader Who Paved the Way for Greatness

When it comes to dominant offensive linemen, few were tougher, more relentless, or more technically sound than Joe DeLamielleure. A key piece of one of the most feared offensive lines in NFL history—the Buffalo Bills’ “Electric Company”—DeLamielleure was a six-time Pro Bowler, five-time First-Team All-Pro, and an anchor in the trenches for 13 seasons. His power, intelligence, and durability made him one of the greatest guards to ever play the game, helping open massive holes for O.J. Simpson, including during his legendary 2,003-yard season in 1973, the first 2,000-yard rushing season in NFL history.

Despite playing in an era where linemen rarely received the spotlight, DeLamielleure’s dominance was impossible to ignore. A Hall of Fame inductee in 2003, he was the ultimate technician—powerful in the run game, impenetrable in pass protection, and a relentless competitor every snap. Whether it was in Buffalo or later with the Cleveland Browns, DeLamielleure set the standard for what it meant to be a truly elite offensive lineman.

The Numbers and Honors of a Hall of Fame Career

• 13 NFL Seasons (1973-1985) – Buffalo Bills (1973-1979, 1985), Cleveland Browns (1980-1984)
• 6× Pro Bowler (1975–1980)
• 5× First-Team All-Pro (1975, 1976, 1977, 1979, 1980)
• NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
• Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (2003)
• Buffalo Bills Wall of Fame Inductee
• Member of the College Football Hall of Fame (Inducted 2011 for his Michigan State career)

While offensive linemen don’t have traditional statistics, DeLamielleure’s most important numbers were tied to his impact on the run game. In 1973, the Bills' offensive line helped pave the way for O.J. Simpson’s record-breaking 2,003-yard season, an accomplishment that was only possible due to DeLamielleure’s blocking dominance at guard.

His influence continued even after leaving Buffalo, as he became a leader for the Cleveland Browns’ offensive line, helping the team maintain one of the league’s most balanced attacks throughout the early 1980s.

The Heart of the "Electric Company"

During his time in Buffalo, DeLamielleure was the driving force behind one of the greatest offensive lines in history, known as "The Electric Company"—a unit that literally "turned on the Juice" for O.J. Simpson’s record-breaking performances.

The Bills’ offensive line in the mid-1970s was a nightmare for defenders, allowing the team to dominate in the trenches week after week. Buffalo led the NFL in rushing multiple times during DeLamielleure’s tenure, with his ability to pull, trap, and bulldoze defenders making him an essential part of their success.

What made him special?

✔ Incredible durability – He played in 185 consecutive games, showing unmatched toughness.
✔ Elite run-blocking ability – He pulled like a tackle, clearing lanes for rushers with precision.
✔ A master of technique – He wasn’t just strong—his leverage, footwork, and hand placement were textbook.

Even as defenses keyed in on Buffalo’s ground game, they still couldn’t stop it, thanks in large part to DeLamielleure’s relentless blocking up front.

A Career Resurgence in Cleveland

After seven seasons in Buffalo, DeLamielleure was traded to the Cleveland Browns in 1980, where he continued his dominant play. Immediately, he helped solidify Cleveland’s offensive line, making another First-Team All-Pro selection in 1980.

While his time in Cleveland didn’t bring the same rushing records, his impact was undeniable—the Browns had one of the best offensive units in the AFC, and DeLamielleure remained a leader both on the field and in the locker room.

In 1985, he returned to Buffalo for one final season, ending his career where it began, bringing his relentless toughness back to the Bills before retiring.

Defining Moments of Joe DeLamielleure’s Career

✔ 1973: Leading the Way for the NFL’s First 2,000-Yard Rusher – DeLamielleure was one of the key blockers for O.J. Simpson’s record-breaking 2,003-yard season, an achievement that revolutionized the running back position.

✔ 1975-1980: Becoming the NFL’s Best Guard – A six-time Pro Bowler and five-time All-Pro, he was regarded as the best guard in football for much of the late 1970s.

✔ 1980: Instant Impact in Cleveland – Despite changing teams, he was still one of the best linemen in the league, earning another First-Team All-Pro selection.

✔ 2003: Pro Football Hall of Fame Induction – Though offensive linemen are often overlooked, DeLamielleure finally received the recognition he deserved, cementing his place among the all-time greats.

The Most Iconic Joe DeLamielleure Football Cards

For collectors, DeLamielleure’s football cards hold special significance, representing one of the greatest offensive linemen of the 1970s and 80s:

• 1974 Topps #371 Joe DeLamielleure Rookie Card – His official rookie card and a must-have for Hall of Fame collectors.
• 1976 Topps #220 Joe DeLamielleure – Capturing him in his early years as a dominant Bills lineman.
• 1981 Topps #161 Joe DeLamielleure – A Cleveland Browns issue showing his continued excellence.

The Legacy of Joe DeLamielleure – The Standard of Toughness in the Trenches

Joe DeLamielleure wasn’t just an offensive lineman—he was a technician, a warrior, and a leader. He played every single snap with intensity, helping shape the NFL’s rushing attack in the 1970s and 80s. Whether it was his dominance with the Buffalo Bills, his impact on the Cleveland Browns, or his consistent All-Pro excellence, DeLamielleure set a standard that linemen still strive to match today.

His name may not appear on highlight reels, but every rushing yard gained behind him was a direct result of his skill, power, and dedication.

A Hall of Famer. A road grader. A legend in the trenches.

Joe DeLamielleure’s legacy is one of excellence, grit, and unmatched dominance in the trenches—and his impact on the game will never be forgotten.