Ollie Matson

The Multi-Talented Hall of Famer Who Redefined Versatility

Few players in NFL history have possessed the speed, power, and versatility of Ollie Matson. A Pro Football Hall of Famer, six-time Pro Bowler, and Olympic medalist, Matson was one of the most electrifying and complete players of his era, excelling as a running back, receiver, return specialist, and defensive back.

In an era when two-way players were rare, Matson’s ability to dominate in multiple roles made him one of the most valuable players in the NFL. Whether it was outrunning defenders as a halfback, returning kicks for touchdowns, or playing elite defense, he was the kind of weapon that coaches could build an entire team around.

His breakaway speed, developed from his days as a world-class sprinter, made him one of the most feared offensive players in football. When Matson got into the open field, few defenders ever caught him. His powerful running style and ability to change direction on a dime made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

Even decades after his retirement, Matson remains one of the most unique and gifted players to ever play the game, a true pioneer of the do-it-all superstar role.

The Numbers Behind Matson’s Greatness

• Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1972, first-ballot)
• Six-time Pro Bowler (1952, 1954, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959)
• Two-time First-Team All-Pro (1952, 1955)
• NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
• Olympic Silver & Bronze Medalist (1952 Helsinki Games, Track & Field)
• Career Stats:
  • 5,173 rushing yards & 40 rushing touchdowns
  • 3,285 receiving yards & 23 receiving touchdowns
  • 9,660 total yards from scrimmage
  • 6 career punt/kick return touchdowns
  • 2 career interceptions as a defensive back

Matson was one of the first true all-purpose backs, able to run, catch, return, and even play defense at a Hall of Fame level. His unique skill set set the stage for future legends like Gale Sayers, Marshall Faulk, and LaDainian Tomlinson.

The College Years – A Record-Breaking Superstar

Before Matson became an NFL Hall of Famer, he was already a living legend in college football.

• Born in Trinity, Texas, in 1930, Matson grew up in Los Angeles, where he became a high school track and football star.
• He played college football at the University of San Francisco (USF), where he put up one of the greatest seasons in college football history.
• In 1951, Matson led the nation in rushing yards (1,566) and touchdowns (21) while averaging 8.2 yards per carry.
• He was named a consensus All-American and finished ninth in Heisman Trophy voting, despite playing for a small, independent program.
• The 1951 USF team went undefeated (9-0) but was snubbed from a bowl game because the school refused to leave behind its Black players, including Matson.

Despite the racial barriers, Matson’s dominance at USF made him a top NFL prospect—but before heading to the pros, he had one more stop to make.

Olympic Glory – A World-Class Sprinter

Matson’s speed was so legendary that he competed in the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, representing Team USA in track and field.

• He won a bronze medal in the 400-meter dash and a silver medal in the 4x400-meter relay, proving he was one of the fastest athletes in the world.
• His world-class speed made him one of the most dangerous open-field runners the NFL had ever seen.
• After making history on the track, Matson turned his attention to professional football, where he would change the game forever.

NFL Career – A Do-It-All Superstar

Matson was selected third overall in the 1952 NFL Draft by the Chicago Cardinals, immediately making an impact in his rookie season.

• He rushed for 759 yards, scored 9 total touchdowns, and led the NFL in all-purpose yards, earning Pro Bowl and First-Team All-Pro honors as a rookie.
• In his second season, he proved his two-way ability, playing as a defensive back and recording two interceptions.
• In 1955, he led the NFL in rushing touchdowns and total yards from scrimmage, showing his ability to take over games.

Matson was a one-man offense for the struggling Cardinals, often carrying the team with his explosive speed and all-around skills.

The Blockbuster Trade – A Record 9-Player Deal

In 1959, the Los Angeles Rams traded NINE players for Ollie Matson, making it one of the biggest trades in NFL history at the time.

• The Rams hoped Matson would revitalize their offense, but he spent most of his years in LA as a playmaker on struggling teams.
• He continued to be one of the best all-purpose players in football, but the Rams failed to build a championship roster around him.
• He spent four years in LA before finishing his career with the Detroit Lions (1963) and Philadelphia Eagles (1964-1966).

Though Matson never won a championship, his impact on the game was undeniable.

Defining Moments of Matson’s Career

• 1952 – Rookie Sensation: Earns First-Team All-Pro honors while leading the NFL in all-purpose yards.
• 1952 Olympics – World-Class Speed: Wins silver and bronze medals as an Olympic sprinter.
• 1955 – NFL Rushing Leader: Leads the league in rushing touchdowns and total yards from scrimmage.
• 1959 – The Record-Setting Trade: Becomes the centerpiece of a nine-player trade to the Rams.
• 1964-1966 – Final Years in Philly: Plays his last seasons as a veteran leader and mentor.
• 1972 – Hall of Fame Induction: Becomes one of the first multi-purpose players to enter the Hall of Fame.

The Most Iconic Ollie Matson Football Cards

For collectors, Matson’s cards represent one of the most versatile players of all time.

• 1952 Bowman Large #127 Ollie Matson Rookie Card – His most valuable and sought-after card.
• 1955 Topps #84 Ollie Matson – A classic from his prime years with the Cardinals.
• 1959 Topps #150 Ollie Matson – Released the year of his record-breaking trade to the Rams.

These cards remain highly collectible, as Matson is one of the most important figures in NFL history.

A Legacy That Transcends the Game

Though Ollie Matson never won a Super Bowl, his legacy is greater than championships.

• He was one of the first true multi-purpose stars, dominating as a runner, receiver, returner, and defensive back.
• His speed and power made him a prototype for modern NFL backs, paving the way for players like Gale Sayers, Barry Sanders, and Marshall Faulk.
• He was one of the greatest athletes to ever play in the NFL, proving it on the track and the gridiron.

Even today, his name belongs among the all-time greats.

An Olympic Sprinter, A Versatile Playmaker, and One of the Most Unique Hall of Famers in NFL History.