The Washington Redskins selected Russ Grimm in the third round, 69th player overall, of the 1981 National Football League Draft. Originally pegged to play center, the position at which he excelled at Pitt, Grimm was moved to left guard where he earned a starting role as a rookie.
The Washington Redskins selected Russ Grimm in the third round, 69th player overall, of the 1981 National Football League Draft. Originally pegged to play center, the position at which he excelled at Pitt, Grimm was moved to left guard where he earned a starting role as a rookie.
A standout athlete in high school, Grimm earned nine varsity letters. He played multiple positions on his football team, QB, LB, and punter. He also was the center on the basketball team.
As a two-year starter at Pitt, Grimm earned honorable mention All-America honors. The Panthers went 22-2 in Grimm's time in the starting lineup.
Grimm played in all 14 games, 13 as a starter, in his rookie season with the Redskins. His performance earned him a place on the NFL's All-Rookie Team.
By his second season in the NFL, Grimm gained much notice from around the league. Teaming with tackle Joe Jacoby, the pair formed what was perhaps the most punishing side of an offensive line in football at the time.
The 6'3", 273-pound Grimm (right) became a steadying force on the Redskins vaunted offensive line of the 1980s that earned the nickname "The Hogs."
It was in his third pro year, in 1983, that Grimm began reaping the rewards of his efforts. That season also marked the first of four consecutive years (1983-86) that he earned All-Pro recognition.
Grimm was also named All-NFC in each of those seasons.
One of the most feared guards of his era, Grimm was elected to the NFL's All-Decade Team of the 1980s.
Grimm appeared in five NFC championship games during his 11-year, 140-game career. He also helped the Redskins to four Super Bowl appearances including wins in Super Bowls XVII, XXII, and XXVI. It was after the Redskins win over the Buffalo Bills in Super Bowl XXVI that Grimm announced his retirement.
Grimm was elected to four consecutive Pro Bowls.
Shortly after being elected to the Hall of Fame, Grimm was fitted for his Hall of Fame jacket.
Accurate measurements are taken by sculptor Blair Buswell for the creation of Grimm's Hall of Fame bust.
Russ Grimm and fellow member of the Class of 2010, Dick LeBeau, share stories during a meeting with Hall of Fame officials in February.
The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim invited Grimm to throw out the ceremonial first pitch on Mar. 29, 2010 during a spring training game against the Kansas City Royals.
Russ Grimm delivers his enshrinement speech from Pro Football Hall of Fame Field at Fawcett Stadium on Aug. 7, 2010.
Russ Grimm poses with his Hall of Fame bust following his enshrinement speech.
Russ Grimm's Hall of Fame ring.
Russ Grimm's Hall of Fame mural.
russ Grimm's Hall of Fame bust.
AP