Jimbo Covert emphasizes teamwork in Heart of a Hall of Famer program

Pro Football Hall of Famer No. 330, JIMBO COVERT, recently joined students at Dr. Joaquin Garcia High School in Palm Beach County, Fla., for another installment of the Hall of Fame’s Heart of a Hall of Famer series connected by Extreme Networks.

Covert, a legendary Chicago Bears offensive tackle, shared inspirational stories and lessons from his life on and off the field. He began by reflecting on his upbringing in Beaver County, Pa., near Pittsburgh, a place defined by hard work and family tradition.

“My dad was a steelworker. My grandfather, my great-grandfather, my uncle, my brother and all the males in my family ended up working in the industry, and I thought I was going to be there,” Covert told students. “My dad took me into the steel mill one time, and it was probably 130 degrees inside, and my dad said, ‘Son, you never want to come in here.’ That motivated me!”

That insightful moment sparked a drive in Covert to carve his own path, one that would lead him to All-American honors at the University of Pittsburgh, a Super Bowl championship with the Bears and a Gold Jacket in Canton. His message to students was clear: No matter where you start, you can be destined for greatness.

Covert also emphasized the importance of teamwork, a lesson that carries beyond football. 

“Teamwork is so important, even when you get into the business world,” he said. “Everyone’s job is important. Everyone’s role is important, and you’re part of the machine and how it works. When you are not a good teammate, it just doesn’t work.”

Through his words, students learned that being a valuable member of any team whether on the field, in the classroom or in their community means embracing a unique role and supporting those around them.

To hear more from Covert, watch the full Heart of a Hall of Famer program below or by clicking here.