Jackie Slater, a veteran of twenty National Football League seasons, was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in the third round of the 1976 NFL Draft
Slater is tied for third all time for the most seasons played in the history of the league.
Slater became a starter in 1979 and was a part of an offensive line that surrendered just 29 sacks and helped the Rams’ offense finish second in the NFL in total yards gained with 6,006.
Slater was a first- or second-team all-pro selection following five different seasons and a first- or second-team All-NFC choice, seven times.
Twenty-four different quarterbacks and 37 different running backs played behind Slater during his long career.
A popular player known for his work ethic and leadership skills, Slater earned seven Pro Bowl berths. His first selection followed the 1983 season, and then was chosen in consecutive years from 1985 through 1990.
Slater was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2001, his first year of eligibility.