Rechichar began his professional football career when he was drafted in the first round of the 1952 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns. However, his tenure with the Browns was short-lived, as he was traded during his rookie season to the Baltimore Colts. It was with the Colts that Rechichar made his mark in the league, playing as a defensive back and also contributing as a kicker.
One of the most notable moments in Rechichar's career came on September 27, 1953, when he set an NFL record by kicking a 56-yard field goal against the Chicago Bears. This record-breaking kick stood as the longest field goal in NFL history for 17 years until it was surpassed by Tom Dempsey in 1970. Rechichar's ability to kick long field goals was a rare skill during his era and added a unique dimension to his game.
During his time with the Colts, Rechichar was known for his hard-hitting style and his prowess in the defensive secondary. He earned Pro Bowl honors in 1955 and 1956, showcasing his skills as one of the top defensive players in the league. Rechichar's contributions helped the Colts become a competitive team in the mid-1950s.
After five seasons with the Colts, Rechichar was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1957. He continued to play as a defensive back and kicker for the Steelers, although his time with the team did not yield the same level of personal or team success as his stint with the Colts.
Rechichar's career continued with brief periods on the roster of the New York Titans (later known as the Jets) and the Philadelphia Eagles. He eventually retired from professional football after the 1960 season.
Throughout his NFL career, Bert Rechichar was recognized for his toughness, versatility, and the ability to contribute in multiple phases of the game. His record-setting field goal remained a highlight of his career and a testament to his kicking ability. After retiring from football, Rechichar's legacy lived on through the stories of his powerful leg and his all-around contributions to the teams for which he played.
Bert Rechichar passed away on July 19, 2019, leaving behind a legacy as one of the more versatile players of his era. His career statistics include numerous interceptions and a variety of kicking records, which were particularly impressive given the era in which he played. Rechichar's impact on the game, especially in the realm of placekicking, helped pave the way for the specialists who would follow in subsequent generations.
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