Sauerbrei was selected in the 14th round of the draft by the Cleveland Browns, marking the beginning of his professional football career. He played as a punter and a backup quarterback for the Browns. His tenure with the Browns was marked by his consistent performance and his ability to step up when needed. He was part of the team that won the NFL Championship in 1964, a highlight of his career.
In 1967, Sauerbrei was traded to the New Orleans Saints, where he continued to play as a punter. His time with the Saints was short-lived, and he returned to the Browns in 1968. He continued to play for the Browns until 1972, contributing to the team's success with his punting skills and his ability to fill in as a quarterback when required.
Sauerbrei's career took a turn in 1973 when he joined the World Football League (WFL), playing for the Houston Texans. He played as a punter and a quarterback for the Texans, showcasing his versatility as a player. However, his time with the WFL was brief, as the league folded in 1975.
Throughout his career, Sauerbrei was known for his consistency, versatility, and dedication to the sport. His ability to play both as a punter and a quarterback set him apart from many of his contemporaries. Despite the challenges and changes in his career, Sauerbrei remained committed to the sport, contributing significantly to the teams he played for.
After retiring from professional football, Sauerbrei returned to Ohio, where he continued to be involved in the sport. He coached high school football, sharing his knowledge and experience with younger players. His contributions to football, both as a player and a coach, have left a lasting impact on the sport.
In summary, Harold Sauerbrei was a versatile and dedicated football player who made significant contributions to the sport during his career. From his college days at Ohio University to his time in the NFL and the WFL, Sauerbrei showcased his skills as a punter and a quarterback. His commitment to the sport continued even after his retirement, as he went on to coach high school football, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.
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