Did Burt Reynolds play professional football?

By Jason Bolton December 20, 2023 10:54

Burt Reynolds was a multi-talented actor, known for his rugged good looks, charismatic personality, and iconic roles in movies such as "Smokey and the Bandit" and "Deliverance." However, before he became a Hollywood legend, Reynolds had a promising career in professional football. This article will explore Burt Reynolds' football career, his achievements, and how his transition from football to acting shaped his life.

Burt Reynolds' Football Career

Burt Reynolds, born on February 11, 1936, in Lansing, Michigan, had a passion for sports from a young age. In high school, he excelled in various athletic endeavors, including football. Reynolds played as a halfback at Palm Beach High School in Florida, where he gained recognition for his exceptional skills on the field.

After graduating from high school, Reynolds received a scholarship to play football at Florida State University (FSU). He joined the FSU Seminoles football team as a fullback in 1954. Reynolds' talent and dedication earned him the starting position, and he quickly became a key player for the team.

During his sophomore year, Reynolds suffered a knee injury that hampered his football career. Despite the setback, he continued playing and eventually became one of the top running backs in the conference. Reynolds' impressive performance on the field caught the attention of professional football scouts.

Burt Reynolds' Shot at the Pros

In 1956, Burt Reynolds was drafted by the Baltimore Colts in the 20th round of the NFL Draft. This was a significant achievement for Reynolds, as it marked his entry into the world of professional football. However, his dreams of playing in the NFL were short-lived.

Unfortunately, Reynolds suffered another serious knee injury during training camp, which ultimately ended his professional football career. Devastated by the setback, Reynolds had to make a difficult decision about his future. It was during this time that he discovered his passion for acting.

Transition to Acting

While recovering from his football injuries, Burt Reynolds decided to pursue a career in acting. He attended acting classes in New York City and eventually moved to Hollywood to seek opportunities in the film industry. Reynolds' athletic background and rugged charm made him a natural fit for action-packed and charismatic roles.

In 1962, Reynolds made his television debut in the series "Riverboat." He went on to appear in numerous television shows and movies, steadily building his reputation as a versatile actor. However, it was his breakout role in the film "Deliverance" in 1972 that catapulted him to stardom. His portrayal of Lewis Medlock, a fearless outdoorsman, showcased his talent and charisma, making him a household name.

Football Influence on Reynolds' Acting Career

Although Burt Reynolds' football career was cut short, his time on the field had a lasting impact on his acting career. Reynolds' athleticism and physicality were evident in many of his roles, where he often performed his stunts and action sequences. His football background also instilled in him a strong work ethic, discipline, and determination, which served him well in the competitive world of acting.

Reynolds' love for sports extended beyond football. He also had a passion for racing and even co-owned a NASCAR Winston Cup team in the late 1990s. This love for sports and adventure was often reflected in the characters he portrayed, resonating with audiences worldwide.

Legacy and Recognition

Burt Reynolds' contributions to the world of entertainment earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. He received an Academy Award nomination for his role in "Boogie Nights" in 1997 and won several Golden Globe Awards, including Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy for his role in "Smokey and the Bandit."

Despite his success in acting, Reynolds never forgot his football roots. He remained a passionate supporter of Florida State University and often attended their football games. In 1997, Reynolds was even inducted into the Florida State University Hall of Fame, recognizing his achievements both on and off the field.

Although Burt Reynolds' professional football career was cut short due to injuries, his undeniable talent and determination led him to make a successful transition into the world of acting. His athletic background not only influenced his physicality and work ethic in his roles but also remained an integral part of his identity throughout his life.

Burt Reynolds' journey from the football field to the silver screen serves as a testament to his resilience and adaptability. His charismatic performances and memorable characters have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment, cementing his status as a Hollywood legend.