Today In Sports History (March 21, 1946)

On this day in 1946, Kenny Washington signed with the Los Angeles Rams. He was the first black player to sign with an NFL team in the modern era (post- World War II). Washington played at UCLA, and was the first All-American in the school’s football program. He led the nation in total offensive yards in 1939. Kenny Washington spent the first stint of his professional career with the Hollywood Bears as he went undrafted in the NFL. He elected to play in the Pacific Coast Professional Football League, where he was the highest paid player in the league. It wasn’t until the Cleveland Browns moved to Los Angeles in 1945, when Washington would get a chance in the National Football League. During their transition period, there was outspoken support for Washington to be signed by the Rams. His signing was monumental for the growth of the game of football in America. Kenny Washington passed away at the age of 52 due to heart and lung issues. He may be gone but his role in the game can never be overstated.