The Oklahoma Sooners and Tampa Bay Buccaneers have declared Lee Roy Selmon Day to honor the legendary defensive end’s lasting impact on college and professional football.
In a remarkable tribute to one of football’s most revered figures, both the Oklahoma Sooners and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have declared a day in honor of Lee Roy Selmon, commemorating his profound impact on college and professional football. This joint celebration not only acknowledges Selmon’s athletic prowess but also his enduring legacy as a humanitarian, educator, and community leader.
Born on October 20, 1954, in Eufaula, Oklahoma, Lee Roy Selmon was the youngest of nine children. His journey to football greatness began at Eufaula High School, where his athleticism and leadership qualities were evident. He went on to play college football at the University of Oklahoma, where he became a cornerstone of one of the most formidable defenses in college football history.
During his tenure at Oklahoma, Selmon was part of back-to-back national championship teams in 1974 and 1975. He earned consensus All-American honors in both years and was the recipient of the prestigious Lombardi and Outland Trophies in 1975, awarded to the nation’s top linemen. His dominance on the field earned him the admiration of his coach, Barry Switzer, who later described him as “the best player I ever coached” .
In 1976, Selmon was selected as the first overall pick in the NFL Draft by the expansion Tampa Bay Buccaneers, marking the beginning of a transformative era for the franchise. Despite the team’s early struggles, Selmon’s presence on the defensive line provided a beacon of hope and excellence.
Over his nine-season career with the Buccaneers, Selmon became the franchise’s all-time leader in sacks with 78.5, a record that still stands. He was named to six Pro Bowls and was honored as the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1979. His contributions were instrumental in leading the Buccaneers to their first NFC Central Division Championship in 1979 and another in 1981 .
Selmon’s impact extended beyond his on-field achievements. He was known for his humility, integrity, and commitment to community service. His off-field endeavors included involvement with various charitable organizations and serving as a mentor to young athletes.
Selmon’s legacy is not confined to his athletic accomplishments. After retiring from professional football, he continued to serve his community through various roles. He became the Associate Athletic Director at the University of South Florida in 1993 and later served as the Athletic Director from 2001 to 2004. His leadership was pivotal in establishing the university’s football program .
In recognition of his contributions, Selmon was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1988 and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1995. He was also honored by the state of Florida with the renaming of the Crosstown Expressway to the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway in 2008 .
The declaration of Lee Roy Selmon Day by both the Oklahoma Sooners and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers serves as a testament to his enduring influence on the sport of football and the communities he touched. This day is set aside to celebrate his achievements, reflect on his contributions, and inspire future generations to emulate his example of excellence and service.
The celebration includes various events, such as commemorative ceremonies, community outreach programs, and educational initiatives aimed at promoting the values that Selmon upheld throughout his life. These activities provide an opportunity for fans and community members to engage with Selmon’s legacy and learn more about the principles that guided his life.
Lee Roy Selmon’s impact on football and his community is immeasurable. Through his athletic prowess, leadership, and unwavering commitment to service, he has left an indelible mark on both the Oklahoma Sooners and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The establishment of Lee Roy Selmon Day ensures that his legacy will continue to inspire and influence generations to come.
As fans and community members come together to celebrate this day, they are reminded of the values that Selmon embodied: dedication, integrity, and a profound sense of responsibility to others. In honoring him, they not only pay tribute to a football legend but also to a man who exemplified the true spirit of the game and the importance of giving back to one’s community.
Lee Roy Selmon’s legacy transcends the football field. His contributions to the sport, his community, and his unwavering commitment to excellence and service have left an indelible mark on the world. The declaration of Lee Roy Selmon Day by the Oklahoma Sooners and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is a fitting tribute to a man whose impact continues to resonate. As we celebrate this day, we honor not just a football legend but a true champion of life.
