1962 Profiles: Dick Christy and Mel West

DICK CHRISTY
Halfback
No. 45
North Carolina State
"The former North Carolina State record holder was the AFL's punt return leader last year, averaging 21.3 yards per return for 18 tries. Christy also ranked sixth in kickoff returns, averaging 24 yards on 16 returns. His longest was a 60-yarder.
The fleet back still holds eight North Carolina State and conference records, including rushing, scoring, most points in one game and longest field goal. The Titans acquired him in a trade with Oakland last year."

-1962 Fleer No. 58

"Dick Christy was the only newcomer to break into the 1961 Titans' starting offensive unit. In their search for a breakaway back, the Titans dealt end Dave Ross to Oakland in August 1961 for Christy. The trade made it a cross-country round trip for the peppery speed merchant, who earlier had been shipped to the coast by the Boston Patriots in a multi-player exchange. He was Boston's top offensive threat in 1960.

Dick is a terror in the open field and a good power runner, as well. The Chester, Pa., flash is also a fine receiver.

A standout rookie with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1958, he led the NFL in kickoff returns. Dick was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in 1959 and joined the Patriots for the third game of the 1960 season.

The husky ex-All-American came to the pros off a sparkling college career at North Carolina State, where he broke all of the school's scoring records."

-1962 New York Titans Official Program (The Polo Grounds)

MEL WEST
Halfback
No. 25
Missouri
"Time and patience are the qualities which will pay off in the case of Mel West, the Missouri mauler who was plucked from the Patriots before the 1961 campaign began.
Marvelous Mel managed 322 yards as a runner from left halfback, averaging 4.5 per carry, and gained an additional 146 serving as a receiver, respectable marks for a rookie.
One of the smallest in the loop at 5-9, his determination to succeed is fierce and he now has the confidence he thought he lost when Boston gave up on him."

-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook