Wednesday, January 20, 2016

1976 Profile: Billy Newsome

Defensive End
No. 87
Grambling
"'He had a poor season last year,' says Lou Holtz, 'because he got into a rut with all those outside moves he was making.'
'You pick a guy like Newsome,' he adds, 'to build a line around.'"

-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1976

"The silent leader on defense, he served as defensive captain under interim head coach Ken Shipp. Newsome is a durable player with size, speed and the ability to work hard at his position and is effective against both the run and pass. He plays with confidence and experience, and coaches like his size and 'mean streak.'
Newsome was acquired from New Orleans in exchange for a No. 1 pick after the 1974 season and started every preseason and regular season game for the Jets at left defensive end. He played a stellar game against the Colts, sacking Bert Jones, and also had fine games against St. Louis and Pittsburgh (1 1/2 sacks).
He spent two seasons with the Saints and became their number one left end. He was voted the club's MVP in 1973 and was defensive captain in '73 and '74. He played 13 games in 1974, sitting out one with a pinched nerve. Billy recorded 10 sacks and led in opponent fumble recoveries with three- size is a real plus in his game.
Billy began his pro career with Baltimore as a No. 3 pick in 1970 and enjoyed a Super Bowl winner's share in his rookie season. As a rookie he intercepted two passes, returning one 19 yards for a touchdown. Billy started for three years as a Colt and went to New Orleans in exchange for the Saints' top pick in 1973.
A Little-All America choice at Grambling, he captained the Tigers in his senior year. One of eight children (three brothers, four sisters), Newsome majored in industrial engineering and spends his off-seasons in Denver. His hometown is Jacksonville, Texas."

-1976 New York Jets Media Guide

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