Bob Talamini

Offensive linemen don’t always get the recognition they deserve, but Bob Talamini, also known as “The Missing Piece”, played a crucial role for the Houston Oilers and the New York Jets. He became known as one of the American Football League’s most durable and decorated offensive guards throughout his nine-year professional career.

Born on January 8, 1939, in Louisville, Kentucky, Talamini attended St. Xavier High School, where he emerged as a promising lineman. Colleges from around the country noticed his talent and potential, but he decided to play collegiately in his home state at the University of Kentucky. As a Wildcat, he earned third-team All‑SEC honors. His college performances caught the attention of AFL scouts when he was selected by the Houston Oilers in the second round of the inaugural AFL Draft in 1959.

From the middle of his rookie season in 1960, Talamini secured the starting left guard spot and held it throughout his eight seasons with the Oilers. He was an immovable force of their offensive line, blocking for legends like George Blanda, Billy Cannon, Charlie Tolar, and Hoyle Granger. Talamini’s hard work and excellence paid off and he was recognized with six consecutive AFL All-Star selections (1962–1967), as well as multiple first-team and second-team All-AFL honors.

He helped anchor the Oilers as they claimed the first two AFL championships (1960 and 1961) and three Eastern Division titles.

In 1968 Talamini was released by the Oilers and was picked up by the New York Jets. In New York, he played a pivotal role and started in Super Bowl III. His blocking, alongside Winston Hill, paved the way for Matt Snell’s 1 touchdown and 121-yard performance as the Jets stunned the highly favored Baltimore Colts in a defining moment for AFL versus NFL.

One of Bob Talamini most impressive career accomplishments is he played in every game from 1960 through 1968, 116 regular-season and playoff games for Houston (110 starts), plus all 14 games and two postseason contests for the Jets (10 starts).

After retirement, Talamini embarked on a successful second career as a certified financial planner in Houston. He also served as president of the Houston Touchdown Club, president of the NFL Alumni Association, and sat on the board of the Las Cruces Symphony.

Talamini passed away on May 30, 2022, at age 83. He left behind a devoted family, including his wife Mary Will (41 years together), children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Images from the New York Jets, Wiki Commons, and Topps 1964 Team Trading Cards. Biography by John T. Broome.