Gil Mains

Someone once said that shaking Gil “Wild Hoss” Mains’ hand was like grabbing hold of a catcher’s mitt. A mountain of a man with an even bigger heart, who moonlighted as a professional wrestler during the football off-season, Mains still holds the record for the largest championship ring ever made—a size 24, so massive you could drop a quarter through it. Known for his toughness and versatility, Mains played a key role on the Detroit Lions’ defense throughout his nine-year NFL career.

Born in Mount Carmel, Illinois, Gil Mains played his high school football at Mount Carmel High School, where he first began to draw attention from college scouts. He ultimately chose to continue his career at Murray State, where he became a standout over four seasons. Mains helped lead the Thoroughbreds (as they were known at the time) to three Ohio Valley Conference championships in 1948, 1950, and 1951. A team captain and two-time All-Conference selection in 1950 and 1951, he left a lasting mark on the program. After graduating, Mains served two years in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict.

Drafted by the Detroit Lions in 1952, Mains quickly established himself as a physical and intelligent presence on the line. His ability to both rush the passer and hold the edge against the run made him a force on a defense that featured Hall of Famers like Joe Schmidt and Jack Christiansen. His toughness and consistency helped Detroit dominate opponents and make multiple postseason appearances throughout the decade.

Known for his tenacity and rugged playing style, Mains played many different positions along the defensive line, making him a valuable asset. A key contributor to the Lions’ championship runs, Mains helped Detroit capture two NFL titles in 1953 and 1957, earning a reputation as one of the most dependable linemen of his time. He was also recognized as one of the top special team players of his day, and he never missed a kick-off during his Lions’ career.

Off the field, Gil Mains was admired not just for his business savvy but for his deep commitment to charitable causes. In Detroit, he’s often credited as the driving force behind saving Wayne State University’s football program, leading a successful fundraising campaign through the Tarter Gridiron Club. His contributions earned him a place in the Wayne State University Athletics Hall of Fame—making him one of the rare individuals inducted into two collegiate halls of fame, with Murray State bestowing the same honor. Recognized by the Michigan legislature with its “Big Hearted American” award, Mains was celebrated for his leadership of “Hands that Care,” a program that delivered care packages to senior citizens throughout metro Detroit.

Gil Mains passed away on January 10, 2009, at the age of 79, in the city he loved—Detroit.

Images from Alchetron, the free social encyclopedia, and Topps 1960 trading card. Biography By John T. Broome.