Joe Federspiel

Joe Federspiel’s football journey began at DeSales High School in Louisville, continued with All-American honors at the University of Kentucky, and culminated in a ten-year NFL career as a standout linebacker for the New Orleans Saints.

An outstanding high school football player, Federspiel committed to the University of Kentucky, where he played from 1968 to 1971. A standout linebacker, he earned First-Team All-SEC and Second-Team All-American honors in 1971. His performance secured him a place on Kentucky’s All-Time Team.

Drafted in the fourth round (99th overall) of the 1972 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints, Joe Federspiel quickly emerged as a key figure on the team’s defense throughout the 1970s. Playing for a franchise still finding its footing after being founded in 1967, Federspiel brought consistency and leadership, starting 125 of 130 games for the Saints. He concluded his NFL career with the Baltimore Colts in 1981 and had a brief stint with the Chicago Blitz of the USFL in 1983.

After retiring from professional football, Federspiel transitioned to officiating, serving as an umpire for Southeastern Conference (SEC) football games. Due to SEC rules, he was prohibited from officiating contests involving his alma mater, the University of Kentucky.

In recognition of his impact on the franchise, Federspiel was inducted into the New Orleans Saints Hall of Fame in 1993.

Images from New Orleans Saints and Collegiate Collections Trading Cards.