Joe Jacoby

How did Joe Jacoby go from an undrafted college lineman to one of the most dominant offensive tackles in NFL history? Here’s the story.

Born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky, Jacoby starred at Western High School, where his size and athletic ability made him a standout. Staying home in the Derby City to play college football at the University of Louisville, he developed into a formidable offensive lineman for the Cardinals. A three-year letterman and co-captain his senior year, Jacoby was not selected in the 1981 NFL Draft and signed as a free agent with the Washington Redskins.

Initially considered a long shot to make the roster, Jacoby impressed Washington’s coaching staff during training camp with his toughness, footwork, and willingness to learn multiple line positions, earning a starting spot in his second game.

The Redskins offensive line was nicknamed “The Hogs,” and Jacoby was described as the “heart and soul” of the unit. Anchoring an offensive line unit that became synonymous with power football and championship success, he helped set a new standard of play in the NFL.

His imposing 6-foot-7 frame and exceptional leverage allowed him to neutralize some of the league’s elite pass rushers, including future Hall of Famers like Lawrence Taylor and Reggie White. Jacoby’s ability to anchor the edge was a key reason Washington’s passing game flourished throughout the 1980s.

Equally dominant as a run blocker, Jacoby paved the way for Washington’s bruising ground attacks, which were among the most feared in the league. John Riggins’ record-setting playoff run in the 1982 postseason — capped by his iconic 43-yard touchdown in Super Bowl XVII — was made possible in large part by the push from Jacoby and The Hogs.

Over the course of a 13-year career, Jacoby started 167 games, earned four consecutive Pro Bowl selections, and was named First-Team All-Pro three times. He helped lead Washington to four Super Bowl appearances, winning three championships in Super Bowls XVII, XXII, and XXVI. Jacoby was widely regarded as one of the toughest and most reliable linemen of his generation.

After retiring from the NFL, Jacoby had a successful career as a businessman, radio analyst for Washington’s games, and an assistant football coach at Shenandoah and Concordia Universities.

Despite his individual accolades and team success, Jacoby’s NFL Hall of Fame candidacy has been a subject of debate for years. Many teammates, opponents, and analysts consider his exclusion one of the most significant snubs in the Hall’s history.

Photo from Wkikmedia Commons. Topps 1985 Trading Card. Biography by Chris Aldridge.