Jim Parker (footballer)

Jim Parker (April 3, 1934 – July 18, 2005) was an American professional football player who was an offensive lineman in the National Football League (NFL) for the Baltimore Colts from 1957 to 1968. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest offensive linemen in NFL history.

Parker played college football at Ohio State University, where he was a two-time All-American and won the Outland Trophy in 1956. He was drafted by the Colts in the first round of the 1957 NFL Draft.

With the Colts, Parker played primarily as an offensive guard, but also saw time at offensive tackle. He was selected to eight consecutive Pro Bowls (1958-1965) and was named an All-Pro eight times (1958-1965). He was a key member of the Colts teams that won NFL championships in 1958 and 1959.

Known for his exceptional strength, agility, and intelligence, Parker revolutionized the offensive guard position. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1973. He was also named to the NFL's 1960s All-Decade Team and the NFL's 75th Anniversary All-Time Team. After his playing career, he worked as a union official and served on the board of directors of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.