TTM Stats
- Sent: 11/19/2021 | Received: 4/14/2022 | 145 Days
- ’07 Upper Deck
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
The Story of the Autograph
Mack Strong, a stalwart for the Seattle Seahawks, embodied toughness, leadership, and perseverance throughout his NFL career. Known as one of the premier fullbacks of his era, Strong’s journey from an undrafted free agent to a Pro Bowler is a testament to his work ethic and love for the game.
Born on September 11, 1971, in Fort Benning, Georgia, Mack Strong grew up in the deep South, where football is a way of life. His natural athleticism and love for the sport were evident from an early age. Strong attended Brookstone School in Columbus, Georgia, before playing college football at the University of Georgia.
At Georgia, Strong played a key role in the Bulldogs’ backfield, primarily as a blocking fullback. Although he wasn’t a featured runner, his ability to open lanes for the team’s tailbacks and protect the quarterback became his signature. He developed a reputation as a physical, hard-nosed player who did the dirty work that often went unnoticed but was essential for team success.
Despite his contributions at Georgia, Strong went undrafted in the 1993 NFL Draft, a disappointment for many players but not the end of the road for him. The Seattle Seahawks saw potential in Strong and signed him as a free agent. What followed was a remarkable 14-year career that made him a beloved figure in Seattle and one of the NFL’s best fullbacks.
Strong’s early years with the Seahawks were spent honing his craft and solidifying his role as a key part of the team’s offense. He quickly became known for his exceptional blocking skills, allowing running backs like Chris Warren, Ricky Watters, and later Shaun Alexander to flourish. Though Strong wasn’t the one scoring touchdowns, his contributions were critical in helping the Seahawks’ rushing attack become one of the league’s best.
Strong’s peak came in the mid-2000s when he helped pave the way for Shaun Alexander’s MVP season in 2005, during which Alexander rushed for 1,880 yards and 27 touchdowns. That same season, the Seahawks reached the Super Bowl for the first time in franchise history. Strong’s selfless play and leadership were vital components of that team’s success. In 2005 and 2006, Strong was selected to the Pro Bowl, finally receiving recognition for his years of hard work. He was also named a first-team All-Pro in 2005, cementing his status as one of the best fullbacks of his era.
Sadly, Strong’s playing career was cut short in 2007 when he suffered a career-ending spinal cord injury. After a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, doctors discovered a herniated disk and a condition known as spinal stenosis, which made it too dangerous for him to continue playing football. Strong announced his retirement shortly after, leaving the game on his terms with a reputation as one of the toughest players in the league.
Mack Strong’s post-football life has been defined by his commitment to family, community, and giving back. Strong and his wife, Zoe, have been heavily involved in charity work, particularly with their organization, the Mack Strong Team-Works Foundation, which supports at-risk youth. Through mentorship, education, and community outreach, Strong has continued to make an impact off the field.
In addition to his charitable work, Strong has remained connected to the Seahawks organization, serving as an ambassador and working with younger players. His leadership qualities, honed over years of being a selfless teammate, have translated seamlessly into his post-football endeavors.
The Score on Mack Strong – 6.0
I really don’t get a lot of more current football cards signed, so when I do I like it. I just don’t have enough current cards to even catch cards of those who sign. In this case I found one. Of course I don’t think there are a lot of cards for fullbacks out there, but Mack was a good one. This came out really nice and I love the “Go Hawks!” on it.
Thanks Mr. Strong! I’m giving this return a 6.
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Information gathered using Wikipedia and Pro Football Reference.