Andy Robustelli, an NFL Hall of Fame defensive end who played with the New York Giants from 1956-1964, died today at age 85. Robustelli also served at Giants director of football operations from 1974-78. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1971.
In Lew Freedman's book 'New York Giants: The Complete Illustrated History,' former Giants coach Allie Sherman had this to say about Robustelli:
"Watch Andy on the field and you'll be studying a real master," Sherman said. "Terrific speed of mind, hands and foot make him the best."
Robustelli was a seven-time Pro Bowler and six-time first-team All-Pro selection. The 6-foot-2, 230-pound Robustelli spent the first five years of his NFL career with the Los Angeles Rams. In 1962. The Rams traded Robustelli to the Giants after the 195 season when Robustelli threatened to retire if he could not play closer to his Stamford, Conn. home. Robustelli won the Bert Bell Award as the league's Player of the Year.