Vince Papale
Vince Papale is a former professional American football player who beat the odds and made the Philadelphia Eagles' roster as a 30-year-old rookie with no NFL experience.
Football Player
February 9, 1946
Aquarius
79
Glenolden, Pennsylvania
Vince Papale, a former American football player, is renowned for his inspiring journey to the NFL as a 30-year-old rookie with no prior experience. He played as a wide receiver and special teams player for the Philadelphia Eagles from 1976 to 1978. Apart from his football career, Papale has been a teacher, motivational speaker, sports commentator, and ambassador for the Philadelphia Eagles. He has also been inducted into the Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame, authored two books, hosted a sports radio show, and worked as a sports analyst for local news stations.
After his time with the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles, Papale briefly played professional football in the short-lived World Football League. In 1979, he joined the Philadelphia Bell, where he caught three touchdown passes before the league’s collapse later that year.
In recent years, Vince Papale’s son, Vincent Joseph Papale, has also gained recognition in football. As a wide receiver, he has played for teams such as the Montreal Alouettes of the Canadian Football League (CFL), TSL Conquerors of The Spring League (TSL), and currently represents the Memphis Showboats of the United States Football League (USFL). Vincent Papale played college football for Delaware.
Vince Papale’s story of overcoming the odds and joining the NFL as a 30-year-old rookie remains an inspiration. He is a cherished figure in Philadelphia sports history, and his legacy as a symbol of perseverance and determination endures.