Don Schwartz was a professional NFL linebacker for the Baltimore Colts during the 70s and early 80s. I remember watching him play with awe when I was a kid. He was a real leader on the defense. He had a good sense of the game and often made calls that would confuse the offensive team. His powerful tackles, quickness and agility made him one of the best linebackers of his time.
Growing up in Baltimore, we loved to talk and watch the game with Don. He was a real motivator for us young kids who wanted to make it to the NFL. He was always extremely positive and encouraging. Instead of criticizing our mistakes, he would tell us how to correct them and continue to improve. His passion and dedication to the game and his mentorship showed us how to inspire others with our passion.
Don was one of the NFL’s first true tower linebackers. He was a lot faster and stronger than any of the other linebackers of his time. His ability to read the play and his intelligence on the field gave him an edge. He was incredible in pass coverage, often performing above the average linebacker.
Personally, I was always fascinated with Don’s determination and love for the game. He wasn’t afraid of getting hit and he always stepped up when the team needed his help. His leadership was second to none and he made everyone around him better. He always stayed humble and respectful of the game, no matter how much success he personally had.
Don’s career ended shortly after he got injured in 1984. He finished his career with the Philadelphia Eagles as a linebacker and retire shortly after. During his career, he had four Pro Bowl selections and was named to the All Decade Team of the 70’s. His legacy lives on through his sons who both played in the NFL in their own right.
In the end, Don Schwartz was truly a master of his craft and a true game-changer in the NFL. He had a tremendous impact on the game and was a role model for a generation of young linebackers. He’s a legend in Baltimore and his memory still lives on in the hearts of all the kids he inspired.
Stepping into the NFL, Don Schwartz was the real deal. He was an incredible player who could dominate the game, but he was also a great mentor and leader with a firm belief in the integrity of the game. His teammates looked up to him and he inspired a lot of the kids around him to pursue their dreams.
Post-retirement, Don stayed involved in football. He became a coach at various different schools and universities. He also started nonprofits aimed at giving back to the community in Baltimore, DC and surrounding areas. His commitment and dedication to helping others continued long after his career ended, and I’m sure he inspired many more people during this time as well.
Don fully embraced football and dedicated his life to the game. He was a true student of the game and a mentor to the players. His battles in the NFL made him into an even greater person who could inspire and challenge others. He was a true leader who pushed and motivated those around him to strive for greatness.
Don also served as an example to all of us who grew up in Baltimore. He was a role model when it came to hard work, commitment, skill and dedication. His career will forever be remembered as one of the greatest in NFL history. He taught us that if you truly believe and want to work hard, you can achieve your dreams.