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The Football Star Who Had An Amputation To Avoid Missing a Game
A tale of heroism and folly
What would you do to stay on the field? What would you do to fulfill your dreams? In today’s culture, much is made about following your dreams and realizing your potential — at all costs. But how much is too much in pursuit of excellence? Ronnie Lott might have found the answer.
Ronnie Lott finished his senior season at the University of Southern California, leading the nation in both interceptions (8) and return yards (166). He was unanimously voted to the All-American team in 1980 and followed that up with a first round draft selection in 1981 as the eighth overall pick. He finished his first season second in Rookie of the Year voting, falling short to the eminent Lawrence Taylor. Lott managed to return not one but three interceptions for touchdowns, the only rookie to achieve such a feat. It is safe to say that Ronnie Lott was a certified baller.
But with success comes expectations. Lott didn’t know at the time, but he had joined one of the greatest dynasties in professional football history — the 1980s San Francisco 49ers. The 49ers would end up winning the 1981 Super Bowl, Lott’s first. He would go on to win three more.
