Kenny Washington

Kenny Washington was a trailblazing American football player who broke the National Football League's color barrier in 1946 alongside Marion Motley and Bill Willis, paving the way for future generations of African American players like Jim Brown and Joe Greene. Washington's remarkable career was marked by his exceptional speed, agility, and endurance, earning him recognition as one of the greatest players of his era, alongside Don Hutson and Sid Luckman. He was a key figure in the Los Angeles Rams' success during the late 1940s, playing alongside notable teammates like Bob Waterfield and Tommy Harmon. Washington's legacy extends beyond his on-field accomplishments, as he inspired countless young athletes, including Fritz Pollard and Bobby Marshall, to pursue careers in sports.

● Early Life

Kenny Washington was born on August 31, 1918, in Los Angeles, California, to a family of modest means, and grew up in a neighborhood surrounded by notable landmarks like the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and Exposition Park. He developed a passion for sports at an early age, playing baseball and football at Lincoln High School, where he was coached by Burton Smith. Washington's athletic prowess earned him recognition from college scouts, including those from USC and UC Berkeley, but he ultimately chose to attend UCLA due to its proximity to his home and the influence of Tommy Prothro.

● College Career

At UCLA, Washington excelled as a halfback under the guidance of coach Bert LaBrucherie, leading the Bruins to several victories, including a notable win over Cal in 1939. He was a key player in the 1939 College Football All-America Team, alongside other notable athletes like Doak Walker and Charlie Trippi. Washington's college career was marked by his impressive speed, earning him the nickname "The Kingfish," and he was often compared to other talented players of the era, including Frank Sinkwich and Paul Governali. During his time at UCLA, Washington also played basketball and track and field, demonstrating his versatility as an athlete and competing against other top programs like USC and Stanford University.

● Professional Career

Washington's professional career began in 1946 when he signed with the Los Angeles Rams, becoming one of the first African American players in the National Football League, alongside Marion Motley and Bill Willis. He played for the Rams from 1946 to 1948, earning recognition as one of the league's top players, alongside Sid Luckman and Don Hutson. Washington's time in the NFL was marked by his exceptional speed and agility, which allowed him to outmaneuver opponents like the Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers. He was a popular figure in Los Angeles, known for his charismatic personality and his involvement in the local community, including his work with the Los Angeles Urban League and the NAACP.

● Legacy

Kenny Washington's legacy extends far beyond his on-field accomplishments, as he paved the way for future generations of African American players in the National Football League, including Jim Brown and Joe Greene. He was a trailblazer for civil rights in sports, inspiring athletes like Jackie Robinson and Larry Doby to break color barriers in baseball and other sports. Washington's impact on the sport of American football is still felt today, with many regarding him as one of the greatest players of all time, alongside Walter Camp and Jim Thorpe. His legacy continues to inspire young athletes, including those who have played for UCLA and the Los Angeles Rams, and his influence can be seen in the careers of players like Fritz Pollard and Bobby Marshall.

● Personal Life

Kenny Washington's personal life was marked by his strong sense of community and his commitment to social justice, as evident in his work with organizations like the NAACP and the Los Angeles Urban League. He was a devoted husband and father, and his family was an important part of his life, including his wife, Gloria Washington, and his children, who attended schools like UCLA Lab School and Los Angeles High School. Washington's love of sports extended beyond football, as he was an avid golfer and tennis player, often competing in local tournaments at courses like the Riviera Country Club and the Los Angeles Tennis Club. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout his life, including racism and discrimination, Washington remained a beloved figure in Los Angeles, known for his kindness, humility, and generosity, and his legacy continues to inspire people to this day, including those involved with the NFL Players Association and the Pro Football Hall of Fame.