Doug English

Doug English anchored one of the NFL's most feared defensive lines during the late 1970s and early 1980s, earning recognition as the heart of Detroit's legendary "Silver Rush" while establishing himself among the era's most dominant interior defenders. Born on August 25, 1953, in Dallas, Texas, English attended Bryan Adams High School before starring at the University of Texas. He helped the Longhorns to three Southwest Conference titles, earning two-time All-SWC honors (1973, 1974) and first-team All-American recognition in 1974 as a member of the Texas Cowboys. He graduated in 1976 with a history degree.

Selected in the second round (38th overall) by the Detroit Lions in 1975, the 6-foot-5, 255-pound English formed the cornerstone of the "Silver Rush" defensive line alongside Al "Bubba" Baker, terrorizing quarterbacks and stuffing runners from 1978 through 1983. The 6-foot-5, 255-pound defensive tackle took the 1980 season off due to chronic injuries but returned with a renewed appreciation for football and opportunities for community service. Over ten NFL seasons (1975-1979, 1981-1985), he accumulated 55.5 sacks (ninth on the Lions all-time list), earning four Pro Bowl selections (1978, 1981-1983) and two first-team All-Pro honors (1982, 1983).

English's playing strengths defined elite interior line play: deceptive quickness for his size creating havoc in the backfields; dominant pass-rushing ability generating consistent quarterback pressure; equally adept at stopping the run; tenacious and opportunistic, making game-changing plays; inspirational leadership earning his teammates' respect.