Modzelewski, "Dick" (Richard)
Football
b. Feb. 16, 1931, West Natrona, PA
The 6-foot-2, 260-pound Modzelewski was nicknamed "Little Mo" only because his older brother, Ed, was known as "Mighty Mo." Modzelewski started at tackle for the University of Maryland for four seasons and was an All-American and winner of the Outland Trophy as the nation's outstanding college lineman in 1952.
He played defensive tackle for the Washington Redskins in 1953 and 1954, then signed a contract with the Calgary Stampeders of the CFL. However, the Stampeders and Redskins reached an agreement that allowed Modzelewski to stay in Washington.
"Little Mo" went to the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1956, played for the New York Giants from 1956 through 1963, and then joined the Cleveland Browns. He retired after the 1966 season.
Modzelewski, who once started 180 consecutive games, played for two NFL champions, the 1956 Giants and 1964 Browns. After retiring, Modzelewski served as a scout, defensive line coach, and defensive coordinator for several NFL teams. He was interim coach of the Cleveland Browns for part of the 1977 season.