Johnny Butler (d. 1963 at age 44 from a heart attack) was a professional football player in the National Football League (NFL), known for his versatility and resilience. Over his four-year NFL career, he played for multiple franchises, concluding his professional football journey in 1946 with the Bethlehem Bulldogs in the early American Football League.
Butler began his football career at the University of Tennessee, playing from 1939 to 1941. As a sophomore in 1939, he made headlines with a remarkable 56-yard touchdown run against the University of Alabama.
In 1942, Butler was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the NFL Draft. During his time with the Steelers, he played for both of their wartime merged teams: the "Steagles" (a temporary union with the Philadelphia Eagles in 1943) and "Card-Pitt" (a merger with the Chicago Cardinals in 1944). Despite being drafted into military service in 1943 during World War II, Butler was deemed physically unfit for duty due to poor eyesight and knee issues. Remarkably, he made his first start with the "Steagles" just one day after receiving his 4-F classification.
The 1944 season brought challenges for Butler. He was fined $200 by co-coaches Walt Kiesling and Phil Handler for what they described as "indifferent play." Shortly afterward, he was placed on waivers and claimed by the Brooklyn Tigers.
In 1945, Butler joined the Philadelphia Eagles for his final NFL season. The following year, he transitioned to the Bethlehem Bulldogs of the American Football League after team owner Bob Sell purchased his contract from the Eagles for an undisclosed sum.
Johnny Butler's career reflected the unique dynamics of professional football during wartime, as well as his determination to persevere despite setbacks both on and off the field.
Offered is an original TYPE I photo that measures 8” x 10” in size in Eagles uniform. Signed in blue steel tipped ink. Gorgeous photo and autograph! Neatly etched in original white ink that includes his name, position, and Eagles '45. Perhaps one of a kind.
Item: 13811
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