In this episode, we’re going to do something a little different. A few weeks ago, Los Angeles Rams’ great Eddie Meador passed away at the age of 86. This was only a few weeks after Eddie made it to the final six for the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Class of 2024 senior’s finalists list but did not survive the final cut to three. The senior’s finalists selected were Denver Broncos linebacker Randy Gradishar; defensive tackle for the New England Patriots, Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers Steve McMichael; and Art Powell, who was an end for the Philadelphia Eagles, New York Titans (who are now the New York Jets), Oakland Raiders, Buffalo Bills, and Minnesota Vikings.
Eddie has an excellent case for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He still holds several team records, even though he retired after the 1970 season. He has the record for most interceptions in franchise history with 46. He blocked 10 kicks, which is a team record. He had 18 defensive fumble recoveries, another franchise record. He also had five interception returns for a touchdown, which is tied for first in team history. According to the late Merlin Olsen, a long-time teammate and member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Meador was “one of the finest defensive backs I have ever seen. Outstanding in coverage and a fierce tackler, he had a remarkable nose for the football that allowed him to come up with big plays again and again during his career.” Only the Hall of Fame selectors know why Eddie didn’t make the cut.
FLA founder Ken Crippen was fortunate enough to have interviewed Eddie back in 2012 for an article he wrote for National Football Post. He also talked to two members of the Meador family, and they have agreed to allow us to release the audio from that interview, and that is what you are about to hear.
The difference with this episode is that we will intersperse Eddie’s commentary throughout this narrative. As a result, there will be Pro Football History Nuggets of the Week scattered throughout the episode as we tell Eddie’s story.
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