Jeff Herrod: CLASSIC COLT

9-29-2007  

Herrod was a fixture at linebacker for the Colts for ten seasons stretching from 1988-1998.  Though lightly regarded out of college (he was a 9^th round choice), he played his way into the starting lineup and started all 16 games his rookie year.  His signature moment with the team was his interception return for a touch down against the Ravens in 1996.  The score sealed a win for the Colts and gave them a 5-1 record.  After streaking down the sideline for 68 yards, he dove head first into the end zone like Superman. 

 What really seals his inclusion in the Classic Colts is this quote from Colts.com given after his one season spent in Philly at the end of his career.  When asked to explain why he would retire at the relatively early age of 32, Herrod said, “I can actually come out some days and feel like I’m 20 years old,” he said at the time. “Some days, I come out and I feel like . . . ‘wow.’ I don’t think I want to go anywhere else and play. This is my home and I’ve been part of this team, this community, for so long. Last year, being away (with Philadelphia), I really don’t want to experience again.”

 Special thanks to reader Sam Gupta for nominating him and pointing out that Herrod is also Mr. T’s cousin.

Have a favorite Herrod memory?  Let us hear it and we'll print it:  18to88@gmail.com