Bert Bell

Born on February 25, 1895

Died, at age 64, on October 11, 1959 during an Eagles-Steelers game at Franklin Field

Co-founder and owner of the Philadelphia Eagles

Eagles head coach (1936-40)

Credited with starting the NFL Draft (1935)

Founded the Maxwell Football Club (1937)

Co-owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers from (1941-46)

Served as NFL Commissioner (1946-59)

Built NFL image to unprecedented heights

Recognized the NFL Players Association

Presided over the merger with the All-American Football Conference

Established strong anti-gambling laws in response to a scandal during the 1946 NFL Championship Game

Established the television “blackout” policy for home football games

Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame as a charter member (1963)