NFL Veteran and Former Pro Bowler Walt Rock Dies at 84
Walt Rock, a defensive tackle who spent 11 seasons in the NFL with the San Francisco 49ers and Washington Redskins, passed away on May 19 at the age of 84. He had an extensive career and significant impact in professional football.
Collegiate Achievements
In 1962, Rock was honored as an honorable mention All-American at the University of Maryland. During his collegiate years, he also earned acclaim as an all-Atlantic Coast Conference guard and tackle.
Professional Career
In 1963, the San Francisco 49ers selected Rock with the 21st overall pick in the NFL Draft’s second round. Though also drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs of the AFC that year, he chose to play in the NFL.
Rock played 137 games over 11 seasons from 1963 to 1973, starting almost every game at tackle in his last 10 years. He earned selections to two Pro Bowl games in 1965 and 1966 with San Francisco. In 1966, he was named first team All-Pro by the Sporting News.
Trade and Later Career
In 1968, Rock was traded to the Washington Redskins for a first-round draft pick. His playing career included appearing in his first playoff game in 1971. In 1972, he contributed to Washington’s advance to the Super Bowl, defeating the Dallas Cowboys in the NFC Championship game. This journey ended with a loss to the Miami Dolphins in the Super Bowl.
Rock was one of the few players to participate in a Super Bowl after attending the University of Maryland. His playing career ended in 1973 due to a series of ankle sprains. He then focused on being the president and owner of Door Systems, Inc. in Virginia, a role he held during his off-seasons as a player.
Hall of Fame and Legacy
In 1972, Rock was inducted into the Elyria (Ohio) Sports Hall of Fame’s inaugural class. While at Elyria High School, he excelled in football and basketball, becoming the leading scorer and rebounder on his basketball team, which dominated their competitions.
Rock leaves behind his wife, Alice, three sisters, two children named Douglas and Chelsea, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.