GB
Gil Brandt
74quotes
Gil Brandt: A Pioneer in the NFL Draft
Full Name and Common Aliases
Gilbert Howard Brandt is commonly known as Gil Brandt.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on September 4, 1932, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Still active today.
Nationality and Profession(s)
American football executive and scout. Primarily associated with the National Football League (NFL).
Early Life and Background
Growing up in Oklahoma City, Brandt developed a passion for sports at an early age. He was particularly drawn to American football and was heavily influenced by the likes of Bronko Nagurski and Bill Hewitt. After completing his education at the University of Oklahoma, where he studied business administration, Brandt began his career in professional football as a personnel director for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Major Accomplishments
Brandt is most notably remembered for his tenure with the Dallas Cowboys from 1960 to 1988, during which he served as their vice president and general manager. Under his guidance, the team won five Super Bowls (VI, X, XII, XIII, and XXVII) and were known for their innovative approach to player evaluation and scouting.
Notable Works or Actions
Brandt is credited with developing the NFL's draft combine in 1982, which has since become an essential tool for evaluating college prospects. He also implemented the use of advanced statistical analysis in the Cowboys' scouting process, a pioneering move at the time. Additionally, Brandt was instrumental in drafting notable players such as Bob Lilly, Mel Renfro, and Roger Staubach.
Impact and Legacy
Brandt's contributions to the NFL have had a lasting impact on the sport. His innovative approach to player evaluation has been adopted by teams across the league, and his influence can still be seen today in the way that teams approach the draft process. Brandt was also one of the first executives to recognize the importance of scouting international talent, which has helped shape the NFL's roster into what it is today.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Brandt is widely respected and quoted for his insightful comments on player evaluation and team building. His extensive experience in the league has provided him with a unique perspective on what makes a successful football team, and he continues to share this knowledge through public speaking engagements and media appearances.
Throughout his career, Brandt has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to shape the NFL for generations to come. His dedication to developing young talent and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in professional football has earned him a place among the greatest executives in the history of the sport.
Quotes by Gil Brandt
"
The medical part is paramount. It becomes more and more paramount every day, because the bonuses keep going up, and nobody wants to draft somebody who can't pass the physical.
"
The first place we went was Vienna, and the first player we tried out was Toni Fritsch. He had a hard time speaking English at first, but he did master it.
"
You've got a captive audience of all 32 teams, and that's something you don't have at (an on-campus session). If you do well here, there are a lot of people who take notice.
"
This is a classic case of a guy who could have stayed in school and helped himself by working on his delivery.
"
Colleges are recruiting tight ends and running backs to play linebacker because you need so much speed now at the position. There are some good ones that will soon be coming out of college. There are signs that it's coming around, but right now there's no question that the true linebacker, like Butkus and Nitschke, are almost extinct.
"
I don't think being too smart can ever hurt you. All you have to look at is what kind of competitor he is. This guy is one of the great competitors of all time.
"
He's the fastest tight end I've ever seen. I knew he was fast, but I thought he'd run a 4.55 or something like that. It's amazing, especially at that weight.
"
If you want to go by past history say who is the safest guy, the safest pick is an established left tackle like this guy.
Showing 1 to 10 of 74 results