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The US Athletic Hall of Fame - Contributors 2023

Bert Bell

  • Contest: The US Athletic Hall of Fame - Contributors 2023
  • Embed from Getty Images
  • Sport(s): Football
  • Bert Bell was the owner of the Philadelphia Eagles (1933-40) and later the co-owner of the Philadelphia Eagles (1941-46), but this nomination is predominantly based on his role as the NFL Commissioner.



    Bell took on that role in 1946 and oversaw his league in their rivalry against the AAFC. He would broker the merger of the two leagues at the end of the 1949 Season (adding the Cleveland Browns, San Francisco 49ers, and Baltimore Colts), and he was vehemently against gambling, ensuring repercussions to anyone who might tarnish the game by keeping the game's integrity. Bell's biggest contribution was his foresight in regards to the new medium of television.



    To ensure fans would go to the games, he initiated televised blackouts and pioneered television "timeouts." He recognized the NFL Player's Union, against the will of the owners, realizing that it was for the betterment of the game. He remained the NFL Commissioner until he died in 1959.



    Under Bell, the game grew astronomically. Following his passing, the Maxwell Football Club (which was founded by Bell) awards their version of the MVP, which is named after Bell.



    We are proud to nominate Bert Bell for the United States Athletic Hall of Fame.
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