Utah Utes all-time greatest football players: No. 8 Bob Trumpy

Former Utes wideout made his name in Salt Lake City

Manny Rubio-Imagn Images

Bob Trumpy was an iconic figure in American football who had a remarkable but brief association with Utah, particularly during his college years. Although Trumpy is best known for his NFL career with the Cincinnati Bengals and his later work as a broadcaster, his time at the University of Utah laid the groundwork for his future successes.

Trumpy played for the University of Utah Utes in the early 1960s. He initially attended Utah as a wide receiver, a position that would later evolve into his standout role as a tight end in professional football. His time at Utah was marked by his athleticism and versatility, characteristics that helped him transition smoothly between different positions on the field. While at Utah, Trumpy displayed excellent speed and hands for a player of his size, traits that would later become his signature in the NFL.

Trumpy's college career at Utah wasn’t widely documented due to the Utes' lack of national prominence during his tenure. However, his performances on the field were significant enough to catch the attention of professional scouts. Despite the limited national exposure, Trumpy's raw talent was evident, and his ability to make plays as a receiver set him apart from other players of his time. His college stats may not have been as flashy as those of modern players, but Trumpy’s contributions to the team were invaluable, particularly in a period when tight ends were primarily used for blocking rather than receiving.

One of the most notable aspects of Trumpy’s time at Utah was his adaptability. He showcased the ability to line up in different spots, run crisp routes, and block effectively, skills that would later define his NFL career. His college experience at Utah was crucial in shaping his understanding of the game and developing his skill set, making him a versatile and valuable player at the next level.

After his college career, Trumpy was drafted in the 12th round of the 1968 NFL/AFL draft by the Cincinnati Bengals. His transition from a college wide receiver to an NFL tight end was seamless, largely due to the foundational skills he developed at Utah. Trumpy became one of the premier tight ends in the NFL during his career, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and revolutionizing the position with his pass-catching abilities.

Though Trumpy’s time at Utah may not be the most celebrated chapter of his football journey, it was undoubtedly pivotal. His experience as a Ute played a crucial role in his development as a player, allowing him to transition to the NFL and leave a lasting impact on the tight end position in professional football.