| Sisto Averno | |
|---|---|
| Date of birth | May 25, 1925 |
| Place of birth | Paterson, New Jersey |
| Height | 6 ft 0 in (1.83 m) |
| Weight | 237 pounds (108 kg) |
| Position(s) | Guard, Linebacker |
| College | Muhlenberg College |
| NFL Draft | 1951 / Round 30 |
| Career highlights | |
| Honors | Mr. Irrelevant (1951) |
| Statistics | |
| Teams | |
| 1950 1951 1952 1953-1954 |
Baltimore Colts New York Yanks Dallas Texans Baltimore Colts |
Sisto Joseph Averno (born May 12, 1925 in Paterson, New Jersey) is a former American football guard and linebacker who played in the National Football League for the original Baltimore Colts (1950), the New York Yanks (1951), Dallas Texans (1952) and the Baltimore Colts (1953–1954). He was the final pick of the 1951 NFL Draft, serving as that draft's Mr. Irrelevant. Sisto's college football career also earned him recognition as a member of the Muhlenberg College Athletic Hall of Fame.[1]
In his five years with the Colts, Averno's starting pay was $4,000. The most he ever made in one season was $9,500. Sisto would usually play the whole game as a member of the offensive line, linebacker, kickoff and punt teams.
He also had a reputation for playing while injured. According to Sisto: "One time, I separated my shoulder," Averno said. "I told the coach, Clem Crowe. He said, 'Block with the other one.' "[2]
In his later years, Sisto suffered a stroke, had his knee and a hip replaced, and requires the use of a walker to get around. These conditions are thought to be linked to his playing injuries he suffered years. Because of that, Averno became an advocate for better benefits to retired NFL players.[3] The NFL has paid for none of his health benefits.
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