Gerhard Schwedes

Gerhard H. Schwedes (April 23, 1938 – August 23, 2026) was a German-American professional football player who played two seasons in the American Football League (AFL) as a halfback with the Boston Patriots and New York Titans. He was born in Nazi Germany and grew up there during World War II. He moved to the United States when he was 12. He played college football at Syracuse University, which he helped to a victory in the 1960 Cotton Bowl Classic. In late November 1959, Schwedes was selected by the Patriots in the territorial portion of the AFL's inaugural 1960 draft, becoming the first draft pick in Patriots franchise history.

Early life Gerhard H. Schwedes was born on April 23, 1938, in Freiburg im Breisgau in Nazi Germany. Schwedes was raised in Ulm. In 1958, he recorded 83 carries for 360 yards and three touchdowns, and 13 receptions for 117 yards, earning Associated Press (AP) third-team All-Eastern honors. He was a team captain his senior year in 1959, totaling 90 rushing attempts for 567 yards, 15 catches for 231 yards and five touchdowns, and 9 completions on 17 passing attempts for 93 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions. The Orange were named consensus national champions that season. For his performance during the 1959 season, Schwedes was named first-team All-Eastern by the AP and United Press International (UPI), and a third-team All-American by UPI and a second-team All-American by the Central Press Association. He was also an NFF National Scholar-Athlete in 1959. Schwedes lettered in lacrosse at Syracuse as well.

Professional career In late November 1959, Schwedes was selected by the Boston Patriots of the American Football League (AFL) in the territorial portion of the AFL's inaugural 1960 draft, becoming the first draft pick in Patriots franchise history. He was also selected by the Baltimore Colts of the National Football League (NFL) in the fourth round, with the 47th overall pick, of the 1960 NFL draft. He signed with the Patriots on January 1, 1960.

Personal life Schwedes' son Scott Schwedes also played football at Syracuse and later in the NFL.