Norm Michael

Norman Gladding Michael (May 1, 1921 – September 25, 2011) was an American college football player who was a fullback and war veteran. He played college football for the Syracuse Orange before being drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the 20th round of the 1944 NFL draft. At the time of the draft, Michael was serving in World War II, and he did not learn of his selection until 55 years later.

Early life and education Born in Providence, RI in 1921, Michael attended high school at Lakewood. He played college football at Syracuse University, playing fullback. One of his best plays came as a sophomore, where he made a 58-yard run against rival Colgate, scoring a touchdown a few plays later. But on the next possession he broke his leg and was out for the year. He was frequently injured during his time at Syracuse, "keeping the doctors busy", according to the Democrat and Chronicle. In addition, Michael suffered a torn arm muscle as a freshman, and fracturing or breaking his wrist, arm, nose, and ankle in his final two seasons. However, the Eagles were not able to locate him, as he was stationed at Maxwell Air Force Base in Alabama, serving in World War II.

Later life Afterwards he worked at multiple sales jobs near Syracuse and was a business owner in Rochester, retiring in 1978.