LetterWinners of Distinction
- Induction:
- 1989
- Class:
- 1968
Lawrence R. Csonka
Football – 1967
The Syracuse University link of outstanding runners was continued by Larry Csonka from 1965 to 1967. The quintessential fullback, Csonka capped off a stellar career with All-America honors in 1967. The “Zonk” lettered three times and was co-captain and Bill Horr Most Valuable Player as a senior. He broke every existing rushing record with a total of 2,934 yards, capped by a phenomenal senior campaign of 1,127 on 261 carries. He eclipsed the 100-yard plateau 14 times in his career, including a 216-yard performance against Maryland as a sophomore.
In addition to his All-American laurels, Csonka was named ECAC Player-of-the-Year and Most Valuable Player of the College All-Star Game, and was fourth in the Heisman Trophy balloting as a senior. He also played in the Coaches All-America Game, the East-West Shrine game and the Hula Bowl.
Upon graduating from Syracuse University in 1968, Csonka moved to the National Football League as the Miami Dolphins’ number-one draft choice. During his 11-year career, he amassed 8,081 yards and 64 touchdowns, and led the Dolphins to a Super Bowl title. Csonka, who also had briefs stints with the New York Giants and Memphis, ended his pro career in 1979 with Miami. Csonka was named Most Valuable Player of Super Bowl VIII and was voted Super Athlete-of-the-Year by the Pro Football Writers’ Association. The pinnacle of his football career came in 1987, with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. That honor is followed this year with his induction into the National Football Foundation’s Hall of Fame.
Csonka has been active in a variety of non profit, charitable, civic and community service organizations, including the United Way, the Muscular Dystrophy Association and the Multiple Sclerosis Society. Currently, he is involved with former Miami teammate Nick Buoniconti in the “Miami Project,” which helps people suffering from paralysis. His other activities include offering color commentary on NFL telecasts, public speaking and Csonka Promotions.
