Deacon Jones, NFL Icon and Head Slap Inventor, Dies at 74

By Clare Morris, Christian Post Contributor Tuesday, June 04, 2013

Deacon Jones, one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history, passed away Monday at 74. Jones had struggled with several health issues, including lung cancer and heart problems, requiring him to use a pacemaker. The defensive legend is survived by his wife Elizabeth Jones and stepson Greg Pinto.

Deacon Jones made a name for himself by sacking almost every quarterback in the league and using an original move, the head slap, to put off offensive linemen, according to The Los Angeles Times. He joined the NFL in 1961 with the St. Louis Rams. He stayed with the Rams until 1971. He played for the San Diego Chargers from 1972-1973 and he finished his career with the Washington Redskins in 1974. Jones, nicknamed The Secretary of Defense, was added to the NFL hall of fame in 1980.

Jones' legend includes his original move the head slap. Because of his extremely quick hands, he was able to move the head of the offensive linemen with a quick slap, giving himself an extra second before the lineman reacted. Jones describes the move in a youtube video, saying he used the head slap to give himself the advantage.

"To give myself an initial headstart on the pass rush, in other words a extra step. Because anytime you go upside a man's head ... or a woman; they may have a tendency to blink they eyes or close they eyes. And that's all I needed," he said.

His legend extended off the football field as well. After retiring from the game, he established the Deacon Jones Foundation. The foundation is an organization dedicated to helping underprivileged youth, offering scholarships, mentoring, and community programs for students.