Biography
Ray Nagel (born May 18, 1927) was a professional American football quarterback who played in the National Football League (NFL) primarily during the 1950s. After playing college football at the University of Iowa, he was selected in the 12th round of the 1950 NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears. Nagel is best known for his time with the Baltimore Colts, where he contributed to the team's success during a pivotal era in professional football.
Over the course of his NFL career, Nagel played for teams including the Colts and the Washington Redskins. He was noted for his strong arm and ability to read defenses, earning respect from teammates and coaches alike. Nagel's most significant achievement came in 1958, when he served as a backup quarterback on the Colts during their iconic championship game against the New York Giants that is often dubbed one of the greatest games in NFL history.
After retiring from professional football, Nagel left a lasting legacy as a mentor to younger quarterbacks and spent many years coaching at various levels. His contributions to the game extended beyond his playing days, as he remained involved in football through coaching and community engagement. Ray Nagel is remembered not only for his on-field accomplishments but also for his impact on the development of future generations of athletes.