Drew Hill took the field in 157 contests throughout his career. His caught pass percentage sat at 403.8% and he earned that by hauling in 634 of the 157 passes that went his way. He had a total of 9,831 yards and had an average of 15.5 yards per catch. In his career, Hill sat with 60 touchdowns. His catches per contest and yards per outing average were 4.0 and 62.6 yards. Drew Hill is a name that resonates with many football fans, especially those who followed the NFL during the late 1970s through the early 1990s. He was one of the standout wide receivers of his era, known for his speed, agility, and ability to make crucial catches. In this article, we delve into the illustrious career of Drew Hill, exploring his journey from college football to becoming a celebrated NFL wide receiver.
Early Life and College Career
Born on October 5, 1956, in Newnan, Georgia, Drew Hill developed a passion for football at a young age. He attended Newnan High School, where he showcased his athletic abilities as both a football and track star. His exceptional performance on the field earned him a scholarship to attend Georgia Tech, a school known for its strong football program.
At Georgia Tech, Hill excelled as a wide receiver, consistently impressing coaches and fans alike with his speed and catching ability. His college career laid the foundation for his future success in the NFL, and he graduated with a reputation as a promising young talent.
Entering the NFL
Drew Hill’s journey to the NFL began in 1979 when he was selected by the Los Angeles Rams in the 12th round of the NFL Draft. Though he was a late-round pick, Hill quickly proved his worth on the field. In his rookie season, he made an immediate impact, showcasing his speed and agility as a wide receiver and contributing to the Rams’ offensive strategy.
Los Angeles Rams: A Promising Start
During his time with the Los Angeles Rams, Hill demonstrated his potential as a valuable asset to the team. He played with the Rams for four seasons, from 1979 to 1983, and during this period, he honed his skills and established himself as a reliable target for quarterbacks. Hill’s time with the Rams set the stage for what would become a standout NFL career.
The Houston Oilers Era
In 1984, Drew Hill’s career took a significant turn when he joined the Houston Oilers. It was with the Oilers that Hill truly came into his own as a wide receiver. His tenure with the team, which lasted from 1984 to 1991, was marked by numerous achievements and memorable performances.
Flourishing as a Wide Receiver
Under the Oilers’ pass-heavy offense, Hill thrived as a key component of the team’s aerial attack. He consistently posted impressive numbers, earning Pro Bowl selections in 1988 and 1990. Hill’s ability to find open spaces and make challenging catches made him a favorite target for the Oilers’ quarterbacks, including Warren Moon.
Memorable Seasons and Records
During the late 1980s, Hill was part of a dynamic receiving corps that included Ernest Givins and Haywood Jeffires. The trio, known for their electrifying plays, helped the Oilers become one of the most formidable offenses in the league. Hill’s standout performances contributed to the team’s success and earned him a reputation as one of the premier wide receivers of his time.
Throughout his tenure with the Oilers, Hill recorded multiple 1,000-yard receiving seasons, a testament to his consistency and skill. His contributions played a significant role in the Oilers’ playoff appearances during this era.
Final Years in the NFL
In 1992, Drew Hill made a move to the Atlanta Falcons, where he played for two more seasons before retiring from professional football in 1993. Although his time with the Falcons was shorter, Hill continued to display the talent and determination that had defined his career.
Retirement and Legacy
Drew Hill retired from the NFL after a remarkable 14-year career. Over the course of his time in the league, he amassed impressive statistics, including over 9,800 receiving yards and 60 touchdowns. Hill’s contributions to the game have left a lasting impact, and he is remembered as one of the top wide receivers of his era.
Life After Football
After retiring from professional football, Drew Hill remained involved in the sport, participating in various community and charity events. His legacy extended beyond the football field, as he inspired future generations of athletes to pursue their dreams with dedication and passion.
Remembering Drew Hill
Sadly, Drew Hill passed away on March 19, 2011, but his memory lives on in the hearts of football fans and those who knew him personally. His contributions to the NFL and his impact on the game continue to be celebrated by fans and players alike.
Conclusion
Drew Hill’s NFL career is a testament to his talent, hard work, and dedication to the sport of football. From his early days at Georgia Tech to his standout performances with the Houston Oilers, Hill’s journey through the NFL was marked by achievements and memorable moments. He remains a celebrated figure in football history, remembered for his speed, skill, and the legacy he left behind as a remarkable NFL wide receiver.