History of Jim Otto in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 21, 2024

James Edwin Otto was an American professional football player who dedicated 15 seasons of his career as a center for the Oakland Raiders. He began his football journey playing college football for the Miami Hurricanes before joining the Oakland Raiders in the American Football League (AFL) and later the National Football League (NFL).

January 5, 1938: Jim Otto is Born

On January 5, 1938, James Edwin Otto, the future Hall of Fame center for the Oakland Raiders, was born.

1960: Jim Otto Joins the Oakland Raiders

After being drafted by the proposed Minneapolis franchise of the AFL, Jim Otto's rights defaulted to the Oakland Raiders when Minneapolis opted for an NFL franchise. He then signed with the Raiders, marking the start of his illustrious career in 1960. Initially assigned jersey number 50, he later switched to the iconic 00 at the suggestion of the equipment manager, Frank Hinek.

1960: Jim Otto's Dominance as Center Begins

Jim Otto's dominance as a center began in 1960, marking the start of his remarkable journey as a cornerstone of the Oakland Raiders.

1967: Raiders Win AFL Championship

In 1967, Jim Otto and the Oakland Raiders achieved a significant victory by winning the AFL Championship against the Houston Oilers.

1968: Raiders Reach AFL Championship, Lose to Jets

In 1968, the Oakland Raiders, led by Jim Otto, once again secured a spot in the AFL Championship. However, they faced defeat at the hands of the New York Jets.

1969: Jim Otto: A Constant Force in the AFL

Jim Otto's consistent excellence as a center continued until 1969, solidifying his status as a dominant force in the American Football League (AFL).

1969: Raiders Secure Third Consecutive AFL Championship Appearance

The Oakland Raiders, with Jim Otto as their center, made their third consecutive appearance in the AFL Championship in 1969. Despite their strong performance throughout the season, they were defeated by the Kansas City Chiefs in the championship game.

1970: Raiders' First Season in the NFL

In 1970, the Oakland Raiders, including Jim Otto, embarked on their inaugural season in the NFL following the merger of the AFL and NFL. Although they reached the playoffs, they lost to the Baltimore Colts in the AFC Championship game.

1971: Raiders Miss Playoffs for First Time in Five Years

Despite a strong offensive performance in 1971, the Oakland Raiders, with Jim Otto at center, failed to qualify for the playoffs for the first time in five years.

1972: University of Miami Honors Jim Otto

Jim Otto received recognition for his collegiate athletic achievements with his induction into the University of Miami Sports Hall of Fame & Museum in 1972.

1972: Raiders' Playoff Journey Ends with "Immaculate Reception"

The Oakland Raiders, spearheaded by Jim Otto, made a strong playoff push in 1972, but their journey ended with a narrow 13-7 defeat against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the AFC Divisional Round. This game is famously remembered for the "Immaculate Reception." Interestingly, Otto also recorded the only pass reception of his entire professional career in this game.

1973: Raiders' Championship Hopes Dashed by Dolphins

In 1973, the Oakland Raiders, with Jim Otto as their centerpiece, aimed for the championship. They defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers, avenging their prior loss, but their hopes were shattered by a defeat against the Miami Dolphins in the AFC Championship game.

1974: Otto's Final Season Marked by Playoff Run

In his final season in 1974, Jim Otto and the Oakland Raiders mounted a strong playoff run. They avenged their previous playoff loss against the Miami Dolphins but ultimately fell to the Pittsburgh Steelers in the AFC Championship game.

1975: End of an Era: Otto's Retirement

In 1975, Jim Otto, the last remaining member of the inaugural 1960 Oakland Raiders team, retired, marking the end of an era. He was replaced by Dave Dalby, who was in his fourth season from UCLA.

1980: Hall of Fame Recognition for Jim Otto

In 1980, Jim Otto was honored with induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, a testament to his extraordinary talent and contributions to the sport.

1980: Jim Otto's Hall of Fame Induction

In 1980, Jim Otto was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, a testament to his remarkable career and contributions to the sport.

1998: Jim Otto Inducted into Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame

In 1998, Jim Otto's athletic achievements were recognized in his home state with his induction into the Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame.

1999: Jim Otto Ranked Among Greatest Football Players

Jim Otto's legacy as a football legend was further cemented in 1999 when The Sporting News ranked him 78th on their list of the 100 Greatest Football Players.

August 1, 2007: Jim Otto Undergoes Leg Amputation

On August 1, 2007, Jim Otto had to undergo the amputation of his right leg due to the severe toll his football career took on his body. This drastic measure highlighted the significant physical challenges he faced as a result of his years of playing.

2013: Jim Otto Discusses Sports Injuries in Frontline Interview

Jim Otto participated in a Frontline interview for "League of Denial: The NFL's Concussion Crisis" in 2013, shedding light on the issue of concussions in football and sharing his personal experiences with sports injuries.