Claxton Welch facts for kids
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| Position: | Running back | ||
| Personal information | |||
| Born: | July 3, 1947 Portland, Oregon, U.S. |
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| Height: | 5 ft 11 in (1.80 m) | ||
| Weight: | 203 lb (92 kg) | ||
| Career information | |||
| High school: | David Douglas (Portland, Oregon) |
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| College: | Oregon | ||
| NFL Draft: | 1969 / Round: 9 / Pick: 230 | ||
| Career history | |||
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| Career highlights and awards | |||
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| Career NFL statistics | |||
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| Player stats at PFR | |||
Claxton Welch (born July 3, 1947) is a former American football player. He played as a running back in the National Football League (NFL). His teams included the Dallas Cowboys, New Orleans Saints, and New England Patriots. Before joining the NFL, he played college football at the University of Oregon.
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Early Life and College Football
Claxton Welch was born on July 3, 1947, in Portland, Oregon. His parents were Cornelia, an elementary school teacher, and Claxton Welch Sr., a contractor. They were both from Alabama.
Claxton went to David Douglas High School in Portland. He was a fantastic athlete there. He was named All-State in both basketball and football. Because of his football skills, he received a scholarship to play at the University of Oregon.
During his junior year at Oregon, he ran for 474 yards. He also caught 7 passes for 109 yards. In his final year, he gained 525 rushing yards. This was impressive, even though he missed three of the last four games.
Professional Football Career
Claxton Welch began his professional journey in the NFL. He played for several teams during his career.
Dallas Cowboys (First Time)
The Dallas Cowboys picked Claxton Welch in the 1969 NFL/AFL draft. He was the 230th player chosen overall. As a new player, he was known for being very fast in practice. He was first placed on the team's "taxi squad." This was a group of players who practiced with the team but were not on the main roster. Later, he was moved to the main team.
New Orleans Saints
In September 1970, the New Orleans Saints picked up Claxton. He played one game for them. Soon after, he was released from the team.
Dallas Cowboys (Second Time)
Claxton returned to the Dallas Cowboys in October 1970. He was again on the taxi squad before joining the main team. He played in 8 games that season. One of his most memorable plays was in the 1970 NFC Championship game. He ran the ball 5 times for 27 yards, helping his team.
In the 1971 season, Claxton Welch was part of the Dallas Cowboys team that won Super Bowl VI. This was a huge achievement for him and the team, led by coach Tom Landry. He earned a Super Bowl ring for being a champion. He left the Cowboys in September 1972.
Kansas City Chiefs
In November 1972, Claxton signed with the Kansas City Chiefs. He was later released in August 1973. He then joined their taxi squad.
New England Patriots
Claxton Welch was claimed by the New England Patriots in October 1973. He was later placed on the injured reserve list in December. He was released from the Patriots in August 1974 after failing a physical exam. He finished his NFL career with 83 rushing yards and 7 receiving yards.
