Dwight Stephenson facts for kids

Dwight Eugene Stephenson, born on November 20, 1957, is a famous former American football player. He played as a center for the Miami Dolphins in the National Football League (NFL) from 1980 to 1987. Before turning pro, he played college football for the Alabama Crimson Tide. Dwight Stephenson was honored by being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998.

Dwight's Early Life and College Years

Dwight Stephenson was born in Murfreesboro, North Carolina. He started his football journey playing college football at the University of Alabama. There, he played under the legendary coach Bear Bryant. Coach Bryant thought Stephenson was the best center he had ever coached. He even called him "a man among children" because of his amazing skills.

Stephenson was the main center for the Crimson Tide from 1977 to 1979. He was a key player when Alabama won two national championships in a row, in 1978 and 1979. He was also named a second-team All-American twice. This happened in 1978 and again in 1979. Mike Brock, who played with him, said Stephenson's speed and quickness were "off the chart." He added that defenses had a very hard time stopping him.

Dwight's Professional Football Career

Hall of Famers Larry Little and Stephenson, with Bob Kuechenberg and Richmond Webb.

The Miami Dolphins picked Dwight Stephenson in the second round of the 1980 NFL draft. This was under the guidance of coach Don Shula. At first, Stephenson played only on special teams. But late in the 1981 season, the starting center got hurt. Stephenson then stepped in and quickly became known as the best center in the NFL.

Stephenson was an incredibly strong and fast player. He was also the leader of the Dolphins' offensive line. With him leading the way, the Dolphins' offensive line was amazing. They allowed the fewest sacks in the NFL for a record six seasons in a row. This incredible streak lasted from 1982 to 1987. Sadly, Stephenson had to retire from football in 1987. This was because of a serious left knee injury he got during a game.

Stephenson was chosen as an All-Pro player five times in a row, from 1983 to 1987. He was also picked to play in five Pro Bowl games during those same years. He played center in three AFC Championship Games. These were in 1982, 1984, and 1985. He also started at center in the Dolphins' last two Super Bowl appearances. These were Super Bowl XVII and Super Bowl XIX. In 1985, Stephenson received the NFL Man of the Year Award. This award honors players for their great community service and excellent play on the field.

Honors and Life After Football

Stephenson's bronze bust at the Pro Football Hall of Fame

On December 12, 1994, Dwight Stephenson's name was added to the Miami Dolphins Honor Roll. This is a special list of the team's greatest players.

Even though his career was shorter than some, Stephenson was highly respected. In 1999, The Sporting News ranked him number 84 on their list of the 100 Greatest Football Players. Also in 1999, he was inducted into the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame. In 2011, he joined the Hampton Roads Sports Hall of Fame. This recognized his important contributions to sports in southeastern Virginia.

In 1998, Stephenson was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. This is one of the highest honors for a football player. He once said, "I know I’m not going to make every block, but I don’t like to ever get beat." He added, "That’s what keeps me motivated. There’s always the next play to get ready for.”

In 2005, Stephenson was named the Walter Camp Man of the Year. This award celebrates his character and leadership. There is also an award named after him, the Dwight Stephenson Award. It is given by Pro Football Focus to the best player in the NFL, no matter their position.

After he stopped playing football, Stephenson started a new career. As of 2013, he worked as a construction manager and general contractor in Florida. He still strongly supports the University of Alabama's football team.