Jimmy Gunn facts for kids

Jimmy Gunn was an American football player. He played as a linebacker in the National Football League (NFL). A linebacker is a defensive player. They stop the other team from scoring. Jimmy Gunn was born in Augusta, Arkansas, on November 27, 1948. He went to Lincoln High School in San Diego.

College Football Career

Jimmy Gunn was a talented college player. He played for the University of Southern California (USC). In 1969, he was named an All-American. This means he was one of the best players in the country. He was also an All-Pac-8 player. He is in USC's Hall of Fame.

The "Wild Bunch" Defense

In 1969, Jimmy Gunn was part of a strong defense. This group was nicknamed the "Wild Bunch." It included other great players. These were Al Cowlings, Charlie Weaver, Tody Smith, and Bubba Scott. They played as defensive ends. A defensive end tries to tackle the quarterback.

The "Wild Bunch" helped USC have a great season. They finished with 10 wins and 1 tie. They also won the 1970 Rose Bowl. They beat the University of Michigan in that game. Their coach, John McKay, said their strong defense helped them win.

Professional Football Career

After college, Jimmy Gunn played in the NFL. He was drafted in 1970. He played for a few different teams.

• Chicago Bears (1970–1975)
• New York Giants (1975)
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1976)

He played professional football until 1976.

Later Life and Death

Jimmy Gunn passed away on April 11, 2015. He was 66 years old. He died from heart failure.