The University of Miami and the college football community are mourning the loss of one of their greatest players, Don Bosseler, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 88. Bosseler, an All-American fullback, played a pivotal role in elevating Miami’s football program to national prominence during the 1950s.
A Hurricane Legend
Nicknamed “The Bull” for his tough, physical playing style, Bosseler etched his name in Miami’s record books during his stellar college career. He led the Hurricanes in rushing as a junior and senior, earning first-team All-America honors in 1956. That same year, he guided Miami to a No. 6 ranking in the Associated Press poll, the program’s highest finish at the time.
Memorable Performances
One of Bosseler’s most remarkable games came against the Florida Gators in 1956. According to a report from the Fort Lauderdale News, the “Batavia, N.Y. bulldozer” amassed 148 rushing yards—23 more than the entire Gator team—while scoring two touchdowns, intercepting a pass, recovering a fumble, and quick-kicking for 47 yards. His dominant performance led Miami to a 20-7 victory over their in-state rival.
“Is that All-America, or isn’t it?”
Joe Kolb, Fort Lauderdale News sports editor, on Bosseler’s performance against Florida
NFL Career and Accolades
Bosseler’s football journey continued in the NFL, where he was a first-round draft pick of the Washington Redskins in 1957. He played eight seasons in the league, rushing for 3,112 yards and 22 touchdowns while earning a Pro Bowl selection in 1959. Bosseler’s draft class included legendary figures like Paul Hornung and Jim Brown, further highlighting the caliber of player he was.
In recognition of his outstanding college career, Bosseler was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1990, cementing his status as one of the all-time greats. He had previously been enshrined in the Miami Sports Hall of Fame in 1970, a testament to his enduring legacy at the university.
A Lasting Impact
Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Bosseler left an indelible mark on those who knew him. His son, Greg, who played football for the rival Florida Gators, shared heartfelt memories of his father, noting that they often laughed about the familial division in college allegiances.
“My dad was my hero.”
Greg Bosseler
Don Bosseler’s legacy extends far beyond the gridiron. After his playing days, he found success as a stockbroker and remained a beloved figure in the Miami community. His name continues to resonate with Hurricane fans, forever etched in the university’s ring of honor.
As the football world reflects on Bosseler’s passing, his impact on the sport and the lives he touched will endure. Through his skill, toughness, and dedication, he helped shape the identity of Miami football and inspired generations of players who followed in his footsteps.
Don Bosseler’s legacy is one of excellence, resilience, and unwavering spirit—qualities that define the very essence of what it means to be a Miami Hurricane. As the university and its fans mourn this immense loss, they also celebrate the indelible mark he left on the program and the sport he loved so dearly.
In a fitting tribute, Archie Manning, the chairman of the National Football Foundation, encapsulated Bosseler’s significance to Miami and college football as a whole:
“Don Bosseler’s talents helped the Miami football program achieve national prominence in the 1950s. An All-American, he epitomized toughness, earning the nickname ‘Bull,’ and you can still find his name in the record books at the ‘U’ nearly 70 years later.”
Archie Manning, National Football Foundation Chairman
As the University of Miami and the college football community bid farewell to Don Bosseler, his memory will live on through the countless lives he touched, the records he set, and the indelible legacy he leaves behind. Through his extraordinary talents and unwavering dedication, Bosseler forever changed the course of Miami football, setting the stage for the program’s future successes and inspiring generations of players to strive for greatness.
Rest in peace, Don Bosseler—a true Hurricane legend whose impact will never be forgotten.
