Oklahoma Sooners and Tampa Bay Buccaneers Unite to Honor Football Icon with Official “Lee Roy Selmon Day”—A Heartfelt Tribute to the Hall of Fame Defensive End Who Redefined Greatness On and Off the Field, Inspiring Generations Through His Dominance, Dignity, and Unshakable Character Across NCAA and NFL History

In a monumental tribute that spans the breadth of college and professional football, the Oklahoma Sooners and Tampa Bay Buccaneers have announced the establishment of an official “Lee Roy Selmon Day,” honoring one of the game’s most transformative figures. This special day will recognize Lee Roy Selmon, the Hall of Fame defensive end whose impact on the gridiron and in the hearts of fans remains immeasurable. The celebration of this football icon represents more than just recognition of his athletic prowess; it acknowledges the lasting legacy he has created through his character, work ethic, and contributions to the sport that transcended both the NCAA and NFL.

Lee Roy Selmon’s journey to football greatness began in the heart of Oklahoma. Born on October 20, 1954, in Eufaula, Oklahoma, Selmon’s early life was marked by a profound commitment to excellence. He was not only an exceptional athlete but also a person of unwavering character—a trait that would define him both on and off the field. After playing high school football in Eufaula, he caught the attention of college scouts and chose to attend the University of Oklahoma, where he would make his mark on the NCAA.

As a defensive end for the Oklahoma Sooners from 1972 to 1975, Selmon’s career was nothing short of spectacular. His combination of size, speed, and agility made him a dominant force on the field, and his presence as a leader inspired his teammates and coaches alike. Under the guidance of legendary head coach Barry Switzer, Selmon helped lead the Sooners to an incredible 32-1 record in his three seasons as a starter, including an undefeated 1974 season.

It was during his time in Norman, Oklahoma, that Lee Roy Selmon began to emerge as a national powerhouse on defense. His performance on the field was nothing short of electrifying, as he displayed the kind of pass-rushing ability that would later make him famous in the NFL. But what truly set Selmon apart was his commitment to playing the game with integrity, discipline, and humility. Whether he was sacking the quarterback or shutting down opposing offenses, he always carried himself with dignity—on the field, in the locker room, and in the classroom.

Selmon’s success at Oklahoma culminated in his being named a consensus All-American in 1975, the same year he won the prestigious Lombardi Award, given to the nation’s best lineman. He also became the first Oklahoma player to win the Outland Trophy, awarded annually to the country’s best interior lineman. The accolades he received during his time at Oklahoma solidified his status as one of the most dominant defensive players in NCAA history. Yet, despite all the individual honors, it was his team-oriented mindset and the impact he had on his teammates that left the greatest mark on the program.

Following his storied college career, Lee Roy Selmon was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with the first overall pick in the 1976 NFL Draft—a decision that would forever change the landscape of the franchise. From the moment he stepped onto the field in Tampa Bay, Selmon’s presence was felt, and it didn’t take long for the fans, teammates, and coaches to realize they were witnessing something special.

During his career with the Buccaneers from 1976 to 1984, Lee Roy Selmon became the heart and soul of the team’s defense. In the early years, the Buccaneers were an expansion team still finding its footing in the NFL, but with Selmon anchoring the defensive line, they rapidly became one of the league’s most feared units. His explosiveness off the line, his ability to sack the quarterback, and his relentless pursuit of ball carriers helped elevate Tampa Bay to new heights.

Selmon’s dominance on defense was a major factor in the Buccaneers’ success in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Under head coach John McKay, Selmon’s leadership helped guide the team to its first playoff appearance in 1979, and just a year later, the Buccaneers reached the NFC Championship game—a remarkable achievement for a franchise still in its formative years.

Lee Roy Selmon was a rare combination of athleticism, strength, and mental toughness. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses was matched only by his innate sense of leadership. He served as the cornerstone of the Buccaneers’ “Buccaneer defense,” a unit that was feared throughout the NFL for its ferocity and discipline. Over the course of his nine-season career, Selmon was selected to six Pro Bowls and earned All-Pro honors three times. He finished his career with 78.5 sacks, a total that still stands as one of the highest in Buccaneers’ history.

Yet, Selmon’s impact extended beyond his statistics. He was known for his selfless approach to the game, his ability to inspire those around him, and his unwavering commitment to his community. He was a leader both on the field and off, a role model for young athletes and a beloved figure in Tampa Bay.

Selmon’s contributions to the Buccaneers franchise were so profound that in 1986, two years after his retirement, the team honored him by retiring his No. 63 jersey—a tribute to a player whose legacy would forever be etched in the history of the organization.

Lee Roy Selmon’s impact on the NFL was so profound that, in 1995, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the sport. His induction was not only a personal achievement but also a testament to his transformative influence on the game.

As one of the first players in NFL history to truly redefine the role of a defensive end, Selmon’s inclusion in the Hall of Fame was a recognition of both his athletic ability and his professionalism. He was a dominant force on the field, but it was his unshakable character, humility, and leadership off the field that truly set him apart.

Even after his playing days were over, Lee Roy Selmon continued to give back to the game he loved. He became a beloved figure in Tampa Bay and an ambassador for the Buccaneers, appearing at events and supporting the team in any way he could. His love for the game never waned, and his influence continued to be felt long after he hung up his cleats.

While Lee Roy Selmon’s achievements on the field are extraordinary, it is his impact off the field that truly underscores his legacy. Throughout his life, Selmon was known for his commitment to service, his community, and his role as a mentor to young athletes.

In addition to his work with the Buccaneers and the NFL, Selmon was deeply involved in charitable causes, particularly those focused on education and youth development. He and his wife, Cornelia, were active in supporting various community programs in both Oklahoma and Tampa Bay, working tirelessly to provide opportunities for disadvantaged youth to excel in academics and athletics. He also founded the Lee Roy Selmon Foundation, which aimed to help children develop life skills and leadership qualities through sports and education.

Selmon’s contributions to his community were not limited to financial donations or charitable events. He was known to take a personal interest in the lives of young people, offering mentorship and guidance. He was a deeply spiritual man and used his platform to promote values of hard work, integrity, and humility. His impact as a role model for young athletes continues to be felt by those who looked up to him as a beacon of character and determination.

The announcement of an official “Lee Roy Selmon Day” represents more than just a moment of recognition for one of football’s greatest players—it is a tribute to the values he embodied throughout his life and career. It is an opportunity to celebrate not only his athletic achievements but also the legacy of character, leadership, and community involvement that he left behind.

On this special day, fans of both the Oklahoma Sooners and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will have the chance to honor Selmon’s memory by reflecting on his extraordinary impact on the game of football. It will be a day for players, coaches, and fans to come together in celebration of a man whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

Lee Roy Selmon’s legacy is one that transcends statistics, accolades, and championships. His impact on football is immeasurable, but it is his commitment to doing things the right way—through hard work, humility, and integrity—that will be remembered most. As the Oklahoma Sooners and Tampa Bay Buccaneers unite to celebrate “Lee Roy Selmon Day,” they are not only honoring a Hall of Fame player but also a true champion of the game, whose influence will continue to resonate across the world of football for years to come.