The late Manny Fernandez helped make Miami Dolphins perfect

Defensive tackle Manny Fernandez, who passed away at the age of 79, was a true underdog story in the world of professional football. Despite not being drafted by any team, Fernandez managed to secure a spot on the Miami Dolphins roster as an undrafted free agent. Little did anyone know at the time, he would go on to become a key player on the Dolphins’ legendary Super Bowl teams in the 1970s.

Fernandez was born on July 11, 1944, in Havana, Cuba. His family immigrated to the United States when he was just a child, settling in Miami, Florida. It was there that Fernandez developed a love for the game of football, playing for his high school team and catching the eye of college recruiters.

After a successful high school career, Fernandez went on to play college football at the University of Utah. Despite his talent and passion for the game, he went undrafted in the 1968 NFL Draft. Undeterred, Fernandez continued to pursue his dream of playing professional football and signed with the Miami Dolphins as an undrafted free agent.

Fernandez quickly made an impact on the field, using his size, strength, and agility to dominate opposing offensive linemen. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing in at 250 pounds, Fernandez was a force to be reckoned with on the defensive line. His tenacity and determination earned him a starting spot on the Dolphins’ defense and the respect of his teammates and coaches.

During his time with the Dolphins, Fernandez was a key member of one of the most dominant defensive units in NFL history. He played alongside Hall of Famers like Nick Buoniconti, Larry Csonka, and Bob Griese, helping to anchor a defense that was known for its toughness and grit. Fernandez’s ability to disrupt opposing offenses earned him a reputation as one of the best defensive tackles in the league.

Fernandez’s crowning achievement came in Super Bowl VII in 1973 when the Dolphins faced off against the Washington Redskins. In a game that would go down in history as one of the greatest defensive performances of all time, Fernandez and the Dolphins defense held the Redskins to just seven points, securing a 14-7 victory and completing a perfect 17-0 season. The win solidified Fernandez’s place in NFL history and cemented his legacy as a key member of one of the greatest teams of all time.

Off the field, Fernandez was known for his humility and leadership. Despite his success and accolades, he remained humble and focused on the team’s success above all else. He was a mentor to younger players and a respected voice in the locker room, earning the admiration of his teammates and coaches.

After retiring from football, Fernandez remained active in the Miami community, giving back through various charitable endeavors and mentoring young athletes. His impact on the game of football and the city of Miami was undeniable, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of players and fans.

In conclusion, Manny Fernandez was more than just a football player. He was a symbol of perseverance, determination, and hard work. Despite facing numerous obstacles and challenges throughout his career, Fernandez never gave up on his dreams and ultimately achieved greatness on the football field. His legacy will forever be remembered by Dolphins fans and football enthusiasts alike, as a testament to the power of dedication and passion in the face of adversity. Rest in peace, Manny Fernandez, your impact on the game of football will never be forgotten.

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Source: Palm Beach Post