Merlin Olsen: A Titan's Journey
From the gridiron's fiercest defender to the television screen, explore the remarkable career of a true American legend.
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Early Life and Foundations
Birthplace and Family
Merlin Jay Olsen was born on September 15, 1940, in Logan, Utah. He was the second of nine children born to Merle Barrus and Lynn Jay Olsen. His parents were graduates of Utah State University (USU), where his father was a professor and his mother had a background in elementary education. The family home was known for its open-door policy, often hosting neighbors and friends.
Academic and Athletic Beginnings
Though initially discouraged from athletics in high school, Olsen's natural talent and leadership qualities soon became evident. He ultimately chose to attend Utah State University, turning down a scholarship offer from Stanford. His brothers, Phil and Orrin, also pursued football careers, with Phil eventually playing alongside Merlin for the Los Angeles Rams.
College Dominance at Utah State
All-American Recognition
Olsen attended Utah State University, where he excelled as a defensive tackle and a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity. His junior year saw him named an All-American by prestigious organizations like the Football Writers Association of America and the Newspaper Enterprise Association. As a senior in 1961, he achieved consensus All-American status.
Outland Trophy and Team Success
In 1961, Olsen was honored with the Outland Trophy, awarded annually to the nation's top interior lineman. He anchored a formidable Utah State defense that led the nation in several categories, contributing to the team's conference championships and a top-10 national ranking in both major polls during his junior and senior seasons. His academic achievements were equally notable, graduating summa cum laude with a degree in finance.
NFL Legend: The Fearsome Foursome
Los Angeles Rams Tenure
Selected by the Los Angeles Rams in the first round of the 1962 NFL draft, Olsen embarked on a stellar 15-year career, missing only two games. He was named NFL Rookie of the Year in 1962 and quickly established himself as a dominant defensive force.
Unprecedented Pro Bowl Selections
Olsen's remarkable consistency was highlighted by his 14 Pro Bowl selections, achieved in every year of his career except his final season. This feat placed him among the NFL's elite, matching or exceeding all but a select few players in league history.
The Fearsome Foursome
Olsen became a cornerstone of the Rams' legendary defensive line, the "Fearsome Foursome," alongside Deacon Jones, Rosey Grier, and Lamar Lundy. This formidable quartet terrorized opposing offenses throughout the 1960s and early 1970s, earning Olsen recognition on both the NFL's 1960s and 1970s All-Decade Teams.
Accolades and Hall of Fame
His career was punctuated by numerous accolades, including five First-team All-Pro selections and the prestigious Bert Bell Award in 1974. Olsen's enduring impact on the game was recognized with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1982 and the College Football Hall of Fame, solidifying his status as one of football's all-time greats.
Transition to the Screen
Early Acting Roles
Following his illustrious football career, Olsen transitioned successfully into acting. His early appearances included a role in the John Wayne film The Undefeated (1969) and a guest spot on Petticoat Junction.
Jonathan Garvey on "Little House"
Olsen gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Jonathan Garvey in the beloved television series Little House on the Prairie from 1977 to 1981. His warm and dependable character resonated with audiences, becoming a memorable part of the show's enduring legacy.
Starring in "Father Murphy"
Leveraging his success on Little House, Olsen starred as John Michael Murphy in the NBC drama Father Murphy, which aired from 1981 to 1983. This leading role further cemented his presence in popular television.
Final Television Appearance
Olsen's last credited acting role was in the short-lived 1988 television series Aaron's Way, concluding a diverse and successful career in entertainment.
Voice of the Game: Broadcasting Career
NBC Football Analyst
Olsen lent his insightful perspective to football broadcasts, serving as a television color commentator. He primarily teamed with Dick Enberg on NBC's coverage of the American Football Conference (AFC) throughout the 1980s, calling multiple Super Bowls and Rose Bowls.
CBS Sports and Beyond
In the early 1990s, Olsen moved to CBS Sports, providing commentary for NFL games alongside Dick Stockton. His distinctive voice and deep understanding of the game made him a respected figure in sports broadcasting.
A Lifetime of Accolades
Football Honors
Merlin Olsen's contributions to football were recognized with numerous prestigious awards. He was a 14-time Pro Bowl selection, a 5-time First-team All-Pro, and a member of the NFL's 1960s and 1970s All-Decade Teams. His collegiate achievements included the Outland Trophy and consensus All-American status. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1982 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 1980.
Broader Recognition
Beyond football, Olsen received the Walter Camp Man of the Year award in 1982 and was named Athlete of the Century for the state of Utah. His career was celebrated through inductions into the Utah Sports Hall of Fame (1979), the Utah Tourism Hall of Fame (1998), and the California Sports Hall of Fame (2010). He also served as the Grand Marshal of the Rose Parade in 1983.
Personal Life and Legacy
Family and Faith
Merlin Olsen married Susan Wakley on March 30, 1962, while both were students at USU. They raised three children: Kelly, Jill, and Nathan. A devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Olsen resided in San Marino, California.
Health and Final Years
In 2009, Olsen was diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma, a rare cancer linked to asbestos exposure. He underwent treatment and filed a lawsuit against several companies he believed were responsible for his exposure. Merlin Olsen passed away on March 11, 2010, at the age of 69, leaving behind a profound legacy.
Selected Filmography
Notable Appearances
Olsen's acting career spanned film and television, showcasing his versatility beyond the athletic arena.
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References
References
- Honorary Degree Recipients Utah State University.
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