From Andre the Giant to Tacko Fall: The case for using a 7-footer to block field goals

Allen spread word that he was interested in signing professional wrestling behemoth Andre the Giant and developing him into a specialist at swatting field goals and extra points out of the air.

Washington quarterback Joe Theismann recalls being asked to pose for publicity photos beside Andre at a press luncheon organized by the team that July. The most famous photo features the 7-foot, more-than-400-pound wrestling icon effortlessly cradling Theisman like a toddler. Said Theismann with a laugh, "I've never been around another human being that large in my life."

The way Theismann remembers it, Allen's pursuit of Andre was more marketing ploy than serious courtship. There was never a tryout, Theismann said, nor a contract offer. Andre's drawing power barnstorming the country as professional wrestling's ultimate attraction brought him far more money than he ever could have earned in those days from playing NFL football.