Professional Football Player. For nine seasons (1950 to 1958), he played at the offensive end and kicker positions in the National Football League with the San Francisco 49ers. Born Gordon Leroy Soltau, he attended Central High School in Minnesota and following graduation, he served with the Office of Strategic Services during World War II. He had the distinction of being one of the early "frogmen" with the United States Navy. He played collegiate football at the University of Minnesota, prior to being drafted by the Green Bay Packers during the 3rd round of the 1950 NFL Draft. He was acquired by the Cleveland Browns, however Paul Brown had no plans to use him as a starter and gave him the option of being traded to the 49ers, which he accepted. During the course of his career, he earned Pro-Bowl honors three-times (1951 to 1953) and achieved First-Team All-Pro status in 1952. In 1953, as a kicker, he led the league with 48 extra-points-made. After retiring as a player, he served as an analyst on 49ers' radio broadcasts. Additionally, he worked in the printing industry. He is a member of the San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame and the University of Minnesota ("M" Club) Hall of Fame. He died from natural causes.
Professional Football Player. For nine seasons (1950 to 1958), he played at the offensive end and kicker positions in the National Football League with the San Francisco 49ers. Born Gordon Leroy Soltau, he attended Central High School in Minnesota and following graduation, he served with the Office of Strategic Services during World War II. He had the distinction of being one of the early "frogmen" with the United States Navy. He played collegiate football at the University of Minnesota, prior to being drafted by the Green Bay Packers during the 3rd round of the 1950 NFL Draft. He was acquired by the Cleveland Browns, however Paul Brown had no plans to use him as a starter and gave him the option of being traded to the 49ers, which he accepted. During the course of his career, he earned Pro-Bowl honors three-times (1951 to 1953) and achieved First-Team All-Pro status in 1952. In 1953, as a kicker, he led the league with 48 extra-points-made. After retiring as a player, he served as an analyst on 49ers' radio broadcasts. Additionally, he worked in the printing industry. He is a member of the San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame and the University of Minnesota ("M" Club) Hall of Fame. He died from natural causes.
Bio by: C.S.
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