Alphonse “Tuffy” Leemans was born on November 12, 1912, in Superior, Wisconsin. He attended East High School in Superior. Leemans played college football at George Washington University from 1933 to 1935. In 1936, he was drafted by the New York Giants in the second round. As a rookie, he led the NFL in rushing yards. Leemans played for the Giants until 1943. He earned two First-team All-Pro selections and participated in two NFL All-Star Games. He was part of the Giants’ 1938 NFL Championship team. After retiring, he briefly coached and later operated a laundry and a bowling alley. In 1978, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Leemans died on January 19, 1979.
Alphonse “Tuffy” Leemans was born on November 12, 1912, in Superior, Wisconsin. He attended East High School in Superior. Leemans played college football at George Washington University from 1933 to 1935. In 1936, he was drafted by the New York Giants in the second round. As a rookie, he led the NFL in rushing yards. Leemans played for the Giants until 1943. He earned two First-team All-Pro selections and participated in two NFL All-Star Games. He was part of the Giants’ 1938 NFL Championship team. After retiring, he briefly coached and later operated a laundry and a bowling alley. In 1978, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Leemans died on January 19, 1979.
A native of Superior, Wis., Leemans attended Superior East High School, where he played football.
The New York Giants selected Alphonse Leemans with the 18th overall pick in the 2nd round of the 1936 NFL Draft.
