Professional Football Researchers Association Forum

Leon Gray played 11 seasons (1973-1983), six with the New England Patriots, three with the Houston Oilers (1979-1981), and two with the New Orleans Saints (1982-1983). During his time with the Patriots and Oilers, he was a regular starter, but he did not start a game with New Orleans. Gray played in the Pro Bowl four times and was named an all-pro three times. During his time in New England, Gray run-blocked mainly for Sam Cunningham who ranked 8th overall in rushing yards during that time, and he pass-blocked for Jim Plunkett and Steve Grogan who together passed for more than 17,000 yards, more than Roger Staubach and Fran Tarkenton, during that period of time. While in Houston, Gray run-blocked mainly for Earl Campbell who ranked 1st overall in rushing during that time, and he pass-blocked for Dan Pastorini and Ken Stabler who together ranked in the lower half of the league for passing yardage during that span.

Has a great case for even the HOF, though overshadowed by John Hannah, who lined up next to him.
Didnt have as many pro bowls but more all-pro selections than Art Shell, George Kunz, Mike Kenn, Joe Jacoby, Richmond Webb, Jim Covert and others. A great player ...

Brian hes on my list of deserving seniors ive reconsidered my stance on Leon

It shows how stout the 1973 Dolphins were that Leon Gray a 3rd round draft pick could not make their team. It's similar to Dave Brown, who could not gain traction with the Steelers in 1975-76. Both Brown and Gray are solid candidates for the Hall of the Very Good with stellar NFL careers, yet it was hard to find a spot on those Dolphin and Steeler teams.

Highly regarded by his peers, including John Hannah. Hannah was very upset when Gray was traded after the two of them held out together.

https://www.newburyportnews.com/sports/ ... 7367f.html

HOF Elvin Bethea told me that Gray was the toughest lineman he faced -- and he was ecstatic when Gray was traded to the Oilers.

Also, the crucial TD that Houston scored vs SD in the 79 playoffs at the end of the first half -- when they went on fourth down -- they ran the play towards Leon's side on purpose -- Phillips felt that was their best chance to score since Earl Campbell was out.