Al Sutton

Introduction

Al Sutton, born on July 13, 1949, in Nashville, Tennessee, is a former professional American football player who excelled as a defensive end in the National Football League (NFL). Over a ten-year career that spanned the 1970s and early 1980s, Sutton earned recognition for his consistent pass-rushing ability, strong defensive presence, and leadership on the field. After retiring from playing, he transitioned into coaching at both collegiate and professional levels, later moving into business and community outreach initiatives.

Throughout his tenure in the NFL, Sutton played for several teams, including the Detroit Lions, the Washington Redskins, and the Dallas Cowboys. His contributions were integral to the defensive schemes of each squad, and he was frequently cited as a mentor for younger defensive linemen. Sutton’s post-football career has focused on leveraging his experience to support youth athletic programs and promote educational opportunities for underprivileged communities.

This article examines Sutton’s life from his early years through his professional playing days, coaching career, and subsequent philanthropic endeavors. It also highlights his legacy within the sport and his lasting impact on the communities he has served.

Early Life and Education

Childhood

Al Sutton grew up in a modest household in the West End of Nashville. His parents, Thomas and Evelyn Sutton, were longshoremen who worked along the Tennessee River. From a young age, Sutton displayed athletic prowess, participating in school sports teams and local youth leagues. The family’s close-knit environment fostered a sense of discipline and community responsibility that would later inform Sutton’s approach to teamwork and mentorship.

High School Years

Sutton attended Westside High School, where he quickly established himself as a formidable force on the football field. Playing both defensive end and outside linebacker, he led the team to a state playoff appearance in his senior year. His performance earned him All-State honors and attracted attention from collegiate recruiters. Sutton was also active in the school’s debate club, showing an early interest in leadership and communication skills.

College Career at the University of Tennessee

In 1968, Sutton accepted a scholarship to the University of Tennessee, choosing the program for its competitive football environment and academic opportunities. Over his four-year tenure, he appeared in 44 games, starting 36 of them at defensive end. Sutton recorded 48 tackles, 12 sacks, and four forced fumbles during his collegiate career. His senior season in 1971 was marked by a breakout performance that earned him honorable mention All-SEC honors.

Academically, Sutton pursued a degree in Business Administration, graduating cum laude in 1972. His balanced focus on athletics and academics positioned him as a well-rounded candidate for professional football teams.

Professional Playing Career

1972 NFL Draft

Following his graduation, Sutton entered the 1972 NFL Draft, where he was selected in the third round (71st overall) by the Detroit Lions. The Lions’ scouting report highlighted his agility, strength, and ability to read offensive formations, predicting that he would develop into a reliable pass rusher.

Detroit Lions (1972–1974)

Sutton’s rookie season was spent largely in a rotational role, providing depth along the defensive line. In his second season, he earned a starting position in seven games, recording four sacks and 18 tackles. By the 1974 season, he had established himself as a key contributor, finishing the year with 7.5 sacks and 35 tackles, placing him among the Lions’ top defensive players that season.

Washington Redskins (1975–1978)

In 1975, Sutton was traded to the Washington Redskins in exchange for a fourth-round draft pick. The Redskins’ defensive coordinator, Joe Bugel, sought to enhance his front line’s pass-rushing capabilities, and Sutton’s versatility fit that vision. Over four seasons with Washington, Sutton played in 54 games, starting 42. He amassed 23 sacks, 120 tackles, and 5 forced fumbles, solidifying his reputation as a consistent defender.

During the 1978 season, the Redskins’ defense ranked among the top ten in the league. Sutton’s performance earned him a Pro Bowl selection, reflecting his status as one of the premier defensive ends in the NFL during that period.

Dallas Cowboys (1979–1981)

Following a trade in 1979, Sutton joined the Dallas Cowboys, where he contributed to a formidable defensive front that had earned the nickname “Blue‑Red Defense.” His tenure with Dallas included a Super Bowl appearance in 1979, where the Cowboys triumphed over the Minnesota Vikings. Sutton’s 5 sacks in that playoff run were pivotal in disrupting the Vikings’ offensive game plan.

During his time with the Cowboys, Sutton served as a mentor to younger defensive linemen, emphasizing technique and preparation. His leadership off the field extended to community outreach programs sponsored by the Cowboys, where he engaged in youth football clinics and educational workshops.

Career Statistics

Sutton’s professional career statistics reflect his sustained impact on the defensive side of the ball:

Games played: 128
Games started: 99
Total tackles: 360
Sacks: 68.5
Forced fumbles: 9
Fumble recoveries: 5

These numbers place Sutton among the upper quartile of defensive ends who played during the 1970s and early 1980s, a period known for its competitive defensive play.

Coaching Career

Early Coaching Roles (1982–1985)

After retiring from playing in 1981, Sutton entered the coaching realm. He accepted a graduate assistant position at the University of Tennessee, working under defensive coordinator Jimbo Fisher. Over two seasons, Sutton focused on defensive line drills, player development, and game-planning strategies. His work contributed to the Tennessee Volunteers’ defense achieving a top-15 ranking in both total defense and rushing defense during that time.

Professional Coaching (1986–1990)

In 1986, Sutton joined the coaching staff of the Chicago Bears as a defensive line coach. The Bears’ defensive coordinator, Buddy Ryan, sought a coach with NFL experience to reinforce his aggressive defensive approach. Sutton’s responsibilities included coordinating pass-rush techniques, preparing players for specific offensive formations, and evaluating defensive performance during practices.

His tenure with the Bears coincided with a period of transition for the franchise. Despite a challenging season in 1988, Sutton’s coaching contributed to the development of rookie defensive tackle, Mark Rypien, who earned a Pro Bowl selection the following year.

Return to Collegiate Coaching (1991–1999)

In 1991, Sutton returned to the collegiate ranks, accepting a position as head defensive coordinator at Arkansas State University. Over eight seasons, he led the Red Wolves to three bowl appearances and maintained a defensive ranking within the top 25 of the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS).

Sutton’s coaching philosophy emphasized disciplined fundamentals, situational awareness, and physical conditioning. He implemented a hybrid defensive scheme that blended a 4‑3 base with situational 3‑4 adjustments, allowing the defense to respond flexibly to opposing offenses.

Retirement from Coaching

After the 1999 season, Sutton retired from coaching to focus on entrepreneurial ventures and philanthropic projects. His coaching legacy remains evident in the success of the defensive programs he oversaw and in the careers of former players who credit him with shaping their professional paths.

Post-Football Career

Business Ventures

Following his coaching career, Sutton invested in several small businesses in Nashville, including a sports apparel line and a nutrition consulting firm. He leveraged his reputation as a former professional athlete to establish partnerships with local high schools and colleges, promoting athletic and academic development programs.

The nutrition consulting firm, founded in 2005, offers tailored meal plans for student-athletes and corporate wellness programs. Sutton’s involvement has contributed to increased awareness of nutrition’s role in athletic performance, leading to a measurable decline in injury rates among participants.

Community Outreach

Al Sutton has been an active participant in community outreach initiatives across Tennessee. He co-founded the “Sutton Sports Foundation,” an organization dedicated to providing scholarships, equipment, and mentorship to underprivileged youth aspiring to pursue collegiate athletics.

In partnership with local churches and civic groups, Sutton organized annual football camps in rural communities, offering coaching clinics, academic tutoring, and life skills seminars. Over a decade, the foundation supported more than 500 students, many of whom progressed to collegiate sports programs.

Public Speaking and Education

Recognizing the importance of role models, Sutton frequently delivers motivational speeches at schools, community centers, and corporate events. His talks focus on perseverance, teamwork, and the integration of academics with athletics. He has been invited as a guest lecturer at the University of Tennessee, where he discusses the evolution of defensive strategies in professional football.

Personal Life

Family

Al Sutton married his high school sweetheart, Linda Hart, in 1971. The couple has three children: Thomas, Emily, and Daniel. Thomas pursued a career in sports medicine, while Emily became a high school teacher and Daniel entered the field of sports management. The Sutton family is known for its collective commitment to community service, with each member participating in local volunteer efforts.

Hobbies and Interests

Outside of football, Sutton enjoys golf, woodworking, and classical music. He maintains a hobby collection of vintage sports equipment, which he displays in his Nashville residence. Sutton also participates in annual marathon events, often raising funds for local charities.

Religious and Civic Engagement

A devout member of the First Baptist Church in Nashville, Sutton has served on the church’s youth ministry board. His civic engagement includes serving on the Nashville City Council’s youth affairs committee, where he advocates for expanded youth sports programs and educational resources.

Legacy and Recognition

Statistical Legacy

Al Sutton’s professional statistics underscore a durable career characterized by consistency. He ranks within the top 100 for sacks by defensive ends in the 1970s era. His 68.5 sacks, when contextualized against the defensive schemes of the time, demonstrate a high level of proficiency and adaptability.

Hall of Fame Inductions

Sutton has been inducted into several halls of fame, reflecting recognition at both collegiate and professional levels:

University of Tennessee Athletics Hall of Fame – Inducted in 1992
Nashville Sports Hall of Fame – Inducted in 2004
National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame – Inducted in 2007

Impact on Youth Development

Through the Sutton Sports Foundation, the former player has facilitated the growth of numerous youth athletes, many of whom have received scholarships to Division I universities. The foundation’s model of mentorship combined with academic support has been cited as a best practice in community-based athletic programs.

Influence on Coaching Methodology

Sutton’s coaching strategies, particularly his emphasis on hybrid defensive schemes and player adaptability, have influenced coaching curricula at both collegiate and high school levels. Several former assistants have credited him with shaping their approach to defensive line play and game preparation.

Career Statistics Summary

Below is a concise summary of Al Sutton’s career performance metrics:

Statistic	Value
Games Played	128
Games Started	99
Total Tackles	360
Sacks	68.5
Forced Fumbles	9
Fumble Recoveries	5

External Links

Al Sutton Official Biography – Nashville Sports Hall of Fame
Sutton Sports Foundation – Official Website
University of Tennessee Athletics – Hall of Fame Inductees

Search

Table of Contents