Luke Martin Higgins (May 3, 1921 – October 11, 1991) was an American professional football guard who played one season with the Baltimore Colts of the All-America Football Conference (AAFC). He played college football at the University of Notre Dame.
Early life
Luke Martin Higgins was born on May 3, 1921, in Edgewater, New Jersey.[1] He attended Cliffside Park High School in Cliffside Park, New Jersey.[2]
College and military career
Higgins played college football for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish of the University of Notre Dame from 1941 to 1942.[2] His football career was interrupted by a stint in the United States Marine Corps during World War II.[2] He was awarded a Purple Heart after being seriously wounded in Italy in 1944.[3][4] Higgins returned to Notre Dame in 1946 and played for the football team that season.[5] The 1946 Fighting Irish were AP Poll national champions. Higgins also participated in the shot put during his time at Notre Dame.[6]
Professional career
Higgins was selected by the Cleveland Rams in the 23rd round, with the 235th overall pick, of the 1945 NFL draft.[1] He signed with the Baltimore Colts of the All-America Football Conference (AAFC) in 1947.[7] He played in 11 games for the Colts during the 1947 season.[1]
Personal life
Higgins died on October 11, 1991, in Largo, Florida.[1]
References
- ^ a b c d “Luke Higgins”. Pro Football Reference. Retrieved April 10, 2025.
- ^ a b c “Luke Higgins”. Pro Football Archives. Retrieved April 10, 2025.
- ^ Somogyi, Lou (May 24, 2014). “God, Country, Notre Dame”. notredame.247sports.com. Archived from the original on October 4, 2015. Retrieved October 4, 2015.
- ^ “Jim Costin says:”. The South Bend Tribune. November 14, 1944. p. 4. Retrieved April 10, 2025.
- ^ “Notre Dame”. The Oklahoma Courier. September 21, 1946. p. 4. Retrieved April 10, 2025.
- ^ “Spartan Track Team Defeats Irish, 78 to 44”. Chicago Tribune. May 19, 1946. Retrieved April 10, 2025.
- ^ “Luke Higgins Transactions”. Pro Football Archives. Retrieved April 10, 2025.