These KC Chiefs players struck iconic poses, and now everyone tries to emulate them
Every autumn, as the leaves turn golden and football fever sweeps across America, players of all levels prepare for the season ahead.
And part of that preparation involves the annual media day. The poses struck on those fields in the 1960s have become so ingrained in pop culture that they’re still imitated today. Whether at a tailgate, on a playground, or for a social media post, everyone seems to know how to “strike a football pose.”
The photographs made were a showcase of individuality, particularly for teams like the Kansas City Chiefs. Photographers captured dramatic shots of players that emphasized their strengths: a lineman’s powerful crouch, a receiver’s leap, or a quarterback’s poised throw. These portraits didn’t just capture athletes—they immortalized the spirit of the sport.
The Chiefs embraced this tradition with flair, featuring iconic players like Len Dawson, the quarterback who led the team to its first Super Bowl victory. Offensive lineman Jim Tyrer often posed with a stance that underscored his dominance in the trenches, while fullback Gene Thomas embodied the team’s strength and versatility. Defensive lineman Ernie Ladd, nicknamed “The Big Cat,” struck fearsome poses that highlighted his towering presence.
Explore our gallery of Kansas City Chiefs portraits from the 1960s and relive the golden age of football through these iconic images.
This story was originally published January 17, 2025 at 12:02 PM.
