Billy Cannon’s journey from a standout college player to an honored Hall of Famer is both remarkable and complex. Best known for winning the Heisman Trophy in 1959, Cannon led Louisiana State University (LSU) to a national championship in 1958.
His stellar performance earned him a spot in the College Football Hall of Fame in 2008, solidifying his legacy in college football history.
In addition to his accomplishments on the field, Cannon’s life took unexpected turns, including an infamous involvement in a counterfeiting scheme that temporarily derailed his status in the Hall of Fame. Despite these challenges, his contributions to the sport remain significant.
His story offers a nuanced look at the highs and lows of an athlete who had an indelible impact on football.
Today, Billy Cannon is remembered not just for his athletic achievements but also for his ability to overcome personal setbacks. This combination makes his life story both captivating and instructive, ensuring his place in the annals of football history.
Who Is Billy Cannon?
Billy Cannon was a renowned American football player who left a significant mark in both college and professional football. He is known for winning the Heisman Trophy in 1959 and playing for Louisiana State University (LSU), where he became a college football legend.
Where Did Billy Cannon Grow Up?
Billy Cannon grew up in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He was born on August 2, 1937, and spent much of his early life in the area.
Baton Rouge, known for its vibrant culture and strong community, played a significant role in shaping his early years.
Billy’s athletic talent was evident from a young age. He attended Istrouma High School, where he excelled in multiple sports, but football was his standout area.
His high school performance set the stage for his future success in college football at LSU.
Where Did Billy Cannon Live?
In his later years, Billy Cannon lived in St. Francisville, Louisiana. After a storied football career, he preferred to stay close to his roots.
St. Francisville is about 30 miles north of Baton Rouge, providing a quieter, small-town atmosphere.
Even after his football career ended, Cannon remained connected to the region. His home in St. Francisville provided a peaceful environment where he spent his final days until his passing on May 20, 2018.
Who Is Billy Cannon Married To?
Billy Cannon was married to Dorothy “Dot” Horton. The couple had a long-lasting marriage that spanned several decades.
Dot remained a constant partner and supporter throughout various phases of Billy’s life, including his football career, legal troubles, and post-football endeavors.
Their relationship was one of mutual support and understanding, helping them navigate the highs and lows that came with Billy’s public life. Dot was known to be a stabilizing force in Billy’s often tumultuous life.
Does Billy Cannon Have Children?
Billy Cannon and his wife, Dot, had five children. His family life, though kept relatively private, played an essential role in his later years.
Billy’s children were an important part of his life, contributing to the family dynamic that provided him with support and love. Despite the ups and downs, including his legal troubles related to counterfeiting, his family stood by him.
The connections with his children and grandchildren were vital to him, especially as he transitioned from being a football star to other roles, including his work as a prison dentist.
Billy Cannon College Football Career
Billy Cannon’s college football career at LSU is marked by remarkable achievements and defining moments that left an indelible mark on the sport. From securing prestigious individual awards to leading his team to memorable victories, Cannon’s time at LSU showcased his extraordinary talent and leadership on the field.
Where Did Billy Cannon Play College Football?
Billy Cannon played college football at Louisiana State University (LSU). He joined the LSU Tigers and made an immediate impact as a halfback, return specialist, and safety.
Cannon’s athletic prowess was evident through his versatility and contributions in multiple positions, playing under head coach Paul Dietzel.
Cannon’s performance at LSU was highlighted by his iconic punt return against Ole Miss, known as “The Run,” which remains one of the most memorable plays in college football history.
He played his home games at Tiger Stadium, where he thrilled fans with his remarkable speed and agility. His contributions significantly boosted LSU’s prominence in the SEC during his tenure from 1957 to 1959.
Did Billy Cannon Coach College Football?
Billy Cannon did not transition into a coaching career within college football. After his illustrious playing career at LSU, he pursued a professional career in the American Football League (AFL) and the National Football League (NFL).
His post-playing career included various endeavors, but coaching college football was not among them.
Cannon’s legacy in college football remained as a player, remembered for his incredible performances and the impact he had on LSU’s football program. His decision to not pursue coaching allowed him to focus on other aspects of his life, including his work as a dentist and other personal pursuits.
What Awards Did Billy Cannon Accomplish in College Football?
Billy Cannon’s list of awards in college football is impressive. He won the prestigious Heisman Trophy in 1959, a testament to his outstanding performance as a halfback.
In the same year, he also secured the Walter Camp Player of the Year Award, further cementing his status as one of the best players in college football.
Cannon was a two-time All-America selection, being a unanimous choice in 1958 and a consensus pick in 1959. He was named the Associated Press and United Press International Back of the Year in 1958.
His accolades did not stop there; he led the Tigers to a national championship in 1958, showcasing his leadership on the field.
What Bowl Games Did Billy Cannon Win in College Football?
Billy Cannon’s college football career at LSU included significant victories in bowl games. His most notable achievement was leading the Tigers to win the Sugar Bowl in the 1958 season. This victory was crucial in securing LSU’s national championship that year.
In the Sugar Bowl, Cannon’s performance was stellar, contributing to LSU’s dominant win. His ability to make game-saving tackles and critical plays during the bowl games showcased his all-around skills and determination.
These performances in major bowl games solidified his reputation as a clutch player who thrived in high-pressure situations.
Billy Cannon Professional Football Career
Billy Cannon’s professional football career spanned over a decade in the American Football League (AFL) and the National Football League (NFL). During this time, he played for several teams and earned significant accolades for his performance on the field.
Did Billy Cannon Play In The NFL?
Yes, Billy Cannon played in both the AFL and the NFL. After a standout college career at LSU, Cannon was a first-round pick in the 1960 AFL Draft by the Houston Oilers. He also signed with the Los Angeles Rams of the NFL, but court proceedings eventually ruled him as property of the Oilers.
Cannon played with the Oilers from 1960 to 1963, earning All-Star honors. In 1964, he joined the Oakland Raiders, where he continued to excel, moving to the tight end position later in his career. Cannon wrapped up his professional career with the Kansas City Chiefs in 1970.
Did Billy Cannon Coach In The NFL?
Billy Cannon did not transition to a coaching role in the NFL after his playing career. Instead, he chose a different path. After retiring from professional football, Cannon pivoted to his field of study, dentistry, and became an orthodontist.
His focus on his new career meant that he did not take up any coaching positions in professional football.
What Awards Did Billy Cannon Accomplish In Professional Football?
Billy Cannon achieved numerous awards during his professional football career. In the AFL, he was named an All-Star twice and contributed significantly to his teams.
His versatility in playing both halfback and tight end allowed him to leave a lasting impact on the field.
Cannon’s performance with the Houston Oilers included important contributions to their championship victories. Known for his speed and agility, he made a seamless transition from a college star to a professional standout, solidifying his place in football history.
Did Billy Cannon Win A Super Bowl?
Billy Cannon did not win a Super Bowl during his professional career. Super Bowl events started in 1967, and while Cannon played in the NFL during the Super Bowl era, he did not reach the championship game.
His most notable championship successes came in the AFL, where he was instrumental in the Houston Oilers’ early 1960s titles.
Despite not winning a Super Bowl, Cannon’s contributions to his teams, specifically the Houston Oilers and Oakland Raiders, are fondly remembered. His legacy as a top-tier professional football player remains intact.
What Is Billy Cannon Up To Now?
Billy Cannon, an LSU legend and College Football Hall of Famer, is remembered both for his achievements on the field and his complex life outside of it. Here’s what he has been involved in more recently, including his ties to football and other activities.
Is Billy Cannon Still Involved In Football?
Billy Cannon was not actively involved in football towards the latter part of his life. After his illustrious career, he turned to other pursuits.
He was famously inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as one of the sport’s greats. Despite his past achievements, Cannon chose to focus on personal matters rather than stay active in the sport.
Does Billy Cannon Do Private Speaking Engagements?
Billy Cannon participated in some speaking engagements, especially those related to his football career and redemption story.
His life, marked by both accolades and challenges, including a period spent in prison for counterfeiting, intrigued many audiences. Thus, he was sometimes invited to share his experiences and lessons learned.
Does Billy Cannon Have A Podcast?
Billy Cannon did not have a podcast. Given his age and the period when he was most active, podcasts were not a widespread medium at that time.
Instead, stories about his life and career have been documented in articles and interviews by various sports journalists and platforms.
Has Billy Cannon Gone Into Broadcasting?
Billy Cannon did not transition into a broadcasting career. His focus after football was largely outside the public eye.
Nonetheless, his story has been revisited and told through various media channels, offering insights into both his football triumphs and personal trials.
What Is Billy Cannon Net Worth?
Billy Cannon was not just a football legend but also had a career outside the sport.
After his notable football career, he earned a degree in dentistry. He built a dental practice and worked as a dentist for many years.
This second career contributed significantly to his net worth. As a dentist, he had a stable and respectable income.
Dental practices tend to be financially rewarding, adding to his post-football financial stability. Cannon’s football achievements also brought financial rewards.
Winning the Heisman Trophy in 1959 and playing in the NFL and AFL would have provided him with significant earnings. In later years, being inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame and other halls of fame increased his public profile.
This recognition may have brought opportunities for speaking engagements and endorsements. Here is a summary of his income sources:
| Source | Description |
|---|---|
| Football Career | Earnings from NFL and AFL |
| Dentistry | Income from his dental practice |
| Endorsements | Potential earnings from public appearances |
Cannon’s net worth at the time of his death also included various investments and possibly real estate holdings.
While exact figures are not publicly available, the combination of his football salary, dental practice, and endorsements would account for a considerable net worth.