Merlin Olsen

Our whole philosophy was to intimidate the quarterback. We were able to do it. We were pioneers. People still recognize us as, maybe, the best defensive line of all time.

I probably played hurt a lot more times than I should have.

Team doctors' jobs those days were to keep you on the field.

Parenting is perhaps the most important job we have in our lives.

At 285 pounds, I was extremely strong, and it was all usable strength that I could direct against opponents, not like that of a weightlifter, whose feats of power are all restricted.

The basketball coach cut me within two days, so I was back in the pool. I was the first one in the wall after the first 25 yards, but the last one out because I didn't have a flip turn.

I can ski out of my back door.

Jogging is my idea of nothing to do.

After a few games I knew I was going to be able to compete. The idea of being a star never crossed my mind.

One of life's most painful moments comes when we must admit that we didn't do our homework, that we are not prepared.

Economics comes easily to me, and we all seek out what we do well in life. I had in mind becoming a businessman. And I was good at logic and reasoning; figures were comfortable inside my head.

I believe in dreams. Being a Merlin, I also believe in magic; the kind of magic that begins when someone who cares reaches out for a child.