Born in August 1950 in Santa Barbara, California, Sam Cunningham is a former American football professional who played as a fullback for ten seasons with the New England Patriots. He has his high school education at Santa Barbara and the University of South California respectively.

During his University days, Sam was a Letterman for the University of South California football team where he played as a fullback from 1970 to 1972. His College career was amazing as he had the opportunity to be part of USC’s national championship team.

In 1973, Sam Cunningham scored four touchdowns in the Rose Bowl. This achievement is till date a Rose Bowl record.

 

Sam Cunningham

Sam joined New England Patriots as a fullback in 1973. He played for the Patriots through to 1982 and had a tremendous career during his stay with the team.

He finished his career with the New England Patriots with 5,453 rushing yards, 210 receptions for 1,905 yards, and 49 touchdowns.
Cunningham was inducted into the Patriots Hall of Fame in 2010 and was selected for Pro Bowl in 1978.

Sam died on September 7, 2021, at age 71. With a total of 5,453 rushing yards, Sam Cunningham is still the all-time leading rusher for the New England Patriots.