Alex Karras, defensive lineman and actor, dies at 77

He was one of the National Football League’s most feared defensive tackles throughout the 1960s, bulling past offensive linemen and hounding quarterbacks. He also played the lovable dad in the 1980s TV sitcom “Webster.”

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Alex Karras, who gained fame in the NFL as a fearsome defensive lineman and later as an actor, has died. He was 77.

/ NFL via AP

Nov. 3, 1968

Los Angeles Rams’ Henry Dyer, center left, is hit by Karras (71) during an NFL game in Los Angeles. While Karras could bull over offensive lineman, he was also known for his quickness and ability to outwit his opponents.

/ AP

Nov. 8, 1970

New Orleans Saints kicker Tom Dempsey tries to kick a 63-yard field goal as Karras rushes in during an NFL game in New Orleans.

/ AP

1971

Karras played in the NFL from 1958 to 1970. He was named to four Pro Bowls and was a member of the NFL’s All-Decade team of the 1960s.

/ AP

Jan. 31, 1985

"Saturday Night Live" actor Billy Crystal, in character as "Fernando," center, is flanked by host Alex Karras and musical guest Tina Turner during a rehearsal in New York. As his football career ended, Karras took up acting, appearing for the first time onscreen as himself in “Paper Lion.” He also appeared as Mongo in the western spoof “Blazing Saddles.” He had numerous guest roles on television and starred as the father on TV sitcom “Webster.”

Marty Lederhandler / AP

Sept. 21, 2003

Karras attends a Detroit Lions NFL game at Ford Field in Detroit. Karras suffered from dementia, and he and his wife, Susan Clark, were two of 119 people who filed suit April 12, in U.S. District Court in Philadelphia, the latest complaint brought against the NFL by ex-players who say the league didn't do enough to protect them from head injuries.

Rebecca Cook / Reuters

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