Hampton Athletics Hall of Fame
Lucien Reeberg
- Induction:
- 2026
A 6-foot-4, 290-pound lineman, Lucien Reeberg played along both the offensive and defensive lines for Hampton from 1959-62. He helped anchor the team's defensive front and his strength, power and versatility drew the attention of pro scouts. A standout in the classroom as well as on the football field, the intelligent Reeberg majored in mathematics and was a member of the university's Mathematics Men's Council. His dominating play and intellect led the Detroit Lions to draft Reeberg in the 19th round of the 1963 NFL Draft. Reeberg weighed 317-pounds when he reported to training camp. But, with his brute strength, he earned a spot on the roster. By mid-season, he was Detroit's starting offensive tackle. After signing a new contract, Coach George Wilson mandated that Reeberg reduce his weight to 250 pounds. He entered Detroit Osteopathic Hospital for a routine examination and was diagnosed uremic poisoning and underlying kidney issues. On Jan. 31, 1964, just nine days after his admission and at the age of 21, Reeberg suffered cardiac arrest and died at the age of 21.
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