Dennis Henry Onkotz (born February 6, 1948) is an American former professional football player who was a linebacker for the New York Jets of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Penn State Nittany Lions, twice earning consensus All-American honors. He suffered a career ending injury during his first and only season with the Jets.

Early life

Onkotz attended Northampton Area High School in Northampton, Pennsylvania. He graduated in 1966. ^[1]

College career

He was named a consensus All-American in 1968 and 1969. An all-around athlete, Onkotz helped earn Penn State the nickname "Linebacker U," but thanks to his speed he also held the unlikely position of punt returner, with an impressive average of over 13 yards per return. ^[2] Onkotz still ranks first in school history for interceptions by a linebacker with 11. ^[1] Onkotz amassed 287 tackles, which still ranks third on the Lions' career list. His 11 interceptions are tied for eighth in school history. His three interception returns for touchdowns are a career record (since tied).Onkotz made the 1969 Academic All-America team and was also selected to play in the 1970 Hula Bowl. ^[3] In three seasons, he helped the Lions to a 30-2-1 record and three bowl games, including two Orange Bowl wins. ^[1]

In 1995, he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.

NFL career

Onkotz was selected in the third round of the 1970 NFL draft by the New York Jets. ^[4] However, a severely broken leg ended his professional career after just nine games played. ^{[3] [5]}

Personal life

Onkotz is a financial planner and affiliated with the Pennsylvania Financial Group. He lives with his wife, Diane, in Boalsburg, Pennsylvania near Penn State. He has four daughters, Dana, Gretchen, Rachel, and Carly. ^[1]

References