George Collins (American football)

Collins was born in Macon, Georgia and attended Warner Robins High School. He was named All-State and an All-American as a senior.[1]

Collins was a member of the Georgia Bulldogs for four seasons. He began his collegiate career as a tight end, but was moved to the guard position by coaches who recognized his blocking abilities and encouraged him to gain weight.[2] He became a starter at guard and was named first team All-Southeastern Conference and a first team All-American by the Sporting News.[1]

Collins was selected in the fourth round of the 1978 NFL Draft by the St. Louis Cardinals.[3] He played five seasons with the Cardinals, playing in 69 games with 26 starts.[4] Collins started 13 games during the 1981 season, taking over at left tackle after starter Keith Wortman was waived.[5] He was traded to the San Francisco 49ers in April of 1983, but was cut during training camp.[6][7] Collins was later signed by the Jacksonville Bulls of the United States Football League and spent two seasons with the team.[8]

After retiring from professional football Collins returned to Georgia as a graduate assistant and earned a master of education degree. He became an offensive line coach at Valdosta State University after graduating.[9] He later entered teaching and was the head football coach at Perry High School, Houston County High School and Rutland High School before retiring in 2015.[10]