In a heartwarming and long-overdue tribute, the Oklahoma Sooners and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have come together to officially declare “Lee Roy Selmon Day,” honoring the enduring legacy of one of the most respected figures in football history. A defensive titan on the field and a trailblazing figure off it, Selmon’s memory continues to resonate across generations of players, fans, and communities alike. This historic recognition not only pays homage to his athletic greatness but also to the grace, humility, and leadership he embodied throughout his life.
A Sooner Legend Is Born
Born on October 20, 1954, in Eufaula, Oklahoma, Lee Roy Selmon rose from modest beginnings to become one of the greatest defensive players in college football history. As the youngest of nine siblings, including Dewey and Lucious—both of whom also played at Oklahoma—Selmon’s early years were rooted in hard work and strong family values.
At the University of Oklahoma, Selmon played under legendary coach Barry Switzer and became the cornerstone of the Sooners’ feared defense. From 1972 to 1975, he was a dominant force at defensive end, helping lead the Sooners to back-to-back national championships in 1974 and 1975. His impact on the field was undeniable: Selmon was a two-time All-American, the 1975 Lombardi Award winner, and recipient of the Outland Trophy, given to the nation’s top interior lineman.
But it wasn’t just his accolades that made Selmon revered—it was his character. Known for his soft-spoken demeanor and unshakeable integrity, he was described by Switzer as “the nicest fierce competitor you’ll ever meet.”
Drafted First Overall: Making History with Tampa Bay
Selmon made history in 1976 when he became the first-ever draft pick of the expansion Tampa Bay Buccaneers, selected No. 1 overall. Joining a team that would go winless in its first season, Selmon remained undeterred. He brought his relentless motor, unmatched skillset, and quiet leadership to a franchise in dire need of a cornerstone.
In the face of early struggles, Selmon quickly became a symbol of hope for Tampa Bay. His stats were impressive—78.5 career sacks, countless quarterback pressures, and an imposing presence that changed offensive game plans every week. But even more importantly, he was a model teammate and community leader.
Selmon’s defining season came in 1979, when he helped guide the Bucs to a stunning turnaround, culminating in a trip to the NFC Championship Game. That year, he was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year, cementing his status among the league’s elite.
He was a six-time Pro Bowler and was named to the NFL’s All-Decade Team of the 1980s. After a nine-year career—all with Tampa Bay—Selmon retired in 1984, still respected as the franchise’s greatest player.
Honoring a Legacy: Why “Lee Roy Selmon Day” Matters
The announcement of Lee Roy Selmon Day comes as both the University of Oklahoma and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers reflect on Selmon’s massive contributions to football and beyond. For decades, Selmon’s name has been synonymous with excellence, character, and humility.
The declaration of a dedicated day was spearheaded by a joint initiative between Oklahoma Athletics, the Selmon family, and the Buccaneers’ front office. The goal: to formally recognize Selmon’s enduring impact not just on the field, but in every community he touched.
Barry Switzer, who attended the dedication ceremony, called it “a moment long overdue.”
“Lee Roy was the gold standard. I’ve coached a lot of great players, but none better as a human being than Lee Roy Selmon,” Switzer said.
Oklahoma Athletic Director Joe Castiglione noted the uniqueness of the honor.
“You’ll rarely find someone who is so universally respected. Today is about more than football—it’s about legacy, leadership, and love for community.”
For the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, co-owner Bryan Glazer emphasized Selmon’s influence on the team’s culture.
“Lee Roy helped build this franchise from the ground up. His legacy is woven into every fiber of our organization. Declaring this day in his honor is the least we can do.”
Beyond the Gridiron: A Community Champion
After his playing days, Selmon never slowed down. He earned a master’s degree in public administration and served as an athletic administrator at the University of South Florida (USF), where he was instrumental in launching the university’s football program in 1997.
His community service was legendary. Selmon was deeply involved in charitable work, supporting causes from education to health care. He served on countless boards, including the United Way, Boy Scouts of America, and the Tampa Bay Sports Commission.
In 2009, the Bucs unveiled a statue of Selmon outside Raymond James Stadium. The nearby Selmon Expressway, a vital part of Tampa’s transportation network, was also named in his honor.
And yet, he remained humble to the end. When inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1995, Selmon used the moment not to gloat, but to thank others.
“Football gave me a platform. But I believe God gave me a purpose—to serve, to uplift, and to love,” he said during his Hall of Fame speech.
Emotional Family Tribute
The announcement of “Lee Roy Selmon Day” was met with deep emotion from Selmon’s family. His wife Claybra and children Lee Roy Jr., Chris, and Bree were in attendance at the ceremony held jointly at Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium and later at the Buccaneers’ facility in Tampa.
“This day means more than words can express,” said Claybra Selmon. “To see Lee Roy’s name continue to inspire and bring people together… that’s the real legacy.”
Chris Selmon added:
“He always taught us to do the right thing even when no one was watching. He lived that every day.”
A Day of Celebration and Reflection
“Lee Roy Selmon Day” will be observed annually, with the inaugural celebration packed with tributes, service events, and community outreach. Highlights from this year’s celebration included:
- A halftime tribute at an Oklahoma Sooners home football game, featuring a video montage narrated by Barry Switzer.
- NFL Game Day Recognition: The Buccaneers dedicated their game to Selmon’s memory, with players wearing commemorative patches.
- Scholarship Announcement: Both Oklahoma and USF jointly announced the Lee Roy Selmon Leadership Scholarship, awarded to student-athletes who demonstrate leadership, academic excellence, and community service.
- Community Service Day: Fans, alumni, and players from both programs participated in service projects across Tampa and Norman.
Selmon’s Legacy Lives On
It’s rare that an athlete’s greatness matches their goodness, but Lee Roy Selmon was that rare exception. His story is one of triumph over adversity, unwavering humility, and a lifelong commitment to lifting others.
His legacy is not just etched into statues or street signs—it lives on in the people and places he impacted. The players he mentored. The students he inspired. The fans he gave hope to. The communities he helped uplift. And now, with the declaration of “Lee Roy Selmon Day,” his legacy takes on an even greater permanence.
In a world that often glorifies the loudest voices and the flashiest players, Selmon’s life reminds us that greatness can—and often does—come in quiet strength and consistent character.
Final Thoughts
As the tributes pour in from former teammates, coaches, fans, and civic leaders, one thing is abundantly clear: Lee Roy Selmon’s impact will never be forgotten. His story remains a beacon for athletes young and old, a reminder that excellence is not just about wins and stats—but about who you are when the spotlight fades.
In Oklahoma and Tampa Bay, July 8 will now forever be a day of remembrance, celebration, and service. A day that says, simply but powerfully: thank you, Lee Roy.
