Ed Podolak Biography

Edward Joseph Podolak, born September 1, 1947, was an American professional football player who played nine seasons as a running back for the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFL and NFL. He played college football for the Iowa Hawkeyes, contributing significantly to their program. At Atlantic High School, Podolak quarterbacked the Trojan football team to undefeated seasons in his junior and senior years, winning conference titles both times. He also played forward for the Atlantic Trojan basketball team, which reached two state tournament appearances. In 1968 Podolak rushed for 937 yards and eight touchdowns averaging six yards per carry, caught 12 passes for 188 yards and one touchdown. In 1968, he rushed for a then–Big Ten record of 286 yards on 17 carries in the Hawkeyes’ 68–34 victory over Northwestern. Following the 1968 season, Podolak earned All–Big 10 honors for his outstanding performance.