Y.A. Tittle
Tittle was one of the greatest quarterbacks of his era. He also reflected the mindset and values of players in the ’60s. Remember, this was a time before sports science or concerns over athlete welfare. That’s why his coaches allowed him to continue in a brutal meeting with the Steelers in 1964. It gave rise to the iconic image above (via ESPN).

This was Tittle’s final season but that’s not a surprise because he suffered a beatdown. He played through a concussion in this game and had a cracked sternum. This is crazy but it shows the mental strength of these brave men. We don’t approve or recommend this to up-and-coming footballers but it’s impossible not to admire him.