Gerald Irons

Gerald Irons (born May 2, 1947 in Gary, Indiana) is a former American professional football player who played ten seasons in the National Football League. His youngest son Grant Irons played for the Oakland Raiders. Eldest son Gerald, Jr. played for the Nebraska Cornhuskers and middle son Jarrett was the fifth junior elected captain for the Michigan Wolverines. He has several NFL nephews and great nephews: David Irons, Kenny Irons and Paul Irons.[1] Gerald has been listed among the 100 greatest Cleveland Browns of all time.[2]

Gerald Irons
No. 86
Born: (1947-05-02) May 2, 1947
Gary, Indiana
Career information
Position(s)Linebacker
CollegeMaryland Eastern Shore
NFL draft1970 / Round: 3 / Pick: 76
Career history
As player
1970–1975Oakland Raiders
1976–1979Cleveland Browns

Education

Irons earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, formerly Maryland State College. He earned his master's degree in Business Administration from The University of Chicago, during 6 off-seasons, while playing professional football as a linebacker for the Oakland Raiders. He attended John Marshall Law School at night, while playing linebacker with the Cleveland Browns for 4 years. Cleveland, Ohio Jaycees named him “Man of the Year.”

Life after football

After 10 years in the NFL, he retired from football and moved his family to Texas. Five years after arriving in Texas, the Osaka Japan Jaycees selected him to represent the United States at its worldwide “Ten Outstanding Young Persons Conference,” held for 10 days in Osaka. During the conference, he met with the Crown Prince, Crown Princess, and with the Prime Minister. The Mayor of Osaka presented him with a gold key to the city of Osaka. Irons also speaks the Japanese language.

Irons is a Past President of the Conroe Independent School District Board of Trustees. He served on the CISD Board for over two decades.

Professional life

Irons is Senior Vice President of Business Development with Conine & Associates, Commercial Real Estate Advisors. He represents commercial real estate on behalf of The Woodlands Development Company. He was also on the field during the immaculate reception watching Franco Harris score the game winning touchdown in a huge playoff game.

Personal life

Irons has been married for 44 years to Myrna. They have raised three sons, all graduates of Conroe ISD high schools. All five members of The Irons Family were selected and honored by The Woodlands residents as “Original Hometown Heroes” at The Woodlands 25th Year Celebration.

Because of his work to his community, a new junior high named Irons Junior High School in The Woodlands, Texas has been named after him. The school opened in August 2012 and feeds into Oak Ridge High School.

Notes
  1. Schlabach, Mark (2006-08-25). "Irons brothers take long road to collegiate success". ESPN Internet Ventures. Retrieved 2007-11-26.
  2. Gonzo, Doc (2003-05-27). "Top 100 Browns of All-Time: 91 - 101". theOBR.com and Scout.com. Archived from the original on 2014-08-19. Retrieved 2007-11-26.

https://web.archive.org/web/20080509132824/http://www.conroeisd.net/about/board/irons.asp

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