Ira Lynn Valentine was an American professional football running back who played one season in the National Football League for the Houston Oilers.
17 Facts About Ira Valentine
1.
2.
Ira Valentine played on defense for his first three seasons, only seeing time as a running back in his senior year.
3.
Ira Valentine was the first Marshall player to sign a letter-of-intent in 1982, signing at 8 am on February 10, the earliest possible time.
4.
Ira Valentine made the varsity roster in 1983 as the backup fullback.
5.
In 1984, Ira Valentine played as a reserve fullback and return specialist.
6.
Ira Valentine saw his first "extensive playing time" in 1985 and was the team's top blocking back.
7.
Ira Valentine saw more time as a ball-carrier in 1986 due to the departure of Anthony Toney.
8.
Ira Valentine finished his college career with 101 touches for 486 yards and six touchdowns.
9.
Ira Valentine was selected in the 12th round of the 1987 NFL draft by the Houston Oilers.
10.
In two preseason games against the Indianapolis Colts, Ira Valentine ran for 65 yards on 15 carries.
11.
Ira Valentine appeared in two playoff games, in a win over the Seattle Seahawks and in a loss to the Denver Broncos.
12.
Ira Valentine finished the season with five rushes for 10 yards, two catches for 10 yards, and one kickoff return for 13 yards for a total of 33 all-purpose yards.
13.
Ira Valentine appeared in seven total games as well as two playoff games.
14.
Ira Valentine entered the 1988 season competing with Alonzo Highsmith, Mike Rozier, Lorenzo White, Allen Pinkett, Spencer Tillman, and Ray Wallace for the starting running back job.
15.
Ira Valentine received a tryout with the St Louis Cardinals in October 1988, but was not signed.
16.
Ira Valentine returned to East Texas, where he grew up, after his football career ended and worked at a forging plant.
17.
Ira Valentine died July 6,2022, at the age of 59, from a heart attack.