Joe Fuller (2008) - Hall of Fame

Joe Fuller

Induction:
2008
Class:
1985

In the early-to-mid-1980s Joe Fuller was a force to be reckoned with on the University of Northern Iowa defense. Fuller was a defensive back for the Panthers from 1982-1985, instilling fear into opposing teams’ offenses. The All-American helped lead UNI to a record of 30-15 over four seasons, including a perfect 5-0 league record and a conference championship in 1985.

Fuller was named a Kodak All-American and Associated Press Honorable Mention All-American in 1985, along with earning all-conference honors in 1983, 1984 and 1985. But like many outstanding athletes, Fuller excelled in not just one sport, but also was a member of the UNI track and field team in 1983 and 1985.

Following his career with the Purple and Gold, Fuller’s outstanding football abilities allowed him to play professionally in the Canadian Football League and also in the NFL. Fuller was a member of the Saskatchewan Roughriders immediately following his four years as a Panther. After registering 66 tackles and seven interceptions for 131 yards, he began to turn heads of NFL scouts and earned a spot on the Minnesota Vikings developmental roster. A year later, Fuller found himself with the San Diego Chargers and then spent a year with the Green Bay Packers. Following three seasons with the NFL, Fuller returned to the CFL to play for the Ottawa Roughriders, Shreveport Pirates and Toronto Argonauts.