Overview

Richard Herbert "Dick" Alban (January 17, 1929 – April 8, 2016) was an American football defensive back who spent eight seasons in the National Football League. He played primarily with the Washington Redskins and later the Pittsburgh Steelers, competing during the 1950s decade when the modern passing game was evolving and defensive backs began to gain recognition for turnover production.

College and draft

Alban attended Northwestern University, where he was used on both offense and defense, lining up as a halfback and contributing in the secondary. After a collegiate career that demonstrated versatility and athleticism, he entered the 1952 NFL Draft and was selected in the ninth round. His two-way background reflected a common pattern of the era in which players often played multiple roles before professional specialization increased.

Professional career

Alban began his professional career with the Washington Redskins. He started all 12 games as a rookie and established himself as a dependable defensive back. In 1954 he posted a standout season, intercepting nine passes—one of the highest totals in the league that year—and earned selection to the Pro Bowl. In 1956 he was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he continued to contribute through the 1959 season, when he retired from the NFL. His career spanned a period of eight seasons in the NFL.

Playing style and responsibilities

As a defensive back in the 1950s, Alban’s responsibilities included pass coverage, supporting run defense, and generating turnovers by forcing or intercepting passes. Defensive backs of his era needed keen anticipation and ball skills to take advantage of quarterbacks who were beginning to throw more frequently. Alban’s nine-interception season indicates strong ball-hawking ability and situational awareness.

Highlights and notable facts

  • Born January 17, 1929; died April 8, 2016.
  • Played college football at Northwestern; saw action as halfback and defensive back (college football).
  • Drafted in the ninth round of the 1952 NFL Draft.
  • Started all 12 games as a rookie for Washington.
  • 1954: finished second in the league in interceptions with nine and was named to the Pro Bowl.
  • Traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1956 and retired after the 1959 season.

Legacy and context

Dick Alban is remembered as a productive defensive back during a formative era for pass defense. His 1954 interception total and Pro Bowl nod represent the peak of his on-field accomplishments and reflect how defensive playmakers were beginning to influence game outcomes more visibly. For those studying mid‑century NFL history, Alban’s career illustrates the transition from multi‑position college athletes to specialized professional defenders and the growing value placed on turnovers and pass defense. For additional team or league context see pages on the Washington Redskins and the NFL: interceptions and team histories linked for reference (overview).