Brad Budde

Brad Budde playing for USC

Brad Budde (born May 9, 1958) is a former American football offensive lineman who played in the National Football League (NFL). He was a first-round pick in the 1980 NFL Draft, selected by the Kansas City Chiefs, where he played his entire professional career. Budde is notable for his collegiate football success at the University of Southern California (USC), where he was a consensus All-American and won the Outland Trophy in 1979, awarded annually to the best college football interior lineman in the United States.

Early Life and High School Career

Brad Budde was born in Detroit, Michigan, but his family moved to Southern California, where he attended Rockhurst High School in Kansas City, Missouri. During his high school career, Budde established himself as a standout offensive lineman, earning high school All-American honors and attracting attention from major college football programs across the country.

College Career

Budde chose to attend the University of Southern California, following in the footsteps of his father, Ed Budde, who also played for USC and had a successful NFL career with the Kansas City Chiefs. At USC, Brad Budde became a key player on the offensive line, starting as a guard. His performance on the field was exceptional, leading to his recognition as a consensus All-American in 1979. That same year, he was awarded the Outland Trophy, marking him as the nation's top college interior lineman. Budde's contributions were pivotal in USC's successful football seasons during his tenure, including a national championship win in 1978.

Professional Career

In the 1980 NFL Draft, Brad Budde was selected in the first round, 11th overall, by the Kansas City Chiefs, making him one of the highest-drafted offensive linemen that year. Budde's professional career spanned from 1980 to 1987, all with the Chiefs. Throughout his time in the NFL, Budde was known for his strength, durability, and work ethic, though his career was also marked by injuries that limited his playing time in certain seasons.

Post-Football Career

After retiring from professional football, Brad Budde focused on his life outside of the sport. He has been involved in various business ventures and has dedicated time to community service and youth sports programs. Budde's commitment to helping young athletes develop their skills and character reflects his ongoing passion for football and personal development.

Legacy

Brad Budde's legacy in football is marked by his achievements both in college and in the NFL. His receipt of the Outland Trophy and status as a consensus All-American at USC are testaments to his skill and impact as a collegiate athlete. Furthermore, his selection in the first round of the NFL Draft and contributions to the Kansas City Chiefs highlight his professional accomplishments. Budde's football lineage, being the son of a former NFL player and a successful player in his own right, adds to his notable legacy in the sport.

See Also

• List of University of Southern California people
• List of Kansas City Chiefs players
• Outland Trophy winners