American International College

Bruce Laird shined as a running back, defensive back, punter and kick returner for the Yellow Jackets from 1969-1971. A two-time Kodak All-American, he was also named to the AP and UPI All-New England All-Star teams in both 1970 and 1971. During his senior season, Laird rushed for 1,402 yards, a record that stood until Yellow Jacket Kavin Gailliard rushed for 1,971 yards in 1998. Laird was drafted in the sixth round by the Baltimore Colts of the National Football League in 1972. Laird went on to have a distinguished NFL career, spending 12 years in the league and finishing up his career with the San Diego Chargers in the ’82 and ’83 seasons. 

He started 121 of 141 games at strong safety during his 10-year stint with the Colts. He was named to the Pro Bowl team in his rookie campaign as a kickoff returner. He once won the NFL Kickoff Return championship, when he gained 843 yards on 29 attempts (29.1/attempt). Laird’s best season was in 1980 when he picked off a career-high five interceptions, deflected a career-high 19 pass plays, totaled 126 tackles and recovered one fumble that season, earning All-AFC honors from Pro Football Weekly and the New York Daily News along with All-Pro honors from Sports Illustrated.