Originally drafted as a tight end in the 17th round of the 1962 AFL Draft, Tom Sestak didn’t exactly seem destined for stardom. However, by the time his playing days were in the rear-view mirror, he had asserted himself as one of the best defensive tackles in Bills history.
It’s all the more impressive when you consider that Sestak hailed from McNeese State, which wasn’t a pro football factory back in those days (or even today, for that matter). Despite his “small school” pedigree, it didn’t take long for Sestak to assert himself as a disruptive force at defensive tackle.
In fact, Sestak’s first four seasons with the Bills were nearly flawless. From 1962 to 1965, the dominant defender earned four-straight selections as an AFL All-Star and was even named to the All-AFL Team from 1963 to 1965. Even in today’s NFL, it’s rare to see that type of early production and consistent standout play.
Sestak may not be on every Bills fans’ shortlist of former stars. However, if you weren’t aware of the impact defensive tackle from long ago, you’re now that much more knowledgeable about the franchise that owns your fandom.