A West Monroe, Louisiana native, Stovall emerged as one of the program’s most adaptable performers during his three seasons with the Tigers from 1960 to 1962. He demonstrated remarkable versatility, starring at halfback, defensive back, and return duties while also handling punting responsibilities. His all-around impact helped define an era of LSU football that prized multi-faceted players who could contribute in multiple phases of the game.
In his senior season of 1962, Stovall earned unanimous All-American honors, a testament to his standout performance on both offense and defense. He was named the Southeastern Conference’s Most Valuable Player and finished as the runner-up in the Heisman Trophy voting, narrowly edged by Oregon State quarterback Terry Baker. Stovall played a pivotal role in LSU’s 1961 SEC championship run, contributing both on the offensive and defensive sides of the ball. Across his college career, he amassed more than 1,000 rushing yards with 13 rushing touchdowns, added 452 receiving yards with another touchdown, and tallied seven interceptions on defense. His punting prowess was also a standout, averaging 42.1 yards per punt in 1962. Stovall’s all-around excellence left a lasting imprint on LSU’s program and its history of multi-talented athletes.
LSU honored Stovall in 2018 by retiring his No. 21 jersey, recognizing his enduring contributions to the program. His impact extended beyond LSU, as he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2010, underscoring his place among the sport’s elite. He was also an inductee of the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame in 1981, highlighting his influence within the state’s athletic landscape.
His professional career began when the St. Louis Cardinals selected him with the No. 2 overall pick in the 1963 NFL Draft. Transitioning to the defensive backfield at the professional level, Stovall spent nine seasons in the NFL with the Cardinals. He earned three Pro Bowl selections and All-Pro recognition, a testament to his continued high-level play after college and his adaptability in the pros.
Following his playing days, Stovall moved into coaching. He returned to LSU as an assistant under longtime coach Charles McClendon, contributing to the program’s strategy and development. When head coach Bo Rein died in a plane crash before the 1980 season, Stovall was chosen to lead the Tigers as head coach. Over three seasons, his teams posted a record of 22-21-2, demonstrating competitiveness and resilience. The highlight of his tenure came in the 1982 season, when LSU finished 8-3-1, defeated several ranked opponents, and earned a berth in the Orange Bowl. In that era, LSU faced a highly competitive schedule, including a notable Orange Bowl appearance that capped a strong season despite a narrow loss to 12-1 Nebraska.
Stovall’s coaching recognition included being named the Walter Camp Football Foundation Coach of the Year, a reflection of his leadership and tactical acumen. After stepping away from the sidelines, he pursued an athletics administration path, becoming the athletic director at Louisiana Tech in 1990. This role marked a shift toward strengthening sports programs and facilities from an administrative vantage point, contributing to the broader development of collegiate athletics in the region.
Later in his career, Stovall returned to Baton Rouge and continued to contribute to the local sports community. He served as president and CEO of the Baton Rouge Area Sports Foundation, maintaining an active role in Louisiana sports and civic affairs. His legacy encompasses both on-field excellence and sustained involvement in the development of athletic programs and community sport initiatives.
Jerry Stovall’s life stood as a testament to versatility, leadership, and a deep commitment to Louisiana athletics. From his days as a standout all-around athlete at LSU to his successes in the NFL and his impact as a coach and administrator, he left an enduring imprint on programs, players, and fans who remember his varied roles and achievements. His passing marks the end of a notable chapter in LSU’s rich athletic history and in the broader story of football in Louisiana.
