44 Days Until Kickoff: Remembering Mike Karney, the Last Great Fullback
With just 44 days remaining until the start of the college football season, it’s the perfect time to reflect on one of the most underrated positions in the sport’s history — and one of its best representatives: Mike Karney. Wearing No. 44 during his college days at Arizona State, Karney carved out a reputation as one of the toughest and most effective fullbacks of his era.
In a time when the fullback position was already beginning to fade from prominence, Karney stood out with his bruising blocks, smart play, and relentless effort. He wasn’t flashy, and he didn’t rack up stats, but his impact on the field was undeniable. As a Sun Devil, Karney was a key component of a high-powered offense, doing the dirty work that allowed tailbacks to shine and quarterbacks to stay protected.
Drafted in the fifth round of the 2004 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints, Karney brought the same grit and dependability to the professional ranks. He spent six seasons in the NFL, earning a Pro Bowl nod in 2006. Whether paving the way for Reggie Bush or delivering punishing lead blocks, Karney was the definition of old-school football toughness.
In today’s era, where fullbacks have become nearly extinct, Karney is often remembered as one of the last true greats at the position. His legacy serves as a reminder of a time when physicality and selflessness were hallmarks of the game.
As we count down the days to kickoff, honoring players like Mike Karney helps us appreciate the evolution of football — and those who gave everything without needing the s
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