The Forgotten Athlete

It's always a good idea to take a step back and reflect on memories. And for that reason, we will be bringing a feature to you that will honor a former athlete. He can play any sport, for any team. No restrictions here. The only stipulation - you've likely never given them a second thought after they faded from athletic prominence.

So without further ado - I present your first Forgotten Athlete...





Merton Hanks!

Merton Hanks retired in 2001, but not before being an all pro safety for much of his career with the 49ers in the mid 90's. Considering I was only 11ish years old during his heyday, it wasn't his play that made me like him so much. It was his trademark "Sesame Strut". And it is still fantastic.

Here are two video's for your viewing pleasure of Merton Hanks.

First, the ‘Sesame Strut” in action against our beloved Eagles:






And finally, forward to the 1:43 mark for your Merton Hanks cameo. This neck convulsion dance gave him celebrity. Merton Hanks WAS ‘the strut’:






His Wikipedia page shows Hanks still works with the NFL as a senior manager and assistant director of operations in addition to going on regular speaking tours. One can only hope he Sesame Strut's off the stage after taking his turn at the podium.