Celebrating a Legend: Happy 67th Birthday to Ray Donaldson, Former Georgia Star Center, Linebacker-Turned-Offensive Line Anchor of the Vince Dooley Era, and UGASports’ Pick as the Greatest Bulldog Ever to Wear No. 53
On May 18, 2025, we celebrate the 67th birthday of Ray Donaldson—a name synonymous with resilience, versatility, and excellence in both college and professional football. From his unexpected transition from linebacker to center at the University of Georgia to his remarkable 17-season NFL career, Donaldson’s journey is a testament to adaptability and determination.
Born in Rome, Georgia, Donaldson attended East Rome High School, where he excelled in football and basketball. Initially recruited by the University of Georgia (UGA) as a linebacker, he joined the Bulldogs in 1976. However, midway through the 1977 season, due to injuries on the offensive line, head coach Vince Dooley made a pivotal decision—moving Donaldson to center, a position he had never played before. This transition was unprecedented, and Dooley later remarked it was “the most unusual thing I’ve seen since I’ve been coaching” .
Despite having no prior experience at center, Donaldson embraced the challenge. He gained weight, honed his skills, and by the end of the 1977 season, he had secured the starting center position. Over the next two seasons, Donaldson’s performance solidified his status as one of the best offensive linemen in the SEC. In 1979, he was named First-Team All-SEC, Second-Team All-American by the NEA, and finished as the runner-up for the Jacob’s Blocking Trophy, awarded to the SEC’s top blocker .
Donaldson’s exceptional college performance paved the way for a distinguished NFL career. Selected by the Baltimore Colts in the second round of the 1980 NFL Draft (32nd overall), he became the first African-American starting center in NFL history . Over 17 seasons, Donaldson played for the Baltimore/Indianapolis Colts, Seattle Seahawks, and Dallas Cowboys, participating in 244 games and starting 228 .
His accolades include six Pro Bowl selections (1986–1989, 1995, 1996), a Second-Team All-Pro honor in 1987, and a Super Bowl XXX championship with the Dallas Cowboys. Donaldson was known for his durability, consistency, and leadership on the field, blocking for Hall of Fame running backs and contributing to multiple 1,000-yard rushing seasons .
Beyond his on-field achievements, Donaldson’s legacy is marked by his impact off the field. In 2006, he was inducted into the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, recognizing his contributions to Georgia football. His jersey number 53 was retired at East Rome High School, honoring his high school legacy .
UGASports, a prominent Georgia Bulldogs sports outlet, has lauded Donaldson as the greatest player to wear jersey number 53, highlighting his pivotal role in the Bulldogs’ offensive line during the Vince Dooley era .
Reflecting on his career, Donaldson attributes his success to his adaptability and willingness to embrace challenges. His journey from linebacker to center at UGA exemplifies his ability to excel in unfamiliar roles, a trait that defined his professional career.
As we celebrate Ray Donaldson’s 67th birthday, we honor not only his athletic accomplishments but also his resilience, leadership, and lasting impact on the sport of football. His story serves as an inspiration to athletes and individuals alike, demonstrating that with determination and adaptability, one can overcome challenges and achieve greatness.
