( Five other African Americans played professionally prior to the NFL . )
In 1932 , he joined the Chicago Cardinals , becoming the thirteenth black player -- although the only one that season -- to appear in the National Football League since it was formally founded in 1920 .
( Five other African Americans played professionally prior to the National Football League . )
In 1932 , he joined the Chicago Cardinals , becoming the thirteenth black player -- although the only one that season -- to appear in the National Football League since it was formally founded in 1920 .