Jim Parker, 71; Hall of Fame Offensive Lineman Protected Johnny Unitas

Jim Parker, 71, the first full-time offensive lineman named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, died Monday, the institution reported. The cause and place of death were not given.

Parker played guard and tackle for the Baltimore Colts from 1957 to 1967, with the job of protecting Hall of Fame quarterback Johnny Unitas. Parker was selected to the Pro Bowl eight times. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1973.

A native of Macon, Ga., the 6-foot, 3-inch, 272-pound Parker was a first-round draft pick in 1957 from Ohio State University, where he was a two-time All-American and the winner of the Outland Trophy.

He played left tackle in his first five years with the Colts. In his sixth season he played both guard and tackle as needed and then played left guard for four years. In his 11th season, he generally lined up against the opposition’s most troublesome lineman.