At 14 years old, Jerry Ball was already keeping the books for his grandfather’s railroad car cleaning business in Beaumont, Texas. He attended West Brook High School, where he earned the nickname “Ice Box” while playing fullback, defensive end, and linebacker. During his senior year, Ball led the West Brook Bruins—in the school’s first year of existence—to a victory in the 1982 Texas 5A State Championship, one of the most memorable moments in Southeast Texas high school football history. Following his success at West Brook, Ball attended Southern Methodist University (SMU), where he transitioned from fullback to nose tackle. At SMU, Ball developed into one of the nation’s premier defensive linemen, earning All-American honors and recognition for his strength, discipline, and ability to dominate the line of scrimmage.

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In 1987, Ball was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the third round of the NFL Draft and immediately placed in the starting lineup as a nose tackle. During his rookie season, he made an immediate impact, earning a spot on the NFL All-Rookie Team. In his second year, Ball recorded 68 tackles and 18.5 sacks, including a memorable play in which he recorded the only safety ever allowed by Hall of Fame running back Eric Dickerson during his ten-year career. Throughout his time with the Lions, Ball was known for his ability to command double and even triple teams while still producing consistently. His leadership and performance earned him the nickname “The Governor” from head coach Wayne Fontes.

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In 1991, Ball suffered a serious knee injury caused by a then-legal “chop block.” He remained on the injured list through the end of that season and into 1992. The NFL later banned the move, instituting what became known as the “Jerry Ball Rule” to prevent similar injuries to other players. In 1993, Ball was traded to the Cleveland Browns for a third-round draft pick and continued to play at a high level despite lingering effects from his injury. Known for his strength and endurance, the 6'1", 300-pound Ball was quoted as saying, “nose tackle can only be played by a man with a neurological disorder,” a statement reflecting both the toughness and the demanding nature of the position.

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After leaving the Browns, Ball continued his professional career, playing for several teams, including the Minnesota Vikings and Oakland Raiders, before retiring from the NFL in 1999. Over the course of his twelve-year professional career, Ball earned a reputation as one of the league’s most reliable and respected defensive linemen, known for his consistency and durability in the trenches.

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Following his retirement from football, Ball transitioned into the business world. Drawing from his early experience helping with his grandfather’s business, he established Ice Box Sportswear, a Detroit-based clothing company officially licensed by the NFL. The company specialized in sportswear and merchandise, and Ball earned praise from league officials not only for the quality of his products but also for his professionalism and positive reputation within the football community.

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In 2007, Jerry Ball was inducted into the Museum of the Gulf Coast Sports Hall of Fame, honoring his outstanding career as an athlete and his contributions to the sport of football.