Defensive end Alvis “Joe” Robb was a standout athlete at Texas Christian University (TCU) from 1956 to 1958, where he became known for his strength, discipline, and leadership on and off the field. As a senior, he served as tri-captain of the TCU Horned Frogs in 1958, helping lead a defensive unit that was among the best in the Southwest Conference. Robb capped off his college career by playing in the 1959 Cotton Bowl against Air Force, a hard-fought defensive battle that ended in a rare 0–0 tie — one of only a handful of scoreless results in major bowl history. His size, quickness, and relentless work ethic earned him respect from both teammates and coaches, setting the stage for a long and productive NFL career.

​

Robb was selected by the Chicago Bears in the 14th round of the 1959 NFL Draft, but before the season began, he was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles. His impact was immediate — as a rookie, he earned a starting role on the defensive line and played a key part in the Eagles’ rise to prominence. Robb was a cornerstone of Philadelphia’s defense during their 1960 championship season, a year in which the Eagles defeated Vince Lombardi’s Green Bay Packers 17–13 in the NFL title game. That season, he played in every game and logged more playing time than nearly any other player on the roster, a testament to his durability and consistency.

Before the 1961 season, Robb was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals, where he spent the prime of his career and developed into one of the most reliable and respected defensive ends in the league. Over seven seasons with St. Louis, he became known for his ability to pressure quarterbacks, disrupt running plays, and command double teams. In 1967, Robb’s stellar play earned him a selection to the Pro Bowl, marking the peak of his professional success. His performance that year solidified his reputation as one of the top defensive ends of the 1960s, recognized for both his strength and intelligent approach to the game.

​

In 1968, Robb joined the Detroit Lions, where he brought veteran leadership and stability to the team’s defensive front. He continued to be a consistent presence on the field, known for his toughness and professionalism, and played through the 1971 season before retiring from the NFL. Over the course of his 13-year professional career, Robb appeared in more than 160 games — a remarkable achievement for a defensive lineman of his era. His career was defined by durability, quiet leadership, and a relentless commitment to excellence, earning him respect across the league as one of the most dependable defensive players of his generation.