George Halas upon, learning of George Allen and the Los Angeles Rams' deal, was off to court seeking an injunction to stop Allen from taking the job with the Rams.

 

The suit was in the Circuit Court of Cook County in Chicago, before Judge Cornelius J. Harrington. Albert Jenner knew the word that terrified the NFL -" antitrust". Jenner saw the highly restrictive contract between Halas and Allen as resulting in restraint of trade, namely Allen not having any right to seek other employment. Halas had in fact taken a public relations beating for signing Allen to such a contract. After opening arguments, Judge Harrington determined that a contract did exist, and then entertained the next question - whether Allen should be enjoined from leaving the Bears. It was at this time in the matter that Halas decided to address the court and announced that the contract being valid, he was withdrawing the suit and allowing Allen to join the Rams. Of course, if Halas had prevailed, there would be virtually no way he could continue to work with Allen.

Even more importantly, at this time in 1966 NFL-AFL merger talks were heating up and the NFL did not want to deal with any antitrust matter stemming from the Halas - Allen suit.

 

George Allen was off to the Rams for the 1966 season, where he would begin to turn around the franchise. Allen remained with the Rams through the 1970 season. It was this era that saw the Rams shine with the likes of  Deacon Jones, Merlin Olsen, Jack Pardee, Roman Gabriel, Bernie Casey and Jack Snow.

 

Over the next few weeks there will continue to be news of coaching changes in both the college and pro ranks, but few will bring the excitement and legal proceedings that were witnessed in 1966 with two legends of the game.

Be sure to check out this 'Sports Illustrated' link for more on Halas and Allen.