Central State University Athletics

Recruited from Cincinnati's Lockland High School by legendary coach James "Big Jim" Walker, Melvin Lunsford was a three-time letterman at Defensive End for the Central State University Marauders. An Honorable Mention All America selection in his freshman year, Lunsford went on to earn All America honors in both 1971 and 1972.

Noted for his intense style of play, Lunsford earned instant respect as an outstanding Defensive End. As one of Coach Walker's favorite players, he led the Marauder defense in Sacks for his three seasons and set a single season Sack record which held for many years. He also led or was tied for the lead in Tackles for Loss during his seasons as a Marauder.

Lunsford was drafted in the third round by the Oakland Raiders of the NFL's American Football Conference in 1972 as the 72nd overall selection. He was subsequenlty traded to the New England Patroits where he played from 1973 to 1980 as the team transitioned into a National Football League contender. Since the end of his professional career, Lunsford has returned to his hometown of Cincinnati and currently works with youth through Hamilton County Juvenile Court.