In football, Amerson played both offense and defense and was named to the Texas Oil Bowl in 1957 as a quarterback.
[6][5] He appeared in 14 games with Philadelphia in 1961 and became a starter at defensive halfback after an injury to Tom Brookshier.
[7][8] On April 28, 1962, Amerson was hospitalized after suffering face and head injuries in a car accident in Lubbock, Texas that required 500 stitches.
[9][10] During training camp, he was diagnosed with either encephalitis or a sleeping sickness and missed the 1962 season.
[11] Placed on waivers by the Eagles, he was signed by the Houston Oilers in 1963 but was released due to concerns over his medical records.