Valero and defensive stalwart Gonzalo Rodriguez were once highly rated, but both came from Villarreal, which was relegated from Spain's Liga.

WSJ: Mortella's Approach Paying Off for Italian Soccer's Fiorentina

Culp was a defensive stalwart for the Kansas City Chiefs in the 1960s and '70s, and also played for the Houston Oilers and Detroit Lions.

NPR: Parcells, Sapp, Carter Among 7 Hall Inductees

Defensive stalwart Steve Cherundolo is out with a bad shoulder.

WSJ: U.S. Soccer: Americans Hexed in Cup Qualifier

"They're Indiana, " defiant defensive stalwart Andre Nation said.

WSJ: After First Four, JMU and La Salle Move On

This time, it was Van Persie, the club captain and player of the year in the Premier League, and Song, a stalwart defensive midfielder.

WSJ: Arsenal Opens to Familiar Script

Dwight Freeney, the 33 year-old defensive end for the Indianapolis Colts, is on the market, after 11 years as a stalwart with the team.

FORBES: Brian Urlacher's Departure From The Chicago Bears Proves Once Again That The NFL Is No Place For Nostalgia