Alex Karras
Inducted:
2020
Player Stats
6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
248 lb (112 kg)
Born:
July 15, 1935
Gary, Indiana, U.S.
Died:
October 10, 2012
Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Position:
Defensive tackle
College:
Iowa (1955–1957)
Alex Karras was one of the most dominant defensive tackles in NFL history, known for his relentless power, quickness, and charisma on and off the field. Born on July 15, 1935, he spent his entire 12-year career with the Detroit Lions from 1958 to 1970. Karras earned a reputation as the heart of Detroit’s defense, combining brute strength with exceptional technique to disrupt offenses.
A four-time Pro Bowl and three-time First-Team All-Pro selection, he was consistently one of the league’s most feared linemen. Beyond football, his wit and personality made him a fan favorite and later a successful actor. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020, Karras remains a symbol of toughness and versatility in NFL history.
Karras' Awards and Honors
- 4× Pro Bowl Selection (1959, 1960, 1961, 1965)
- 3× First-Team All-Pro (1960, 1961, 1965)
- NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
- Detroit Lions All-Time Team Member
- 6× Second-team All-Pro (1962, 1964, 1966–1969)
NFL Records
- Recorded an 100.0 career sacks before they were officially tracked
- Known for incredible strength and balance against double teams
- One of the most influential defensive tackles of the pre-modern NFL era
NFL Teams
Detroit Lions (1958–1962; 1964–1970)
NFL Draft:
1958: 1st round, 10th overall pick
Detroit Lions
Number Worn:
71
NFL Stats
Seasons:
12 (1958–1962; 1964–1970)
Games Played:
161
Game Started:
156
Fumble recoveries:
18
Interceptions:
4
Sacks:
100.0