Bill George
Inducted:
1974
Player Stats
6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
237 lb (108 kg)
Born:
October 27, 1929
Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Died:
September 30, 1982
Rockford, Illinois, U.S.
Position:
Linebacker
Guard
Defensive tackle
College:
Wake Forest (1947–1950)
Bill George revolutionized the game of football as the first true middle linebacker in NFL history. Originally a defensive lineman, he shifted to a stand-up position behind the line to better read plays—creating the linebacker role we recognize today. A fierce tackler and brilliant field general, George played 14 seasons (1952–1965), primarily with the Chicago Bears, finishing his career with the Los Angeles Rams.
He was the heart of the Bears' defense for over a decade, earning respect as a relentless competitor with unmatched football IQ. George was selected to eight straight Pro Bowls and was a key part of the Bears’ 1963 NFL Championship team. His ability to disrupt offenses made him one of the most feared defenders of his era.
George's Awards and Honors
- NFL champion (1963)
- 8× First-team All-Pro (1955–1961, 1963)
- 8× Pro Bowl (1954–1961)
- NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
- Chicago Bears No. 61 retired
- 100 greatest Bears of All-Time
NFL Records
- Credited as the NFL’s first true middle linebacker
- 8 consecutive Pro Bowl selections (1955–1962)
- 8 First-Team All-Pro selections
- NFL 1950s All-Decade Team – recognized as one of the best players of the decade
- Helped lead the Chicago Bears to the 1963 NFL Championship
NFL Teams
Chicago Bears (1952–1965)
Los Angeles Rams (1966)