Bobby Dillon
Inducted:
2020
Player Stats
6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
180 lb (82 kg)
Born:
February 23, 1930
Pendleton, Texas, U.S.
Died:
August 22, 2019
Temple, Texas, U.S.
Position:
Defensive Back
College:
Texas
Bobby Dillon was one of the greatest defensive backs of the 1950s and a true ballhawk in the Green Bay Packers’ secondary. Despite losing an eye in childhood, Dillon starred as a free safety with sharp instincts, elite range, and a knack for making big plays. He played eight seasons (1952–1959), all with the Packers, and recorded 52 career interceptions in just 94 games — still the franchise record.
Dillon intercepted at least seven passes in four different seasons and was named to four Pro Bowls and five All-Pro teams. His blend of athleticism and football intelligence made him a standout in an era where passing was evolving rapidly.
Though overlooked for decades, his impact on the game was finally honored when he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020. Dillon was a true pioneer at the safety position, turning coverage into a dangerous weapon for his team.
Dillon's Awards and Honors
- 4× First-team All-Pro (1954, 1955, 1957, 1958)
- 4× Pro Bowl (1955–1958)
- Texas Sports Hall of Fame
- Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame
- First-team All-American (1951)
- First-team All-SWC (1951)
NFL Records
- One of the highest interception totals per game in NFL history
- Only player in NFL history with 50+ interceptions in fewer than 100 career games
- Led the NFL in interception return yards in 1956 (244 yards)
- Member of the NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
NFL Teams
Green Bay Packers (1952–1959)
NFL Draft:
1952: 3rd round, 28th pick
Green Bay Packers
Number Worn:
44
NFL Stats
Seasons:
8 (1952–1959)
Games Played:
94
Interceptions:
52
Interception Return Yards:
976
Interception TDs:
5
Fumble Recoveries:
3
Touchdowns (Defensive):
6