Chris Hanburger Hall Of Fame NFL

Chris Hanburger, a tenacious linebacker for the Washington Redskins from 1965 to 1978, earned his place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2011. As head of Washington’s defense and recognized as its “defensive quarterback,” he was the bedrock of the Redskins’ success in the 1970s. His standout 1972 season helped lead the team to their first Super Bowl, as he hauled in four interceptions and anchored a dominant defense. Over his 14-year career, Hanburger intercepted 19 passes, returned two for touchdowns, and tied an NFL record with three fumble-recovery touchdowns.

A nine-time Pro Bowler and four-time First-team All-Pro, he was also honored repeatedly as All-Eastern Conference and All-NFC. Playing in 187 games with consistent grit and intelligence, Hanburger became one of the most reliable defenders of his generation. In 2011, after years of quiet excellence, he received long-overdue recognition with his Hall of Fame induction.

Hanburger's Awards and Honors

• 5× First-team All-Pro (1969, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1976)
• Second-team All-Pro (1974)
• 9× Pro Bowl (1966–1969, 1972–1976)
• 80 Greatest Redskins
• Washington Commanders Ring of Fame
• 2× First-team All-ACC (1963, 1964)

NFL Records

• Tied the NFL record for most fumble recoveries returned for touchdowns in a career (3)
• Set a Washington franchise record for most fumble recovery touchdowns at the time of his retirement
• Among linebackers, ranked among the all-time leaders in games played for a single team (187)
• One of the few linebackers in NFL history selected to nine Pro Bowls

NFL Teams

Washington Redskins (1965–1978)