Chuck Howley
Inducted:
2023
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
228 lb (103 kg)
Born:
June 28, 1936
Wheeling, West Virginia, U.S.
Position:
Linebacker
College:
West Virginia (1954–1957)
Chuck Howley, born June 28, 1936, in Wheeling, West Virginia, was one of the NFL’s most versatile and dominant linebackers. Selected by the Chicago Bears in 1958, his early career was interrupted by a severe knee injury, leading him to briefly retire. He returned in 1961 with the Dallas Cowboys, where he became a cornerstone of their defense for over a decade. Known for his exceptional speed, instinct, and coverage skills, Howley earned six Pro Bowl selections and five First-Team All-Pro honors.
He remains the only player in Super Bowl history to win MVP honors while playing for the losing team (Super Bowl V) and was a key force in Dallas’ first championship victory in Super Bowl VI. Over 15 seasons, he recorded 25 interceptions, 26 fumble recoveries, and countless game-changing plays. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2023, Howley’s career is celebrated for resilience, athleticism, and game-breaking defensive brilliance.
Howley's Awards and Honors
- 6× Pro Bowl selection (1965–1967, 1969–1971)
- 5× First-Team All-Pro (1966–1970)
- Super Bowl V MVP (only losing team MVP)
- Super Bowl VI Champion
- Member of Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor
NFL Records
- First defensive player ever named Super Bowl MVP
- First non-quarterback to win Super Bowl MVP
- Only player in NFL history to win Super Bowl MVP while playing for the losing team
- One of only two players in NFL history to have an interception in three different Super Bowls
NFL Teams
Chicago Bears (1958–1959)
Dallas Cowboys (1961–1973)
NHL Draft:
1958: 1st round, 7th overall
Chicago Bears
Number Worn:
54
NFL Stats
Seasons Played:
15 (1958–1973)
Games played:
180
Interceptions:
25
Interception yards:
399
Fumble recoveries:
18
Total touchdowns:
3
Super Bowl MVP:
V
Super Bowls Won:
1 (VI)