Frank Gifford
Inducted:
1977
Player Stats
6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
Weight: 197 lb (89 kg)
Born:
August 16, 1930
Santa Monica, California, U.S.
Died:
August 9, 2015
Greenwich, Connecticut, U.S.
Position:
Halfback
Flanker
Safety
Kicker
College:
Bakersfield (1948)
USC (1949–1951)
Frank Gifford was one of the NFL’s most versatile stars, excelling as a running back, receiver, and defensive back for the New York Giants from 1952 to 1964. He was the face of the franchise during its golden era, helping lead the Giants to five NFL Championship Games and winning the title in 1956. Gifford’s ability to run, catch, and even throw made him one of the most dynamic players of his generation. He earned MVP honors in 1956 and was selected to eight Pro Bowls at three different positions.
After retiring, Gifford transitioned into broadcasting, becoming a beloved voice of Monday Night Football for over two decades. His impact on the sport extended from the gridiron to the broadcast booth, shaping how fans experienced the game. Gifford was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1977, cementing his legacy as both a football icon and media pioneer.
Gifford's Awards and Honors
- 6× First-team All-Pro (1953, 1955–1959)
- 8× Pro Bowl (1953–1959, 1963)
- New York Giants Ring of Honor
- New York Giants No. 16 retired
- First-team All-American (1951)
- First-team All-PCC (1951)
NFL Records
- NFL champion (1956)
- NFL Most Valuable Player (1956)
- NFL Comeback Player of the Year (1962)
- NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
- First player to score 70+ career touchdowns
- Only player in NFL history selected to the Pro Bowl at three different positions
NFL Teams
New York Giants (1952–1960; 1962–1964)
NFL Draft:
1952: 1st round, 11th pick
New York Giants
Number Worn:
16
NFL Stats
Seasons:
1952–1964
Games Played:
136
Rushing Yards:
3,609 (Avg. 4.3)
Rushing touchdowns:
34
Receptions:
367
Receiving Yards:
5,434
Total Touchdowns:
77
Passing Touchdowns:
14
Interceptions:
2
Points scored:
484
Pro Bowls:
8
NFL MVP:
1956
