George McAfee
Inducted:
1966
Player Stats
6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
178 lb (81 kg)
Born:
March 13, 1918
Corbin, Kentucky, U.S.
Died:
March 4, 2009
Durham, North Carolina, U.S.
Position:
Halfback
Defensive back
Return specialist
College:
Duke (1937–1939)
George McAfee was one of the most electrifying and versatile players of the 1940s, known for his speed, agility, and all-around excellence. Nicknamed “One-Play McAfee” for his ability to change a game instantly, he starred for the Chicago Bears from 1940 to 1950, interrupted only by his World War II military service. McAfee could do it all — run, catch, return kicks, defend, and even pass — making him one of the league’s first true all-purpose threats. He helped the Bears capture three NFL Championships (1940, 1941, 1946), contributing in nearly every phase of the game.
A two-way standout, his vision and burst made him one of the most feared open-field runners of his era. Beyond his stats, McAfee’s versatility and impact symbolized the spirit of early NFL football — athleticism, toughness, and selflessness. His ability to dominate on both sides of the ball earned him a place among the legends of the game. George McAfee was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1966.
McAfee's Awards and Honors
- 3× NFL champion (1940, 1941, 1946)
- First-team All-Pro (1941)
- Pro Bowl (1941)
- NFL punt return yards leader (1948)
- NFL 1940s All-Decade Team
NFL Records
- Among the first great all-purpose players in NFL history
- Excelled as a runner, receiver, returner, and defender
- Known for his game-changing speed and versatility
NFL Teams
Chicago Bears (1940–1941; 1945–1950)
NFL Draft:
1940: 1st round, 2nd overall pick
Chicago Bears
Number Worn:
5
NFL Stats
Seasons:
8 (1940–1950)
Games Played:
75
Game Started:
35
Rushing yards:
1,685
Rushing touchdowns:
21
Receptions:
85
Receiving yards:
1,359
Receiving touchdowns:
11
Return yards:
1,919
Return touchdowns:
4
Interceptions:
25