Joe Stydahar
Inducted:
1967
Player Stats
6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)
233 lb (106 kg)
Born:
March 17, 1912
Kaylor, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Died:
March 23, 1977
Beckley, West Virginia, U.S.
Position:
Tackle
Coach
College:
West Virginia (1933–1935)
Joe Stydahar, one of the NFL’s original dominant linemen, became a cornerstone of the Chicago Bears dynasty of the 1940s. Selected in the first round of the inaugural 1936 NFL Draft, he brought rare size, strength, and agility to both tackle positions. Stydahar anchored George Halas’ powerful line, helping the Bears win three NFL Championships and revolutionize line play through overwhelming physicality and disciplined technique.
A four-time All-Pro, he was known for explosive run blocking and the ability to control defenders at the point of attack. After his playing career, Stydahar shifted to coaching and contributed to two Los Angeles Rams championship teams, proving his football genius extended well beyond the field.
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1967, Stydahar’s legacy remains that of a foundational figure in line play—one who helped shape the rugged identity of early professional football.
Stydahar's Awards and Honors
- 3× NFL champion (1940, 1941, 1946)
- 4× First-team All-Pro (1937–1940)
- Second-team All-Pro (1936)
- 4× NFL All-Star (1938–1941)
- 2× NFL champion (1951, 1963)
Notable Achievements
- Member of the NFL’s inaugural draft class
- Key contributor to Bears’ early dynasty
- Known for exceptional run-blocking consistency and ability to control defenders at the point of attack
NFL Teams
As Player
Chicago Bears (1936–1942; 1945–1946)
As Coach-
Los Angeles Rams (1947–1949,1950–1951)
Chicago Cardinals (1953–1954)
Chicago Bears (1963–1965)
NFL Draft:
1936: 1st round, 6th overall pick
Chicago Bears
Number Worn:
13, 18
NFL Stats
Seasons:
9 (1936–1942, 1945-46)
Games played:
84
Games started:
53
Interceptions:
1
Fumble recoveries:
2
Field gold Attempted:
2
Extra point made:
28
NFL Championships:
3