Mac Speedie
Inducted:
2020
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
203 lb (92 kg)
Born:
January 12, 1920
Odell, Illinois, U.S.
Died:
March 5, 1993
Laguna Hills, California, U.S.
Position:
End
College:
Utah
Mac Speedie was one of the most prolific receivers of pro football’s early modern era, starring for the Cleveland Browns from 1946 to 1952. Known for his elite speed, precise routes, and sure hands, Speedie became a cornerstone of Paul Brown’s innovative passing attack in the AAFC and later the NFL. He led the AAFC in receptions three times and receiving yards twice, while helping the Browns win multiple championships.
In just seven seasons, Speedie amassed production that rivaled players with far longer careers, showcasing his dominance in an era when passing was far less common. After leaving for the CFL due to a contract dispute, his NFL legacy was long overlooked, but his impact remained undeniable. Speedie was finally inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020, cementing his place among the league’s great early receivers.
Speedie's Awards and Honors
- 4× AAFC champion (1946–1949)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (1947–1949)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1950, 1952)
- 2× Pro Bowl (1950, 1952)
NFL Records
- NFL champion (1950)
- NFL 1940s All-Decade Team
- Among the earliest dominant modern receivers
- Led league in receptions and yards multiple times
- Averaged 16.0 yards per catch for his career
NFL Teams
Cleveland Browns (1946–1952)
NFL Draft:
1942: 15th round, 135th overall pick
Detroit Lions
Number Worn:
58, 88, 75, 70
NFL Stats
Seasons:
1946–1952
Games Played:
86
Games Started:
74
Receptions:
349
Receiving yards:
5,602
Receiving touchdowns:
33
Yards per Receptions:
16.1