Ollie Matson Hall Of Fame NFL

rezaul

Ollie Matson

Inducted:
1972

Image

Player Stats 

6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
220 lb (100 kg)

Born:
May 1, 1930
Trinity, Texas, U.S.

Died:
February 19, 2011
Los Angeles, California, U.S.

Position: 
Halfback
Return specialist

College:
San Francisco (1949–1951)

Ollie Matson was one of the most explosive and versatile players of his era, blending sprinter’s speed with football instinct to become a true game-changer. Drafted by the Chicago Cardinals in 1952, Matson’s rare athleticism allowed him to excel as a running back, receiver, and kick returner. Before his NFL career, he was an Olympic star, winning two medals (silver and bronze) at the 1952 Helsinki Games. On the field, he brought that same world-class speed to the NFL, earning six Pro Bowl selections and two First-Team All-Pro honors during his 14-year career.

Matson amassed over 12,800 all-purpose yards and 72 total touchdowns, making him one of the league’s most feared open-field threats. His ability to score from anywhere on the field set a new standard for versatility and athleticism. A pioneer who helped bridge track excellence with football dominance, Ollie Matson was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1972 for his outstanding all-around play.

Matson's Awards and Honors

  • 7× First-team All-Pro (1952, 1954–1959)
  • 6× Pro Bowl (1952, 1954–1958)
  • 2× First-Team All-Pro
  • NFL punt return yards leader (1955)
  • NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
  • Olympic Silver and Bronze Medalist (1952)

NFL Records

    • One of the first NFL players to record touchdowns by rush, reception, and return in multiple seasons
    • Combined Olympic track success with NFL stardom
    • Inducted into the College and Pro Football Halls of Fame

    NFL Teams

    Chicago Cardinals (1952–1958)
    Los Angeles Rams (1959–1962)
    Detroit Lions (1963)
    Philadelphia Eagles (1964–1966)

    NFL Draft:
    1952: 1st round, 3rd overall pick
    Chicago Cardinals

    Number Worn:
    33, 30

    NFL Stats

    Seasons:
    14 (1952–1966)
    Games Played:
    171
    Game Started:
    107
    Rushing yards:
    5,173
    Rushing average:
    4.4
    Rushing touchdowns:
    40
    Receptions:
    222
    Receiving yards:
    3,285
    Receiving touchdowns:
    23
    Return yards:
    4,341
    Return touchdowns:
    9