Search By First Name of HOFers
Barry Sanders
Inducted:
2004
Player Stats
5 ft 8 in (1.73 m)
200 lb (91 kg)
Born:
July 16, 1968
Wichita, Kansas, U.S.
Position:
Running back
College:
Oklahoma State (1986–1988)
Barry Sanders was one of the most electrifying running backs in NFL history, known for his breathtaking agility, balance, and impossible-to-tackle style. Born in 1968, Sanders played his entire 10-year career with the Detroit Lions from 1989 to 1998. Despite retiring early, he amassed 15,269 rushing yards and 99 touchdowns, ranking among the league’s all-time leaders. Sanders’ quick cuts, low center of gravity, and vision made him a nightmare for defenders and a joy for fans.
He rushed for over 1,000 yards in every season of his career, including an incredible 2,053 yards in 1997, when he was named NFL MVP. A 10-time Pro Bowl selection and one of the most humble superstars in sports, Sanders let his play speak louder than words. His combination of consistency and highlight-reel brilliance made him a legend. Barry Sanders was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2004.
Sanders' Awards and Honors
- NFL Most Valuable Player (1997)
- 2× NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1994, 1997)
- NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (1989)
- 6× First-team All-Pro (1989–1991, 1994, 1995, 1997)
- 4× Second-team All-Pro (1992, 1993, 1996, 1998)
- 10× Pro Bowl (1989–1998)
- 4× NFL rushing yards leader (1990, 1994, 1996, 1997)
NFL Records
- NFL rushing touchdowns leader (1991)
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- 2,053 rushing yards in 1997 (third-highest single season in history)
- Retired less than 1,500 yards shy of all-time rushing record
- Only player with five consecutive 1,500-yard seasons
NFL Teams
Detroit Lions (1989–1998)
NHL Draft:
1989: 1st round, 3rd overall pick
Detroit Lions
Number Worn:
20
NFL Stats
Seasons:
10 (1989–1998)
Games Played:
153
Game Started:
151
Rushing yards:
15,269
Rushing average:
5.0
Rushing touchdowns:
99
Receptions:
352
Receiving yards:
2,921
Receiving touchdowns:
10
Bart Starr
Inducted:
1977
Player Stats
6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
197 lb (89 kg)
Born:
January 9, 1934
Montgomery, Alabama, U.S.
Died:
May 26, 2019
Birmingham, Alabama, U.S.
Position:
Quarterback
College:
Alabama (1952–1955)
Bart Starr was the calm, disciplined leader of the Green Bay Packers dynasty under Vince Lombardi. Playing from 1956 to 1971, he became the model of efficiency and poise, guiding the Packers to five NFL Championships and victories in the first two Super Bowls. Starr was known for his accuracy, decision-making, and command of Lombardi’s precision offense. His performance in big moments was unmatched, earning him the MVP award in both Super Bowl I and II.
In 1966, he also won the NFL MVP after leading one of the league’s most efficient passing attacks. Starr retired as one of the most successful postseason quarterbacks in history, with a record that still stands among the best. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1977, securing his legacy as one of the NFL’s greatest leaders and clutch performers.
Starr's Awards and Honors
- 2× Super Bowl champion (I, II)
- 2× Super Bowl MVP (I, II)
- 5× NFL champion (1961, 1962, 1965–1967)
- First-team All-Pro (1966)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (1961, 1962, 1964)
- 4× Pro Bowl (1960–1962, 1966)
NFL Records
- One of the highest postseason passer ratings in history
- 4× NFL passer rating leader (1964, 1966, 1968, 1969)
- 4× NFL completion percentage leader (1962, 1966, 1968, 1969)
- NFL Most Valuable Player (1966)
- NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
NFL Teams
As Player-
Green Bay Packers (1956–1971)
As Coach-
Green Bay Packers (1975–1983)
As General Manager-
Green Bay Packers (1975–1980)
NFL Draft:
1956: 17th round, 200th overall pick
Green Bay Packers
Number Worn:
15
NFL Stats
Seasons:
16 (1956–1971)
Games Played:
196
Game Started:
157
Passing attempts:
3,149
Passing completions:
1,808
Completion percentage:
57.4%
TD–INT:
152–138
Passing yards:
24,718
Passer rating:
80.5
Benny Friedman
Inducted:
2005
Player Stats
5 ft 10 in (1.78 m)
183 lb (83 kg)
Born:
March 18, 1905
Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.
Died:
November 24, 1982
New York, New York, U.S.
Position:
Quarterback
Coach
Executive
College:
Michigan
Benny Friedman was one of pro football’s earliest stars and among the game's first great passers. Playing in the late 1920s and early 1930s, Friedman brought the forward pass to life in an era dominated by the running game. He played quarterback for teams like the Cleveland Bulldogs, Detroit Wolverines, New York Giants, and Brooklyn Dodgers. His ability to throw with precision and creativity made him revolutionary for his time.
In 1929, he led the league in touchdown passes and even helped the Giants draw record crowds thanks to his exciting play. Friedman wasn’t just an athlete; he later served as a coach and athletic director, further impacting the game. Though he played only eight seasons, his influence on offensive football left a lasting legacy. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2005, long after his playing days but well-deserved for his role in shaping the modern passing game.
Friedman's Awards and Honors
- 4× First-team All-Pro (1927–1930)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1931, 1933)
- 2× Consensus All-American (1925, 1926)
- Chicago Tribune Silver Football (1926)
- 2× First-team All-Big Ten (1925, 1926)
NFL Records
- First player in NFL history to throw 20 touchdown passes in a single season
- Led the NFL in passing touchdowns for four consecutive seasons
- Pioneered the use of the forward pass as a regular offensive weapon in the NFL
- Only quarterback to both pass for and rush for 5+ touchdowns in a season during the 1920s
- One of the earliest QBs to be considered a dual-threat
NFL Teams
Cleveland Bulldogs (1927)
Detroit Wolverines (1928)
New York Giants (1929–1931)
Brooklyn Dodgers (1932–1934)
Number Worn:
6, 21, 1, 26
NFL Stats
Seasons:
8 (1927–1934)
Games Played:
81
TD Passes:
66
Rushing TDs:
18
Passing Yards:
5,326
Head coaching record:
5–9 (.357)
Bert Bell
Inducted:
1963
Player Stats
Born:
February 25, 1895
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Died:
October 11, 1959
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Position:
Team owner / Founder
Coach
NFL Commissioner
College:
NA
Bert Bell was a transformative figure in NFL history, serving as commissioner from 1946 until his death in 1959. Before that, he co-founded the Philadelphia Eagles and later owned the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Bell's tenure as commissioner was marked by significant innovations that shaped the modern NFL. He introduced the NFL Draft in 1936 to promote competitive balance among teams. Under his leadership, the league merged with the All-America Football Conference, expanded its television presence, and implemented policies to combat gambling and corruption.
Bell also recognized the NFL Players Association and established the Pro Bowl.
His contributions were honored with induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963.
Bell's Awards and Records
- Established the NFL Draft to ensure competitive balance
- Merged the NFL with the All-America Football Conference
- Expanded NFL's television presence and introduced night games
- Implemented policies to combat gambling and corruption
- Recognized the NFL Players Association
- Established the Pro Bowl
- Instituted revenue-sharing among teams
- Coined the phrase "On any given Sunday, any team can beat any other team"
NFL Teams
Penn (1920–1928)
Assistant coach
Temple (1930–1932)
Assistant coach
Philadelphia Eagles (1936–1940)
Head coach
Pittsburgh Steelers (1941)
Head coach
Philadelphia Eagles (1933–1935)
Owner
Philadelphia Eagles (1936–1940)
Owner, president & general manager
Pittsburgh Steelers (1940–1946)
Co-owner
NFL Commissioner:
Election, Hapes-Filchock, and the NFL schedule (1946–1948)
AAFC–NFL merger (1948–1950)
Marketing of the NFL (1950–1956)
Compromise with the NFLPA (1956–1957)
Coaching Records
Total Games:
58
Wins:
10
Losses:
46
Ties:
2
Winning Percentage: .
.190
Bill Cowher
Inducted:
2020
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
225 lb (102 kg)
Born:
May 8, 1957
Crafton, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Position:
Linebacker
Coach
College:
NC State
Bill Cowher led the Pittsburgh Steelers with intensity, discipline, and passion for 15 seasons as head coach from 1992 to 2006. Known for his signature chin and sideline fire, Cowher quickly made history by taking the Steelers to the playoffs in each of his first six seasons—tying an NFL record. He guided the team to eight division titles, 10 playoff appearances, and two Super Bowl trips, culminating in a championship win in Super Bowl XL.
A defensive-minded leader, Cowher’s teams were always tough, physical, and consistent contenders. He finished with a stellar 149–90–1 regular-season record and 12 playoff wins. His leadership style earned respect from players, fans, and peers alike. In 2020, he was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, joining the legendary lineage of Steelers coaching excellence. Cowher's legacy endures as one of the most successful and respected coaches of the modern NFL era.
Cowher's Awards and Records
- Super Bowl champion (XL)
- AP NFL Coach of the Year (1992)
- 2× Sporting News NFL Coach of the Year (1992, 2004)
- Best Coach/Manager ESPY Award (2006)
- Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor
- Pittsburgh Pro Football Hall of Fame
- Second-ever coach to take his team to the playoffs in each of his first 6 seasons (1992–1997)
NFL Teams
As a player:
Philadelphia Eagles (1979)
Cleveland Browns (1980–1982)
Philadelphia Eagles (1983–1984)
As a coach:
Cleveland Browns (1985–1986)
Cleveland Browns (1987–1988)
Kansas City Chiefs (1989–1991)
Pittsburgh Steelers (1992–2006)
Number Worn:
53, 57
NFL Stats
As Player
NFL Seasons:
6
Games Played:
45
Games Started:
4
Fumble recoveries:
1
As Coach
Regular season:
149–90–1 (.623)
Postseason:
12–9 (.571)
Career:
161–99–1 (.619)
Bill Dudley
Inducted:
1966
Player Stats
5 ft 10 in (1.78 m)
182 lb (83 kg)
Born:
December 24, 1921
Bluefield, Virginia, U.S.
Died:
February 4, 2010
Lynchburg, Virginia, U.S.
Position:
Halfback
Safety
Return specialist
College:
Virginia (1939–1941)
Bill “Bullet” Dudley was one of the most dynamic and versatile players in NFL history. A triple-threat star who could run, pass, kick, and play defense, Dudley led the league in rushing, interceptions, and punt returns — all in different seasons.
As a rookie with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1942, he led the NFL in rushing yards. After serving in World War II, he returned to dominate again, winning the NFL MVP award in 1946 with the Steelers. Over his nine-year career, he played for Pittsburgh, Detroit, and Washington, amassing over 8,000 all-purpose yards.
Known for his quickness and football IQ, Dudley scored touchdowns in nearly every possible way. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1966 and remains one of the most complete and underrated legends of the league’s early years.
Dudley's Awards and Honors
- 4× First-team All-Pro (1942, 1946–1948)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1951, 1952)
- 2× Pro Bowl (1950, 1951)
- 2× NFL rushing yards leader (1942, 1946)
- NFL Most Valuable Player (1946)
- 2× NFL rushing yards leader (1942, 1946)
- NFL interceptions leader (1946)
- 2× NFL punt return yards leader (1942, 1946)
NFL Records
- Only player in NFL history to lead the league in rushing yards (1942)
- NFL Most Valuable Player (1946, by UPI) after leading the league in interceptions
- One of the NFL’s top all-around players of the 1940s
- Led NFL in total yards (rushing, receiving, returns) three times
NFL Teams
Pittsburgh Steelers (1942; 1945–1946)
Detroit Lions (1947–1949)
Washington Redskins (1950–1951; 1953)
NHL Draft:
1942: 1st round, 1st pick
Pittsburgh Steelers
Number Worn:
3, 35, 44
NFL Stats
Seasons:
9 (1942, 1945–1951)
Games Played:
90
Rushing Yards:
3,057
Rushing TDs:
18
Passing Yards:
1,383
Passing TDs:
13
Receptions:
123
Receiving Yards:
1,383
Total TDs (all types):
44
Interceptions:
23
Punt Return Yards:
929
Kick Return Yards:
1,515
Field Goals Made:
33
Extra Points Made:
121
Bill George
Inducted:
1974
Player Stats
6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
237 lb (108 kg)
Born:
October 27, 1929
Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Died:
September 30, 1982
Rockford, Illinois, U.S.
Position:
Linebacker
Guard
Defensive tackle
College:
Wake Forest (1947–1950)
Bill George revolutionized the game of football as the first true middle linebacker in NFL history. Originally a defensive lineman, he shifted to a stand-up position behind the line to better read plays—creating the linebacker role we recognize today. A fierce tackler and brilliant field general, George played 14 seasons (1952–1965), primarily with the Chicago Bears, finishing his career with the Los Angeles Rams.
He was the heart of the Bears' defense for over a decade, earning respect as a relentless competitor with unmatched football IQ. George was selected to eight straight Pro Bowls and was a key part of the Bears’ 1963 NFL Championship team. His ability to disrupt offenses made him one of the most feared defenders of his era.
George's Awards and Honors
- NFL champion (1963)
- 8× First-team All-Pro (1955–1961, 1963)
- 8× Pro Bowl (1954–1961)
- NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
- Chicago Bears No. 61 retired
- 100 greatest Bears of All-Time
NFL Records
- Credited as the NFL’s first true middle linebacker
- 8 consecutive Pro Bowl selections (1955–1962)
- 8 First-Team All-Pro selections
- NFL 1950s All-Decade Team – recognized as one of the best players of the decade
- Helped lead the Chicago Bears to the 1963 NFL Championship
NFL Teams
Chicago Bears (1952–1965)
Los Angeles Rams (1966)
Bill Hewitt
Inducted:
1971
Player Stats
5 ft 9 in (1.75 m)
190 lb (86 kg)
Born:
October 8, 1909
Bay City, Michigan, U.S.
Died:
January 14, 1947
Sellersville, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Position:
Defensive end
End
College:
Michigan (1929–1931)
Bill Hewitt was one of the NFL’s most dynamic two-way players in the 1930s, known as “The Offside Kid” for his astonishing quickness and instincts. A standout end for both the Chicago Bears and Philadelphia Eagles, he starred on offense and defense, often playing over 50 minutes a game.
Hewitt helped the Bears win the first NFL Championship Game in 1933 and a second in 1932, delivering clutch plays like a lateraled game-winning touchdown in the title match. In 1934, he led the league in receiving touchdowns. Named a first-team All-Pro six times and selected to the NFL’s 1930s All-Decade Team, he was a dominant presence before passing modern recordkeeping.
Honored posthumously with induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1971, Hewitt is remembered as a fearless pioneer whose speed, versatility, and playmaking defined early pro football.
Hewitt's Awards and Honors
- 2× NFL Champion (1932, 1933)
- 6× First-Team All-Pro (1932–1934, 1936–1938)
- NFL Receiving Touchdowns Leader (1934)
- NFL 1930s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- Chicago Bears jersey #56 retired
NFL Records
- Starred in the NFL’s first championship game with a memorable lateral to clinch the title
- Nicknamed “The Offside Kid” for unreal snap reactions that stunned opponents
- Excelled as a dominant two-way player, a rare feat even in his era
- Remembered as a fierce competitor whose play shaped early NFL history
NFL Teams
Chicago Bears (1932–1936)
Philadelphia Eagles (1937–1939)
Steagles (1943)
Number Worn:
56, 82
NFL Stats
Seasons:
9 (1932–1943)
Games Played:
101
Starts:
89
Receptions:
103
Receiving Yards:
1,638
Receiving Touchdowns:
24
Bill Nunn
Inducted:
2021
Player Stats
Born:
September 30, 1924
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Died:
May 6, 2014
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Position:
Scout
College:
West Virginia State College
Bill Nunn was a trailblazing scout whose eye for hidden talent helped build one of the NFL’s greatest dynasties — the 1970s Pittsburgh Steelers. Before joining the team, Nunn was a respected journalist and editor at the Pittsburgh Courier, where he highlighted the overlooked talent from historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). His deep knowledge and relationships within that community became invaluable when he joined the Steelers in 1968.
Nunn’s scouting helped Pittsburgh draft and sign future Hall of Famers like Mel Blount, John Stallworth, Donnie Shell, and L.C. Greenwood, who became key pieces of the Steel Curtain defense and four-time Super Bowl champions. His pioneering work not only reshaped the Steelers but also opened doors for countless Black athletes in professional football.
A humble visionary with a lasting legacy in both journalism and scouting, Bill Nunn was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2021, honored as a true architect of champions.
Nunn's Awards and Records
- 6× First-team All-Pro (1951–1954, 1957, 1959)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (1960–1962)
- 10× Pro Bowl (1950–1953, 1956–1961)
- NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
- NFL 50th Anniversary All-Time Team
- San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame
- San Francisco 49ers No. 73 retired
Notable Achievement
- Played both offense and defense at an elite level
- Never missed a game in 14 seasons
- One of the most durable and versatile linemen in NFL history
NFL Teams
As Assistant Personnel Director-
Pittsburgh Steelers (1970–1987)
As Scout-
Pittsburgh Steelers (1987–2014)
NFL Stats
Career:
1968–2014 (Pittsburgh Steelers)
Role:
Scout and Assistant Director of Player Personnel
Teams Built:
6 Super Bowl Championship Rosters
Bill Parcells
Inducted:
2013
Player Stats
Born:
August 22, 1941
Englewood, New Jersey, U.S.
Position:
Coach
College:
Wichita State (1960–1963)
Bill Parcells was one of the most influential and successful head coaches in NFL history, known for his leadership, discipline, and ability to rebuild struggling franchises into contenders. Over a coaching career spanning nearly two decades, Parcells led the New York Giants, New England Patriots, New York Jets, and Dallas Cowboys, leaving a lasting impact on each organization. With the Giants, he captured two Super Bowl titles (XXI, XXV), building dominant, defense-driven teams led by players like Lawrence Taylor.
Parcells was twice named NFL Coach of the Year and became known as “The Big Tuna” for his larger-than-life presence and no-nonsense approach. His coaching tree produced several future head coaches, including Bill Belichick and Sean Payton, extending his influence across generations. Bill Parcells was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2013, cementing his legacy as a master motivator, strategist, and program builder who reshaped modern football culture.
Parcells's Awards and Honors
- 2× Super Bowl champion (XXI, XXV)
- 2× AP NFL Coach of Year (1986, 1994)
- The Sporting News NFL Coach of Year (1986)
- 2× Pro Football Weekly NFL Coach of Year (1986, 1994)
- Greasy Neale Award (1994)
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
NFL Records
- First coach to lead four different teams to the playoffs
- Mentored several future Super Bowl–winning coaches
- Renowned for rebuilding struggling franchises into contenders
NFL Teams
New York Giants (1983–1990)
New England Patriots (1993–1996)
New York Jets (1997–1999)
Dallas Cowboys (2003–2006)
NFL Draft:
1964: 7th round, 89th overall pick
Detroit Lions
NFL Stats
Coaching Seasons:
19 (1983–2006)
Game:
303
Win:
172
Lose:
130
Tie:
1
Win(%):
.569
Playoff Record:
11–8 (.578)
Super Bowl Titles:
2 (XXI, XXV)
Bill Polian
Inducted:
2015
Player Stats
Born:
December 8, 1942
The Bronx, New York, U.S.
Position:
General Manager
Team President
College:
NYU
Bill Polian is one of the most accomplished executives in NFL history, renowned for building multiple championship-caliber teams and shaping the modern front office model. Over his long career, Polian served as general manager for the Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, and Indianapolis Colts, constructing rosters that consistently competed at the highest level. He built the Bills team that appeared in four consecutive Super Bowls (1990–1993), helped guide the Panthers to the NFC Championship in just their second season, and later assembled the Colts powerhouse led by Peyton Manning, which captured Super Bowl XLI.
Known for his sharp talent evaluation and ability to build balanced, sustainable rosters, Polian’s vision and leadership influenced a generation of NFL executives. A six-time Executive of the Year, his legacy extends beyond wins — he was a key architect of excellence and innovation. Bill Polian was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2015, honoring his transformative impact on the league.
Polian's Awards and Records
- Super Bowl champion (XLI)
- Grey Cup champion (1984)
- 6× NFL Executive of the Year (1988, 1991, 1995, 1996, 1999, 2009)
- Indianapolis Colts Ring of Honor
- Buffalo Bills Wall of Fame
Notable Achievements
- Built Super Bowl–caliber teams for three franchises
- Key architect of Peyton Manning–era Colts
- Set standard for modern NFL team management
NFL Teams
As General Manager-
Buffalo Bills (1986–1992)
Carolina Panthers (1995–1997)
As General Manager and Team President-
Indianapolis Colts (1998–2011)
NFL Stats
NFL Executive Tenure:
1986–2011
Super Bowl Appearances:
5
Super Bowl Titles:
1 (XLI)
Bill Walsh
Inducted:
1993
Stats
Born:
November 30, 1931
Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Died:
July 30, 2007
Woodside, California, U.S.
Position:
Coach
College:
San Jose State
Bill Walsh is regarded as one of the most innovative coaches in NFL history and the architect of the famed West Coast offense. Taking over the San Francisco 49ers in 1979, he transformed a struggling franchise into a dynasty built on precision passing, timing, and disciplined execution. Walsh’s system reshaped modern offensive football and produced three Super Bowl championships in the 1980s. His ability to develop quarterbacks, most notably Joe Montana and Steve Young, became a hallmark of his coaching legacy.
Walsh emphasized preparation, communication, and player development, building one of the league’s strongest organizational cultures. Beyond his on-field success, he created a coaching tree that influenced generations of NFL leaders. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993, Walsh remains a foundational figure in the evolution of offensive strategy and one of the most respected minds the sport has ever known.
Walsh's Awards and Records
- 3× Super Bowl champion (XVI, XIX, XXIII)
- AP NFL Coach of the Year (1981)
- 2× 101 Awards NFC Coach of the Year (1981, 1984)
- 2× UPI NFC Coach of the Year (1981, 1984)
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
Notable Achievements
- Architect of the West Coast offense, one of football’s most influential systems
- Built and led the 49ers dynasty of the 1980s
- Produced one of the largest and most successful coaching trees in NFL history
NFL Teams
As a coach:
San Francisco 49ers (1979–1988)
As executive:
San Francisco 49ers (1999–2004)
NFL Stats
Game Coached:
152
Win:
92
Lose:
59
Tie:
1
Win(%):
.609
Playoff Record:
10–4
Super Bowl Championships:
3 (XVI, XIX, XXIII)
Bill Willis
Inducted:
1977
Player Stats
6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
213 lb (97 kg)
Born:
October 5, 1921
Columbus, Ohio, U.S.
Died:
November 27, 2007
Columbus, Ohio, U.S.
Position:
Middle guard
Guard
College:
Ohio State (1942–1944)
Bill Willis was one of the most influential defensive linemen in football history and a key figure in breaking racial barriers in professional sports. Joining the Cleveland Browns in 1946, he became one of the first African American players of the modern pro era. Willis revolutionized the middle guard position with his unmatched quickness, powerful hands, and ability to penetrate gaps before blockers could react. His speed and technique helped the Browns dominate both the AAFC and the NFL, contributing to multiple championships.
Willis was known for his discipline, quiet leadership, and relentless play, earning respect from teammates and opponents across the league. His presence helped reshape defensive schemes and set new standards for interior line play. In recognition of his historic impact and outstanding performance, Bill Willis was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1977.
Willis' Awards and Honors
- 4× AAFC champion (1946–1949)
- 6× First-team All-Pro (1947, 1948, 1950–1953)
- First-team All-AAFC (1946)
- Second-team All-Pro (1949)
- 3× Pro Bowl (1950–1952)
- National champion (1942)
- One of the first African American players in modern pro football
NFL Records
- NFL champion (1950)
- NFL 1940s All-Decade Team
- NFL 1940s All-Decade Team
NFL Teams
Cleveland Browns (1946–1953)
Billy Shaw
Inducted:
1999
Player Stats
6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
258 lb (117 kg)
Born:
December 15, 1938
Natchez, Mississippi, U.S.
Died:
October 4, 2024
Toccoa, Georgia, U.S.
Position:
Guard
College:
Georgia Tech
Billy Shaw was one of the most dominant offensive guards of the 1960s and a cornerstone of the Buffalo Bills teams that won back-to-back AFL Championships. Drafted in 1961, Shaw played his entire career in Buffalo, becoming known for his power, mobility, and exceptional technique. He excelled in both run blocking and pass protection, helping build one of the league’s most physical offensive lines.
Shaw earned eight consecutive AFL All-Star selections and five First-Team All-AFL honors, standing out as one of the league’s most respected linemen. His leadership and consistency were crucial during Buffalo’s championship seasons in 1964 and 1965. Shaw made history by becoming the first—and still only—player inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame who never played a down in the NFL, receiving the honor in 1999.
His legacy remains a benchmark for excellence in offensive line play and a key part of the AFL’s historic identity.
Shaw's Awards and Records
- 2× AFL champion (1964, 1965)
- 7× All-AFL (1962–1966, 1968, 1969)
- 8× AFL All-Star (1962–1969)
- AFL All-Time Team
- Buffalo Bills 50th Anniversary Team
Notable Achievements
- Only Pro Football Hall of Famer who never played an NFL game
- Key blocker for one of the AFL’s strongest rushing attacks
- Leader of back-to-back championship offensive lines
Career Teams
Buffalo Bills (1961–1969)
NFL Draft:
1961: 14th round, 184th overall pick
Buffalo Bills
Number Worn:
66
NFL Stats
Seasons:
9 (1961–1969)
Games Played:
119
Games Started:
116
Fumble recoveries:
5
Bob Brown
Inducted:
2004
Player Stats
6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)
280 lb (127 kg)
Born:
December 8, 1941
Cleveland, Ohio, U.S
Died:
June 16, 2023
Oakland, California, U.S.
Position:
Offensive tackle
College:
Nebraska (1961–1963)
Bob "Boomer" Brown was a force on the offensive line during his 10-year NFL career. Drafted second overall by the Philadelphia Eagles in 1964, he quickly established himself as a premier offensive tackle.
Known for his aggressive playing style, Brown earned six Pro Bowl selections and was named First-Team All-Pro five times. He played for the Eagles (1964–1968), Los Angeles Rams (1969–1970), and Oakland Raiders (1971–1973), making a significant impact at each stop. Brown's dominance was recognized with his inclusion in the NFL 1960s All-Decade Team.
After retiring due to knee injuries, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2004 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 1993.
Brown passed away in 2023 at the age of 81, leaving behind a legacy as one of the game's greatest linemen.
Brown's Awards and Honors
- 5× First-team All-Pro (1965, 1966, 1968–1970)
- 4× Second-team All-Pro (1964, 1967, 1971, 1972)
- 6× Pro Bowl (1965, 1966, 1968–1971)
- NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
- Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame
- Unanimous All-American (1963)
- 2× First-team All-Big Eight (1963, 1964)
- Nebraska Cornhuskers No. 64 retired
NFL Teams
Philadelphia Eagles (1964–1968)
Los Angeles Rams (1969–1970)
Oakland Raiders (1971–1973)
NFL draft:
1964: 1st round, 2nd pick
Philadelphia Eagles
Numbers Worn:
76
NFL Stats:
Seasons Played
10
Games Played:
126
Games Started:
124
Fumble Recoveries:
2
Sports Fan Products
NFL Hall of Fame
The NFL Hall of Fame, also known as the Pro Football Hall of Fame, is where the legacies of NFL legends and their contributions to football history are celebrated. Located in Canton, Ohio, this iconic institution honors the greatest players, coaches, and contributors through its annual Hall of Fame enshrinement and NFL Hall of Fame ceremony. From the NFL Hall of Fame Class of 2025 and its nominees to the unforgettable Hall of Fame speeches, each year brings new highlights and moments that capture the spirit of the game. Featuring Hall of Fame players, coaches, and even legendary quarterbacks, the Hall showcases the rich history of football with exhibits, stories of remarkable careers, and events like the NFL Hall of Fame game. A visit to the Hall is a journey through the most iconic NFL greats, their achievements, and the unforgettable Hall of Fame moments that define the sport we love. 🏈✨
