Search By First Name of HOFers
Roger Craig
Inducted:
2026
Player Stats
6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
222 lb (101 kg)
Born:
July 10, 1960
Preston, Mississippi, U.S.
Position:
Running back
Fullback
College:
Nebraska (1979–1982)
Roger Craig is one of the most versatile and influential running backs in NFL history, serving as a dual-threat focal point in head coach Bill Walsh’s "West Coast" offense during the San Francisco 49ers' 1980s dynasty. Selected in the second round of the 1983 NFL Draft out of Nebraska, Craig spent 11 seasons in the league with the 49ers (1983–1990), Los Angeles Raiders (1991), and Minnesota Vikings (1992–1993).
Renowned for his high-knee running style and elite pass-catching ability, Craig made history in 1985 as the first player in NFL history to record 1,000 rushing yards and 1,000 receiving yards in the same season. A four-time Pro Bowler, 1988 AP NFL Offensive Player of the Year, and three-time Super Bowl champion, he was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2026.
Craig's Awards and Honors
- 3× Super Bowl champion (XIX, XXIII, XXIV)
- First-team All-Pro (1988)
- Second-team All-Pro (1985)
- 4× Pro Bowl (1985, 1987–1989)
- Jim Thorpe Trophy (1988)
- San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame
NFL Records
- NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1988)
- NFL receptions leader (1985)
- NFL rushing touchdowns leader (1988)
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
- First NFL player with 1,000 rushing and 1,000 receiving yards in one season
NFL Teams
San Francisco 49ers (1983–1990)
Los Angeles Raiders (1991)
Minnesota Vikings (1992–1993)
NFL Draft:
1983 (2nd round, 49th overall pick)
San Francisco 49ers
Number Worn:
33, 22
NFL Stats
NFL Career:
1983–1993
Games played:
165
Games started:
133
Rushing yards:
8,189
Rushing average:
4.1
Receptions:
566
Receiving yards:
4,911
Total Yards from Scrimmage:
13,100
Total touchdowns:
73
Pro Bowl Selections:
4
Roger Staubach
Inducted:
1985
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
197 lb (89 kg)
Born:
February 5, 1942
Cincinnati, Ohio, U.S.
Position:
Quarterback
College:
NMMI (1960)
Navy (1961–1964)
Roger Staubach became one of the most iconic quarterbacks in NFL history, leading the Dallas Cowboys with poise, mobility, and clutch play. After winning the Heisman Trophy at Navy, he fulfilled his military service before joining the Cowboys in 1969. Staubach’s combination of accuracy, scrambling ability, and calm leadership helped shape Dallas into “America’s Team.” He guided the Cowboys to two Super Bowl victories and four NFC championships, earning Super Bowl VI MVP honors.
Known for late-game comebacks, he made the term “Hail Mary” famous with his dramatic 1975 playoff touchdown pass. Staubach was selected to six Pro Bowls and consistently displayed a strong sense of discipline and competitiveness. After retiring in 1979, he remained one of the most respected figures in the sport. Roger Staubach was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1985, sealing his place among the greatest quarterbacks ever.
Staubach's Awards and Honors
- 2× Super Bowl champion (VI, XII)
- Super Bowl MVP (VI)
- Second-team All-Pro (1971)
- 6× Pro Bowl (1971, 1975–1979)
- 4× NFL passer rating leader (1971, 1973, 1978, 1979)
NFL Records
- NFL Man of the Year (1978)
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL passing touchdowns leader (1973)
- One of the NFL’s top fourth-quarter comeback quarterbacks
NFL Teams
Dallas Cowboys (1969–1979)
NFL Draft:
1964: 10th round, 129th overall pick
Dallas Cowboys
Number Worn:
12
NFL Stats
Seasons:
11 (1969-1979)
Games Played:
131
Game Started:
114
Passing attempts:
2,958
Passing completions:
1,685
Completion percentage:
57.0%
TD–INT:
153–109
Passing yards:
22,700
Passer rating:
83.4
Rushing yards:
2,264
Rushing touchdowns:
20
Roger Wehrli
Inducted:
2007
Player Stats
6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
190 lb (86 kg)
Born:
November 26, 1947
New Point, Missouri, U.S.
Position:
Cornerback
College:
Missouri (1966–1968)
Roger Wehrli became one of the premier cornerbacks of his era, standing out for his speed, technique, and instincts during his long career with the St. Louis Cardinals. Drafted in 1969, he quickly earned a reputation as a shutdown defender capable of neutralizing top receivers. Wehrli’s sharp anticipation and smooth coverage skills made him a consistent playmaker, finishing his career with more than 40 interceptions. His versatility allowed him to excel in both man and zone schemes, and he remained a steady force in a changing league.
Wehrli’s leadership and reliability helped anchor the Cardinals’ secondary for over a decade, earning widespread respect from opponents and coaches alike. His contributions were later honored with induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2007, recognizing a career defined by elite coverage ability, disciplined play, and lasting impact on defensive back standards across the league.
Wehrli's Awards and Honors
- 5× First-team All-Pro (1970, 1974–1977)
- Second-team All-Pro (1971)
- 7× Pro Bowl (1970, 1971, 1974–1977, 1979)
- Arizona Cardinals Ring of Honor
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
Notable Achievements
- One of the first modern cornerbacks known for combining speed with advanced coverage technique
- Led team in interceptions multiple seasons
- Recognized league-wide as one of the toughest corners to throw against
NFL Teams
St. Louis Cardinals (1969–1982)
NFL Draft:
1969: 1st round, 19th overall pick
St. Louis Cardinals
Number Worn:
22
NFL Stats
Seasons:
14 (1969–1982)
Games Played:
193
Game Started:
175
Interceptions:
40
Interception yards:
309
Fumble recoveries:
22
Sacks:
1
Defensive touchdowns:
2
Ron Mix
Inducted:
1979
Player Stats
6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)
250 lb (113 kg)
Born:
March 10, 1938
Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Position:
Offensive tackle
College:
USC (1956–1959)
Ron Mix was one of the premier offensive tackles in professional football history, renowned for his intelligence, discipline, and technical mastery. Nicknamed the “Intellectual Assassin,” Mix combined physical power with precise footwork and balance to dominate opposing defenders throughout his career. Playing primarily for the Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers from 1960 to 1969, he became a cornerstone of their offensive line and a key protector of legendary quarterback Lance Alworth.
Mix was instrumental in the Chargers’ success during the AFL era, including their AFL Championship in 1963, and earned widespread respect for his clean yet powerful play. He was one of the most penalized-free linemen of his time, showcasing remarkable composure and skill. After briefly playing for the Oakland Raiders, Mix retired as one of the most respected figures in football.
Ron Mix was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1979, honoring his excellence and contributions as a true pioneer of offensive line play.
Mix's Awards and Honors
- AFL champion (1963)
- 9× All-AFL (1960–1968)
- 8× AFL All-Star (1961–1968)
- AFL All-Time Team
- Los Angeles Chargers Hall of Fame
- First-team All-PCC (1959)
NFL Records
- Known for incredible technique and discipline — only two penalties in 10 seasons
- One of the first great pass-protecting tackles
- Key leader on the dominant 1960s Chargers teams
NFL Teams
Los Angeles / San Diego Chargers (1960–1969)
Oakland Raiders (1971)
NFL Draft:
1960: 1st round, 10th overall pick
Baltimore Colts
Number Worn:
74, 77
NFL Stats
Seasons:
11 (1960–1971)
Games played:
142
Games started:
130
Ron Wolf
Inducted:
2015
GM Stats
Born:
December 30, 1938
New Freedom, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Position:
General Manager
College:
Maryville
Ron Wolf was one of the most influential executives in NFL history, shaping modern team-building strategies and turning franchises into championship contenders. Serving as general manager of the Green Bay Packers from 1991 to 2001, Wolf revitalized the team by making bold personnel decisions, including drafting key players, signing impactful free agents, and hiring transformative coaches. His keen eye for talent and innovative approach helped the Packers end a long playoff drought and ultimately win Super Bowl XXXI.
Wolf’s philosophy of combining scouting, analytics, and smart drafting set new standards for NFL front offices. Even beyond Green Bay, his mentorship and insights influenced executives league-wide. Recognized for his vision, integrity, and lasting impact on the game, Ron Wolf was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2015, honoring a career that reshaped how NFL teams build and sustain success.
Wolf's Awards and Honors
- 3× Super Bowl champion (XV, XVIII, XXXI)
- Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame
- Super Bowl XXXI Champion (as GM)
- NFL Executive of the Year (1992)
- Signed one of the most impactful free agents in NFL history
- Set new standards for combining draft, free agency, and coaching hires
NFL Teams
As General Manager-
Green Bay Packers (1991–2000)
NFL Acheivements
NFL Executive Tenure:
1991–2000
Super Bowl championships:
1 (Super Bowl XXXI)
Playoff appearances under tenure:
7
Tenure in NFL executive roles:
40+ years
Ron Yary
Inducted:
2001
Player Stats
6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)
255 lb (116 kg)
Born:
July 16, 1946
Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
Position:
Offensive tackle
College:
USC (1965–1967)
Ron Yary was one of the most reliable and technically sound offensive tackles in NFL history, anchoring the Minnesota Vikings’ line for more than a decade. Selected first overall in the 1968 NFL Draft, he became the foundation of a unit that powered the Vikings to four Super Bowl appearances and multiple division titles. Yary’s strength, balance, and ability to control elite pass rushers made him one of the most respected linemen of his era.
His consistency in both run blocking and pass protection helped Minnesota field some of the league’s most physical and disciplined offenses throughout the 1970s. Known for durability and leadership, he missed very few games during his 14 seasons with the Vikings. Ron Yary’s excellence on the field earned him induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2001, honoring a career defined by dominance, longevity, and championship-level performance.
Yary's Awards and Honors
- National champion (1967)
- 6× First-team All-Pro (1971–1976)
- Second-team All-Pro (1977)
- 7× Pro Bowl (1971–1977)
NFL Records
- NFL champion (1969)
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
- First offensive lineman selected No. 1 overall in the NFL Draft
NFL Teams
Minnesota Vikings (1968–1981)
Los Angeles Rams (1982)
NFL Draft:
1968: 1st round, 1st overall pick
Minnesota Vikings
Number Worn:
73
NFL Stats
Seasons:
15 (1968–1982)
Games Played:
207
Games Started:
180
Fumble recoveries:
2
Receiving Yards:
5
Reception:
1
Yards per reception:
5
Ronde Barber
Inducted:
2023
Player Stats
Stats:
5 ft 10 in (1.78 m)
184 lb (83 kg)
Born:
April 7, 1975
Roanoke, Virginia, U.S.
Position:
Cornerback / Safety
College:
Virginia (1993–1996)
Ronde Barber carved out one of the most impressive careers in NFL history as a cornerback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Drafted in 1997, Barber spent all 16 seasons with the Bucs and became known for his intelligence, toughness, and versatility. A key piece of the legendary Tampa 2 defense, he played a hybrid role—covering receivers, blitzing quarterbacks, and stopping the run.
His career was marked by consistency and durability, starting 215 consecutive games—an NFL record for cornerbacks. Barber finished his career with over 1,200 tackles, 47 interceptions, and 28 sacks, making him the only player in league history with 45+ INTs and 25+ sacks. He played a vital role in Tampa Bay’s Super Bowl XXXVII win and delivered one of the franchise’s most iconic moments: a 92-yard pick-six in the 2002 NFC Championship Game.
He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2023, a testament to his all-around excellence.
Barber's Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (XXXVII)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (2001, 2004, 2005)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (2002, 2006)
- 5× Pro Bowl (2001, 2004–2006, 2008)
- NFL interceptions co-leader (2001)
- NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers Ring of Honor
- 2× Third-team All-American (1994, 1996)
- ACC Rookie of the Year (1994)
- 3× First-team All-ACC (1994–1996)
- Virginia Cavaliers Jersey No. 19 retired
NFL Records
- Only player in NFL history with 45+ INTs and 25+ sacks
- Most consecutive starts by a cornerback (215)
- Most games played by a Tampa Bay Buccaneer (241)
- Only defensive back in NFL history with 14+ total return touchdowns
- First cornerback in NFL to record 20 sacks and 20 interceptions
NFL Teams
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1997–2012)
Numbers Worn:
20
NFL draft:
1997: 3rd round, 66th pick
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NFL Stats
Seasons:
16 (1997–2012)
Games Played:
241
Total tackles:
1,251
Sacks:
28.0
Forced fumbles:
15
Fumble recoveries:
12
Passes defended:
197
Interceptions:
47
Total touchdowns:
14
Ronnie Lott
Inducted:
2000
Player Stats
6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
Weight 203 lb
Born:
May 8, 1959
Albuquerque, New Mexico, U.S.
Position:
Cornerback
Safety
College:
USC (1977–1980)
Ronnie Lott was one of the fiercest, most complete defensive players in NFL history, known for his versatility, intelligence, and punishing style of play. Drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the first round of the 1981 NFL Draft, Lott immediately became the backbone of a defense that powered four Super Bowl championships during the 1980s. Initially a cornerback, he later transitioned to safety, excelling at both positions with the same dominance and fearlessness.
Renowned for his ability to read offenses and deliver game-changing hits, Lott combined physical toughness with unmatched leadership. His influence extended beyond statistics — he set the standard for commitment, famously having part of his finger amputated to stay on the field. Lott later played for the Raiders and Jets, maintaining elite performance throughout his career.
A 10-time Pro Bowler and true defensive icon, Ronnie Lott was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000, immortalizing his legacy as one of football’s toughest competitors.
Lott's Awards and Honors
- 4× Super Bowl champion (XVI, XIX, XXIII, XXIV)
- 8× First-team All-Pro (1981, 1983, 1986–1991)
- 10× Pro Bowl (1981–1984, 1986–1991)
- 2× NFL interceptions leader (1986, 1991)
- NFL combined tackles leader (1982)
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
NFL Records
- First player to earn All-Pro honors at cornerback, free safety, and strong safety
- One of the hardest hitters in NFL history
- Key leader of 49ers dynasty defenses
NFL Teams
San Francisco 49ers (1981–1990)
Los Angeles Raiders (1991–1992)
New York Jets (1993–1994)
Kansas City Chiefs (1995)
NFL Draft:
1981: 1st round, 8th overall pick
San Francisco 49ers
Number Worn:
42
NFL Stats
Seasons:
14 (1981–1994)
Games Played:
192
Game Started:
189
Tackles:
1,146
Interceptions:
63
Int. return yards:
730
Forced fumbles:
16
Fumble recoveries:
17
Touchdowns:
5
Rosey Brown
Inducted:
1975
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
255 lb (116 kg)
Born:
October 20, 1932
Charlottesville, Virginia, U.S.
Died:
June 9, 2004
Columbus, New Jersey, U.S.
Position:
Offensive tackle
College:
Morgan State (1951–1952)
Roosevelt "Rosey" Brown was a cornerstone of the New York Giants' offensive line from 1953 to 1965.
Drafted in the 27th round from Morgan State, he quickly became a starting left tackle, known for his exceptional blocking and agility.
Brown's prowess contributed to the Giants' six division titles and the 1956 NFL Championship. He earned six First-Team All-Pro selections and nine Pro Bowl appearances, reflecting his dominance on the field.
Brown's impact extended beyond his playing years, as he served as a coach and scout for the Giants, dedicating over 50 years to the organization.
His legacy was cemented with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1975, and he was honored on both the NFL's 75th and 100th Anniversary All-Time Teams.
Brown's Awards and Honors
- NFL champion (1956)
- 6× First-team All-Pro (1956–1959, 1961, 1962)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (1960, 1963, 1965)
- 9× Pro Bowl (1955–1960, 1962, 1964, 1965)
- NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
- NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- New York Giants Ring of Honor
NFL Teams
New York Giants (1953–1965)
NFL draft:
1953: 27th round, 321st pick
New York Giants
Numbers Worn:
79
NFL Stats
Games Played:
162
Games Started:
159
Fumble Recoveries:
5
Kickoff Returns:
5 for 32 yards
Russ Grimm
Inducted:
2010
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
275 lb (125 kg)
Born:
May 2, 1959
Scottdale, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Position:
Guard
College:
Pittsburgh
Russ Grimm was a dominant offensive guard known for his power, toughness, and technical skill. As a key member of the Washington Redskins’ famed "Hogs" offensive line from 1981 to 1991, Grimm helped create one of the NFL’s most feared rushing attacks. His blocking paved the way for multiple Super Bowl victories and established the Redskins as a powerhouse in the 1980s.
Grimm’s durability and intelligence on the field earned him nine Pro Bowl selections and five First-Team All-Pro honors. After retiring, he transitioned to coaching, continuing his impact on the game. Grimm was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010, recognized for both his individual excellence and his role in one of the NFL’s best offensive lines.
Grimm's Awards and Honors
- 3× Super Bowl champion (XVII, XXII, XXVI)
- 4× First-team All-Pro (1983–1986)
- 4× Pro Bowl (1983–1986)
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
- 80 Greatest Redskins
- Second-team All-East (1980)
- Super Bowl champion (XL)
NFL Records
- Selected to 9 Pro Bowls, one of the highest totals for a guard in NFL history
- Key contributor to Washington’s three Super Bowl victories
- One of the most dominant lines in NFL history
- Known for powerful run blocking
NFL Teams
As a player:
Washington Redskins (1981–1991)
As a coach:
Washington Redskins (1992–1996)
Washington Redskins (1997–2000)
Pittsburgh Steelers (2001–2006)
Arizona Cardinals (2007–2012)
Tennessee Titans (2016–2017)
NFL draft:
1981: 3rd round, 69th pick
Washington Redskins
Number Worn:
68
NFL Stats
Seasons:
1981–1991
Games Played:
140
Games Started:
114
Fumble recoveries:
7
Pro Bowls:
9
Super Bowl Titles:
3 (XVII, XXII, XXVI)
Sam Huff
Inducted:
1982
Player Stats
6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
230 lb (104 kg)
Born:
October 4, 1934
Edna, West Virginia, U.S.
Died:
November 13, 2021
Winchester, Virginia, U.S.
Position:
Linebacker
College:
West Virginia (1952–1955)
Sam Huff, was one of the NFL’s most formidable linebackers. Playing primarily for the New York Giants from 1956 to 1964 and briefly for the Washington Redskins, Huff was known for his physicality, intelligence, and ability to read offenses. He became the centerpiece of the Giants’ defense, helping them reach the NFL Championship Game multiple times and famously dominating in the 1958 “Greatest Game Ever Played” against the Baltimore Colts.
Huff earned six Pro Bowl selections and three First-Team All-Pro honors, pioneering the middle linebacker position and defining modern defensive schemes. Over his career, he recorded numerous interceptions and fumble recoveries, while his leadership inspired teammates and intimidated opponents. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1982, Huff left a lasting legacy as one of the first linebackers to achieve superstar status, shaping the role for generations of defensive players to come.
Huff's Awards and Honors
- 6× Pro Bowl selection
- 3× First-Team All-Pro
- Key player in 1958 NFL Championship Game (“The Greatest Game Ever Played”)
- Pioneered the middle linebacker role
NFL Records
- First middle linebacker to achieve superstar status
- Defined defensive schemes with intelligence and leadership
- Integral part of Giants’ championship-contending teams in the late 1950s
- Inspired generations of linebackers with physicality and field awareness
NFL Teams
As a player:
New York Giants (1956–1963)
Washington Redskins (1964–1967, 1969)
As Coach:
Washington Redskins (1969-1970)
NHL Draft:
1956: 3rd round, 30th overall
New York Giants
Number Worn:
70
NFL Stats
NFL Seasons:
1956–1969
Games Played:
168
Interceptions:
30
Interception Yards:
381
Touchdowns:
5
Fumble recoveries:
17
Pro Bowls:
6
First-Team All-Pro:
3
Sam Mills
Inducted:
2022
Sam Mills was the heart and soul of every team he played for — a symbol of perseverance, leadership, and excellence. Undersized for a linebacker at 5'9", Mills defied every doubt with unmatched intelligence, tackling ability, and heart. After starring in the USFL, he joined the New Orleans Saints in 1986, becoming the leader of the feared “Dome Patrol” defense — one of the best linebacker units in NFL history.
Later, with the Carolina Panthers, Mills became the emotional and defensive cornerstone of the young franchise, inspiring teammates through his work ethic and resilience. Even after his playing career, he continued to influence the game as a coach, delivering the unforgettable motto, “Keep Pounding,” while battling cancer.
His legacy endures as a testament to determination and character beyond the field. Sam Mills was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2022, forever honored as one of football’s most inspiring figures.
Mills' Awards and Honors
- 3× First-team All-Pro (1991, 1992, 1996)
- 5× Pro Bowl (1987, 1988, 1991, 1992, 1996)
- George Halas Award (2004)
- Carolina Panthers Hall of Honor
- Carolina Panthers No. 51 retired
NFL Records
- Leader of the Saints’ “Dome Patrol” defense
- Coined “Keep Pounding” — Carolina’s lasting team mantra
- Overcame size doubts to become an elite NFL linebacker
NFL Teams
As Player-
Cleveland Browns (1981)
Toronto Argonauts (1982)
Philadelphia / Baltimore Stars (1983–1985)
New Orleans Saints (1986–1994)
Carolina Panthers (1995–1997)
As Coach-
Carolina Panthers (1998–2004)
Sammy Baugh
Inducted:
1963
Player Stats
Stats:
6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
182 lb (83 kg)
Born:
March 17, 1914
Temple, Texas, U.S.
Died:
December 17, 2008
Rotan, Texas, U.S.
Position:
Quarterback-Defensive back-Punter
College:
TCU (1934–1936)
Sammy Baugh, known as “Slingin’ Sammy,” revolutionized the quarterback position during his 16-season NFL career with the Washington Redskins (1937–1952).
A versatile athlete, Baugh excelled as a quarterback, punter, and defensive back, setting multiple records that stood for decades. He led the league in passing yards four times and in completion percentage seven times.
In 1943, he achieved the remarkable feat of leading the NFL in passing, punting, and interceptions in the same season.
Baugh’s impact on the game was profound, and he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963.
Baugh's Awards and Honors
- Washington Commanders 90 Greatest
- Washington Commanders Ring of Fame
- Washington Commanders No. 33 retired
- CFB national champion (1935)
- TCU Horned Frogs No. 45 retired
- Consensus All-American (1936)
- First-team All-American (1935)
- 2× first-team All-SWC (1935, 1936)
NFL Records
- 2× NFL champion (1937, 1942)
- 4× first-team All-Pro (1937, 1940, 1942, 1943)
- 4× second-team All-Pro (1938, 1941, 1947, 1948)
- 6× Pro Bowl (1938–1942, 1951)
- 4× NFL passing yards leader (1937, 1940, 1947, 1948)
- 2× NFL passing touchdowns leader (1940, 1947)
- 3× NFL passer rating leader (1940, 1945, 1947)
- 8× NFL completion percentage leader (1940, 1942, 1943, 1945–1949)
- NFL interceptions leader (1943)
- NFL punting yards leader (1943)
- NFL 1940s All-Decade Team
- NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
NFL Teams
Washington Redskins (1937–1952)
Numbers Worn:
33
NFL Draft:
1937: 1st round, 6th pick
Washington Redskins
NFL Stats
Seasons:
16
Games Played:
165
Passing attempts:
2,995
Passing completions:
1,693
Completion percentage:
56.5%
TD–INT:
187–203
Passing yards:
21,886
Passer rating:
72.2
Punting yards:
15,245
Punting average:
45.1
Interceptions made:
31
Shannon Sharpe
Inducted:
2011
Player Stats
6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
228 lb (103 kg)
Born:
June 26, 1968
Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
Position:
Tight End
College:
Savannah State (1986–1989)
Shannon Sharpe became one of the most impactful tight ends in NFL history, redefining the position with his speed, strength, and ability to create mismatches. Drafted by the Denver Broncos in 1990, he quickly grew into a primary offensive weapon and a trusted target for John Elway. Sharpe played a major role in Denver’s back-to-back Super Bowl championships in the late 1990s and added a third ring with the Baltimore Ravens in 2000.
His combination of big-play ability and consistency helped elevate the tight end position into a modern offensive force. By the time he retired, Sharpe held NFL records for receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns by a tight end. His leadership, durability, and postseason performances strengthened his legacy as one of the game’s greats. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2011.
Sharpe's Awards and Honors
- 3× Super Bowl champion (XXXII, XXXIII, XXXV)
- 4× First-team All-Pro (1993, 1996–1998)
- Second-team All-Pro (1995)
- 8× Pro Bowl (1992–1998, 2001)
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
NFL Records
- Most receiving yards by a tight end in a game: 214
- Longest touchdown reception in a postseason game: 96 yards
- First tight end in NFL history to surpass 10,000 receiving yards
- Recorded a 214-yard playoff game, one of the highest ever by a tight end
NFL Teams
Denver Broncos (1990–1999,2002–2003)
Baltimore Ravens (2000–2001)
NFL Draft:
1990: 7th round, 192nd overall pick
Denver Broncos
Number Worn:
81, 84, 82
NFL Stats
Seasons:
14 (1990–2003)
Games Played:
204
Games Started:
169
Receptions:
815
Receiving yards:
10,060
Receiving touchdowns:
62
Yards per reception:
12.3
Shorty Ray
Inducted:
1966
Executive Stats
Born:
September 21, 1884
Highland Park, Illinois, U.S.
Died:
September 16, 1956
Position:
Technical Advisor on the Rules
Supervisor of officials
College:
University of Illinois
Hugh “Shorty” Ray was one of the most influential figures in shaping the modern NFL. Born in 1884, Ray wasn’t a player or coach but a football technician whose deep understanding of the game helped professionalize its rules and officiating. As the NFL’s Technical Advisor and Supervisor of Officials from 1938 to 1952, he brought consistency, precision, and fairness to the league.
Ray standardized rule interpretations, rewrote the rulebook for clarity, and developed officiating manuals that emphasized speed, timing, and accuracy — setting the foundation for the game’s modern pace. He also introduced systematic methods for tracking statistics and enforcing penalties, helping football become more structured and spectator-friendly.
His efforts elevated the sport’s professionalism and credibility during its formative years. Ray’s unmatched contributions earned him induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1966.
Ray's Awards and Records
- Inducted into Pro Football Hall of Fame (1966)
- NFL’s first Technical Advisor for Rules and Officiating
- Credited with modernizing football’s rule enforcement
Notable Achievements
- Rewrote and standardized the NFL rulebook, creating the foundation for modern officiating practices still used today.
NFL
NFL Supervisor of officials (1938–1952)
NFL Tenure
Years Active in NFL:
1938–1952
Role:
Technical Advisor and Supervisor of Officials
Major Works:
NFL Rulebook Revision, Officiating Standards Manual
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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. 🏈✨