Search By First Name of HOFers
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
Bob Griese
Inducted:
1990
Player Stats
6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
190 lb (86 kg)
Born:
February 3, 1945
Evansville, Indiana, U.S.
Position:
Quarterback
College:
Purdue (1963–1966)
Bob Griese was the steady, intelligent quarterback who led the Miami Dolphins through their most successful era. Playing his entire career with the Dolphins from 1967 to 1980, he was known for his accurate passing, calm leadership, and ability to adapt to the team’s needs.
Griese guided Miami to three consecutive Super Bowl appearances, winning two, including the 1972 season when the Dolphins completed the only perfect season in NFL history. A master of reading defenses, he balanced an efficient passing attack with the league’s top running game.
Griese was an eight-time Pro Bowler and a key part of Miami’s rise as a dominant force in the 1970s. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990.
Griese's Awards and Honors
- 2× Super Bowl champion (VII, VIII)
- 2× First-team All-Pro (1971, 1977)
- 6× Pro Bowl (1970, 1971, 1973, 1974, 1977, 1978)
- 2× AFL All-Star (1967, 1968)
- 2× First-team All-Big Ten (1965, 1966)
NFL Records
- Led the Miami Dolphins to the only perfect NFL season in history (1972)
- Ranked among the NFL’s top quarterbacks in passer rating during the 1970s
- NFL passing touchdowns leader (1977)
- NFL passer rating leader (1977)
- NFL completion percentage leader (1978)
NFL Team
Miami Dolphins (1967–1980)
NFL draft:
1967: 1st round, 4th pick
Miami Dolphins
Number Worn:
12
NFL Stats
Seasons:
1967–1980
Games Played:
161
Pass Attempts:
3,429
Completions:
1,926
Completion percentage:
56.2
Passing Yards:
25,092
Touchdowns:
192
Interceptions:
172
Passer Rating:
77.1
Bob Hayes
Inducted:
2009
Player Stats
5 ft 11 in (1.80 m)
185 lb (84 kg)
Born:
December 20, 1942
Jacksonville, Florida, US
Died:
September 18, 2002
Jacksonville, Florida, US
Position:
Wide receiver
College:
Florida A&M (1962–1964)
Bob “Bullet” Hayes was a rare breed of athlete—elite sprinter turned game-changing wide receiver. After winning Olympic gold medals in the 100-meter dash and the 4×100 relay at the 1964 Tokyo Games, he joined the Dallas Cowboys in 1965. His electrifying speed redefined the wide receiver role, forcing defenses to develop zone coverages. Hayes dominated the field, leading the league in touchdown receptions and yards per catch multiple times, and becoming a key offensive weapon.
He helped the Cowboys win Super Bowl VI and ended his career holding several team records. Although career and life challenges delayed recognition, his extraordinary impact was eventually honored with induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2009. Known for stretching defenses and changing how the passing game was played, Bob Hayes remains the only athlete ever to capture both Olympic gold and a Super Bowl ring.
Hayes' Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (VI)
- 2 × First-team All-Pro (1966, 1968)
- Second-team All-Pro (1967)
- 3 × Pro Bowl (1965–1967)
- 2 × NFL receiving touchdowns leader (1965, 1966)
- Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor
NFL Records
- Only athlete to win both Olympic gold and a Super Bowl ring
- Changed the NFL with his game-breaking speed and forced defensive strategies to evolve
- Held team records for touchdowns and receiving efficiency
- Revered by peers and acknowledged for redefining the wide receiver position
NFL Teams
Dallas Cowboys (1965–1974)
San Francisco 49ers (1975)
Bob Lilly
Inducted:
1980
Player Stats
6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)
260 lb (118 kg)
Born:
July 26, 1939
Olney, Texas, U.S.
Position:
Defensive tackle
College:
TCU (1958–1960)
Bob Lilly, nicknamed “Mr. Cowboy,” was the first-ever draft pick of the Dallas Cowboys and became the foundation of the franchise’s success through the 1960s and 1970s. A dominant defensive tackle known for his strength, quickness, and technique, Lilly set the standard for consistency and professionalism. He anchored the Cowboys’ “Doomsday Defense,” helping lead the team to two Super Bowl appearances and a victory in Super Bowl VI.
Lilly’s relentless pursuit of quarterbacks and ability to disrupt plays in the backfield made him one of the most feared linemen of his era. Over 14 seasons, he played 196 consecutive games and earned 11 Pro Bowl selections, embodying durability and excellence. His leadership and integrity on and off the field made him the ultimate Cowboy. Bob Lilly was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1980, honored as one of the greatest defensive linemen in NFL history.
Lilly's Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (VI)
- 7× First-team All-Pro (1964–1969, 1971)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1970, 1972)
- 11× Pro Bowl (1962, 1964–1973)
- NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
- NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
NFL Records
- First player ever drafted by the Dallas Cowboys
- Played 196 consecutive games (never missed a game)
- Leader of the Cowboys’ legendary “Doomsday Defense
NFL Teams
Dallas Cowboys (1961–1974)
NFL Draft:
1961: 1st round, 13th overall pick
Dallas Cowboys
Number Worn:
74
NFL Stats
Seasons:
14 (1961–1974)
Games Played:
196
Game Started:
196
Fumble recoveries:
18
Interceptions:
1
Defensive touchdowns:
4
Sacks:
95.5
Bob St. Clair
Inducted:
1990
Player Stats
6 ft 9 in (2.06 m)
263 lb (119 kg)
Born:
February 18, 1931
San Francisco, California, U.S.
Died:
April 20, 2015
Santa Rosa, California, U.S.
Position:
Offensive tackle
College:
San Francisco (1949–1951)
Tulsa (1952)
Bob St. Clair was one of the NFL’s most imposing and dependable offensive tackles, spending his entire professional career with the San Francisco 49ers from 1953 to 1963. Standing 6'9", he used his rare size, long reach, and strong technique to dominate defensive linemen and protect his quarterbacks during a pivotal era of offensive evolution. St. Clair was known for his toughness, consistent play, and leadership along the line.
He earned five Pro Bowl selections and three All-Pro honors, helping anchor some of the league’s most respected offensive fronts of the 1950s. Famous for his work ethic and intensity, St. Clair also became a fan favorite for his unique personality and community involvement. His contributions extended beyond the field as he later entered public service. Bob St. Clair was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990, honoring a career built on reliability and elite line play.
Clair's Awards and Records
- 5× First-team All-Pro (1955, 1956, 1958, 1960, 1961)
- 4× Second-team All-Pro (1953, 1954, 1962, 1963)
- 5× Pro Bowl (1956, 1958–1961)
- NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
- San Francisco 49ers No. 79 retired
Notable Achievements
- One of the tallest players of his era at 6'9"
- Key anchor of the 49ers’ offensive line for a decade
- Known for exceptional pass and run blocking consistency
NFL Teams
San Francisco 49ers (1953–1963)
NFL Draft:
1953: 3rd round, 32nd overall pick
San Francisco 49ers
Number Worn:
79
NFL Stats
Seasons:
11 (1953–1963)
Games Played:
119
Games Started:
117
Fumble recoveries:
7
Pro Bowl:
5 (1956, 1958–1961)
Bob Waterfield
Inducted:
1965
Player Stats
6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
200 lb (91 kg)
Born:
July 26, 1920
Elmira, New York, U.S.
Died:
March 25, 1983
Burbank, California, U.S.
Position:
Quarterback
Safety
Kicker
Punter
College:
UCLA (1941–1942, 1944)
Bob Waterfield was one of the early stars of professional football, becoming a leading figure for the Cleveland/Los Angeles Rams during the 1940s and early 1950s. A versatile quarterback, kicker, and team leader, Waterfield helped guide the Rams to the 1945 NFL Championship in his rookie season, earning league MVP honors. Known for his strong arm, field vision, and calm presence, he later led the Rams to another championship in 1951.
Waterfield formed one of the league’s most dynamic passing attacks and played a key role in shaping modern quarterback play. His all-around ability allowed him to contribute as a passer, runner, and kicker, making him one of the most complete players of his era. After retiring, he transitioned into coaching, further influencing the franchise.
Waterfield was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1965, honoring a career defined by leadership, versatility, and championship success.
Waterfield's Awards and Honors
- 2× NFL champion (1945, 1951)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (1945, 1946, 1949)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1950, 1951)
- 2× Pro Bowl (1950, 1951)
- 2× NFL passing touchdowns leader (1945, 1946)
NFL Records
- NFL Most Valuable Player (1945)
- NFL completion percentage leader (1946)
- NFL passer rating leader (1951)
- NFL 1940s All-Decade Team
NFL Teams
Cleveland / Los Angeles Rams (1945–1952)
NFL Draft:
1944: 5th round, 42nd overall pick
Cleveland / Los Angeles Rams
Number Worn:
7
NFL Stats
Seasons:
8 (1945-1952)
Games Played:
91
Game Started:
57
TD–INT:
97–128
Passing yards:
11,849
Passer rating:
61.6
Completion percentage:
50.3%
Interceptions made:
20
Field goals made:
60
Punting yards:
13,364
Points scored:
573
Bobby Beathard
Inducted:
2018
Player Stats
Born:
January 24, 1937
Zanesville, Ohio, U.S
Died:
January 30, 2023
Franklin, Tennessee, U.S.
Position:
Personnel administrator,
General Manager
College:
El Camino (1955)
Cal Poly (1956–1958)
Bobby Beathard was a legendary NFL executive whose career spanned over three decades, leaving an indelible mark on multiple franchises. Beginning as a scout with the Kansas City Chiefs in the 1960s, he contributed to their Super Bowl I appearance.
As Director of Player Personnel for the Miami Dolphins, he played a pivotal role in constructing teams that achieved back-to-back Super Bowl victories in 1972 and 1973, including the NFL's only perfect season in 1972. Beathard's tenure as General Manager of the Washington Redskins from 1978 to 1988 was marked by three Super Bowl appearances and two championships.
Later, as GM of the San Diego Chargers, he guided the team to its first Super Bowl appearance in 1994. Renowned for his keen eye for talent, Beathard was instrumental in drafting several future Hall of Famers.
His exceptional contributions to the sport were honored with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018.
Beathard's Awards and Records
- 4× Super Bowl champion (VII, VIII, XVII, XXII)
- Four-time Super Bowl Champion (VII, VIII, XVII, XXII)
- Seven Super Bowl Appearances across multiple teams
- Ten Division Titles and Seven Conference Championships
- Washington Commanders Ring of Fame
- Washington Commanders 90 Greatest
- Los Angeles Chargers Hall of Fame
NFL Teams
Kansas City Chiefs-Scout
(1963, 1966–1967)
Atlanta Falcons-Scout
(1968–1971)
Miami Dolphins-Director of player personnel
(1972–1977)
Washington Redskins-General manager
(1978–1988)
San Diego Chargers-General manager
(1990–2000)
NFL Stats
Super Bowl Victories:
4
Super Bowl Appearances:
7
Division Titles:
10
Conference Championships:
7
Notable Draft Picks:
Art Monk, Russ Grimm, Darrell Green, Junior Seau
Bobby Bell
Inducted:
1983
Player Stats
6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)
228 lb (103 kg)
Born:
June 17, 1940
Shelby, North Carolina, U.S.
Position:
Linebacker
Defensive End
College:
Minnesota (1960–1962)
Bobby Bell is a Hall of Fame linebacker renowned for his exceptional athleticism and versatility, playing his entire professional career with the Kansas City Chiefs from 1963 to 1974.
Standing 6'4" and weighing 228 pounds, Bell's speed and agility set him apart, allowing him to excel in multiple positions, including linebacker and defensive end.
He was instrumental in the Chiefs' success during the AFL era, contributing to their victory in Super Bowl IV. Bell's career statistics include 26 interceptions, 9 fumble recoveries, and 8 defensive touchdowns, showcasing his playmaking abilities.
His accolades feature 6 AFL All-Star selections, 3 Pro Bowl appearances, and induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1983.
Bell's Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (IV)
- AFL champion (1966)
- First-team All-Pro (1970)
- 5× First-team All-AFL (1965–1969)
- Second-team All-Pro (1971)
- Second-team All-AFL (1964)
- 3× Pro Bowl (1970–1972)
- 6× AFL All-Star (1964–1969)
- AFL All-Time Team
- First-team All-American (1961)
- 2× First-team All-Big Ten (1961, 1962)
- Minnesota Golden Gophers Jersey No. 78 retired
NFL Records
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
NFL Teams
Kansas City Chiefs (1963–1974)
NFL Draft:
1963: 7th round, 56th overall pick
Kansas City Chiefs
Number Worn:
78
NFL Records
Seasons:
12
Games Played:
168
Games Started:
159
Sacks:
40
Interceptions:
26
Interception yards:
479
Fumble recoveries:
9
Defensive touchdowns:
8
Bobby Dillon
Inducted:
2020
Player Stats
6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
180 lb (82 kg)
Born:
February 23, 1930
Pendleton, Texas, U.S.
Died:
August 22, 2019
Temple, Texas, U.S.
Position:
Defensive Back
College:
Texas
Bobby Dillon was one of the greatest defensive backs of the 1950s and a true ballhawk in the Green Bay Packers’ secondary. Despite losing an eye in childhood, Dillon starred as a free safety with sharp instincts, elite range, and a knack for making big plays. He played eight seasons (1952–1959), all with the Packers, and recorded 52 career interceptions in just 94 games — still the franchise record.
Dillon intercepted at least seven passes in four different seasons and was named to four Pro Bowls and five All-Pro teams. His blend of athleticism and football intelligence made him a standout in an era where passing was evolving rapidly.
Though overlooked for decades, his impact on the game was finally honored when he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020. Dillon was a true pioneer at the safety position, turning coverage into a dangerous weapon for his team.
Dillon's Awards and Honors
- 4× First-team All-Pro (1954, 1955, 1957, 1958)
- 4× Pro Bowl (1955–1958)
- Texas Sports Hall of Fame
- Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame
- First-team All-American (1951)
- First-team All-SWC (1951)
NFL Records
- One of the highest interception totals per game in NFL history
- Only player in NFL history with 50+ interceptions in fewer than 100 career games
- Led the NFL in interception return yards in 1956 (244 yards)
- Member of the NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
NFL Teams
Green Bay Packers (1952–1959)
NFL Draft:
1952: 3rd round, 28th pick
Green Bay Packers
Number Worn:
44
NFL Stats
Seasons:
8 (1952–1959)
Games Played:
94
Interceptions:
52
Interception Return Yards:
976
Interception TDs:
5
Fumble Recoveries:
3
Touchdowns (Defensive):
6
Bobby Layne
Inducted:
1967
Player Stats
6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
201 lb (91 kg)
Born:
December 19, 1926
Santa Anna, Texas, U.S.
Died:
December 1, 1986
Lubbock, Texas, U.S.
Position:
Quarterback
College:
Texas (1944–1947)
Bobby Layne was one of the NFL’s toughest and most charismatic quarterbacks, known for his leadership, grit, and clutch play. Over a 15-year career with the Bears, Bulldogs, Yankees, Lions, and Steelers, he embodied the spirit of 1950s football — fearless, physical, and fiercely competitive. Layne led the Detroit Lions to three NFL Championships (1952, 1953, 1957), establishing the team as a powerhouse of the era. A master of improvisation, he could win games with his arm, legs, or sheer willpower.
He finished his career with over 26,000 passing yards and 196 touchdowns, remarkable totals for his time. Off the field, his fiery personality and leadership inspired teammates and defined an era before modern passing offenses took shape. Layne was a six-time Pro Bowler and two-time First-Team All-Pro. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1967, remembered as one of the most fearless competitors in NFL history.
Layne's Awards and Honors
- 3× NFL champion (1952, 1953, 1957)
- 2× First-team All-Pro (1952, 1956)
- 4× Second-team All-Pro (1953, 1954, 1958, 1959)
- 6× Pro Bowl (1951–1953, 1956, 1958, 1959)
- 2× NFL passing yards leader (1950, 1951)
- NFL passing touchdowns leader (1951)
- NFL completion percentage leader (1955)
- NFL scoring leader (1956)
NFL Records
- Led NFL in passing yards twice
- Known for legendary comebacks and clutch fourth-quarter drives
- Regarded as one of the toughest quarterbacks in NFL history
NFL Teams
Chicago Bears (1948)
New York Bulldogs (1949)
Detroit Lions (1950–1958)
Pittsburgh Steelers (1958–1962)
NFL Draft:
1948: 1st round, 3rd overall pick
Pittsburgh Steelers
Number Worn:
22
NFL Stats
Seasons:
15 (1948–1962)
Games Played:
175
Game Started:
145
Passing attempts:
3,700
Passing completions:
1,814
Completion percentage:
49%
TD–INT:
196–243
Passing yards:
26,768
Passer rating:
63.4
Rushing yards:
2,451
Rushing touchdowns:
25
Bobby Mitchell
Inducted:
1983
Player Stats
6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
192 lb (87 kg)
Born:
June 6, 1935
Hot Springs, Arkansas, U.S.
Died:
April 5, 2020
Position:
Halfback
Wide receiver
College:
Illinois (1954–1957)
Bobby Mitchell was one of the most explosive and trailblazing players in NFL history, celebrated for his speed, versatility, and courage. Beginning his career with the Cleveland Browns (1958–1961), he formed a lethal backfield duo with Jim Brown before being traded to the Washington Redskins in 1962, where he became the team’s first African American player. Transitioning to wide receiver, Mitchell immediately led the league in receiving yards in his first two seasons with Washington, showcasing his elite athleticism and big-play ability.
Over his 11-year career, he amassed more than 14,000 all-purpose yards and 91 touchdowns, leaving a lasting mark as one of the game’s most dynamic offensive threats. Beyond his on-field excellence, Mitchell broke racial barriers and later served in the Redskins’ front office, helping open doors for future generations. Bobby Mitchell was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1983, forever remembered as both a pioneer and one of football’s great all-around talents.
Mitchell's Awards and Honors
- 3× first-team All-Pro (1962–1964)
- 2× second-team All-Pro (1959, 1960)
- 4× Pro Bowl (1960, 1962–1964)
- NFL receptions leader (1962)
- 2× NFL receiving yards leader (1962, 1963)
- NFL receiving touchdowns co-leader (1964)
NFL Records
- First African American player for the Washington Redskins
- One of only a few players to excel at two positions
- Among NFL leaders in all-purpose yards during the 1960s
NFL Teams
Cleveland Browns (1958–1961)
Washington Redskins (1962–1968)
NFL Draft:
1958: 7th round, 84th overall pick
Cleveland Browns
Number Worn:
49
NFL Stats
Seasons:
11 (1958–1968)
Games Played:
148
Games Started:
128
Receptions:
521
Receiving yards:
7,954
Rushing yards:
2,753
Rushing average:
5.3
Return yards:
3,380
Total touchdowns:
91
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. 🏈✨
