Search By First Name of HOFers
Dick Stanfel
Inducted:
2016
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
236 lb (107 kg)
Born:
July 20, 1927
San Francisco, California, U.S.
Died:
June 22, 2015
Libertyville, Illinois, U.S.
Position:
Guard
College:
San Francisco (1948–1950)
Dick Stanfel was one of the finest offensive guards of the 1950s, known for his power, technique, and leadership on the line. Playing for the Detroit Lions and later Washington, Stanfel became a central figure in Detroit’s dominant run game, helping the team win NFL Championships in 1952 and 1953. His blocking strength and mobility made him one of the most respected linemen of his era, earning widespread praise from teammates and opponents.
Stanfel was a five-time Pro Bowler and four-time First-Team All-Pro, achievements that reflected his consistent excellence in both run blocking and pass protection. After his playing career, he built a long coaching career, further contributing to the game. Dick Stanfel received long-overdue recognition with his Pro Football Hall of Fame induction in 2016, honoring his impact as one of the league’s early elite guards.
Stanfel's Awards and Honors
- 2× NFL champion (1952, 1953)
- 5× First-team All-Pro (1953, 1954, 1956–1958)
- 5× Pro Bowl (1953, 1955–1958)
- NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
Notable Achievements
- Key blocker for back-to-back championship teams
- Considered one of the best guards of the 1950s
- Exceptional run-blocking technique and on-field leadership
NFL Teams
Detroit Lions (1952–1955)
Washington Redskins (1956–1958)
NFL Draft:
1951: 2nd round, 19th overall pick
Detroit Lions
Number Worn:
63, 60
NFL Stats
Seasons:
7 (1952–1958)
Games Played:
73
Games Started:
71
Fumble recoveries:
3
NFL champion:
2 (1952, 1953)
Pro Bowl Wins:
5 (1953, 1955–1958)
Super Bowl champion:
1 (XX) as coach
Dick Vermeil
Inducted:
2022
Coach Stats
Born:
October 30, 1936
Calistoga, California, U.S.
Position:
Coach
College:
San Jose State
Dick Vermeil was one of the NFL’s most respected head coaches, known for his emotional leadership, meticulous preparation, and ability to rebuild struggling franchises. After rising through the coaching ranks, he first gained national recognition by leading the Philadelphia Eagles to Super Bowl XV in 1980, turning a long-struggling team into a contender. Following a 14-year break from coaching, Vermeil returned in 1997 to guide the St. Louis Rams.
His innovative offensive system and strong player relationships helped create “The Greatest Show on Turf,” culminating in a victory in Super Bowl XXXIV. Vermeil later revitalized the Kansas City Chiefs, producing one of the league’s most explosive offenses in the early 2000s. Known for his authenticity and deep care for his players, he developed a legacy built on trust, accountability, and culture change.
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2022, Vermeil’s influence continues to shape modern coaching standards.
Vermeil's Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (XXXIV)
- AP NFL Coach of the Year (1999)
- 2× Pro Football Weekly NFL Coach of the Year (1979, 1999)
- 2× The Sporting News NFL Coach of the Year (1979, 1999)
- 2× Greasy Neale Award (1999, 2003)
Notable Achievements
- One of the few coaches to lead multiple franchises to championship-level success
- Architect of the Greatest Show on Turf, one of the NFL’s most explosive offenses
- Led Eagles to first Super Bowl appearance in franchise history
NFL Teams
Philadelphia Eagles (1976–1982)
St. Louis Rams (1997–1999)
Kansas City Chiefs (2001–2005)
NFL Stats
Season Coached:
15
Game Coached:
229
Win:
120
Lose:
109
Win(%):
.524
Playoff Record:
6–5
Super Bowl Championships:
1 (Super Bowl XXXIV)
Super Bowl Appearances:
2
Doak Walker
Inducted:
1986
Player Stats
5 ft 11 in (1.80 m)
173 lb (78 kg)
Born:
January 1, 1927
Dallas, Texas, U.S.
Died:
September 27, 1998
Steamboat Springs, Colorado, U.S.
Position:
Halfback
Kicker
College:
SMU (1945; 1947–1949)
Doak Walker was one of the most versatile and electrifying players of the 1950s, known for his ability to impact the game as a runner, receiver, kicker, and returner. Drafted by the Detroit Lions in 1950, he immediately became a key figure in the team’s success, helping lead Detroit to NFL Championships in 1952 and 1953. Walker’s speed, balance, and football intelligence made him a threat from anywhere on the field.
Despite playing only six seasons, he earned Pro Bowl honors every year and became one of the league’s most efficient scorers. His reliability in big moments and his dynamic skill set turned the Lions into one of the decade’s premier teams. Walker’s influence extended beyond statistics—he helped popularize the modern multipurpose back.
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1986, he remains one of Detroit’s most beloved stars and a symbol of all-around excellence.
Walker's Awards and Honors
- 2× NFL champion (1952, 1953)
- 4× First-team All-Pro (1950, 1951, 1953, 1954)
- 5× Pro Bowl (1950, 1951, 1953–1955)
- 2× NFL scoring leader (1950, 1955)
- NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
- Detroit Lions No. 37 retired
Notable Achievements
- One of the NFL’s premier all-purpose players of the 1950s
- Led the league in scoring twice
- Key offensive force in Detroit’s back-to-back championships
NFL Teams
Detroit Lions (1950–1955)
NFL Draft:
1949: 1st round, 3rd overall pick
Boston Yanks
Number Worn:
37
NFL Stats
Seasons:
6 (1950–1955)
Games Played:
67
Game Started:
61
Rushing yards:
1,520
Rushing average:
4.9
Rushing touchdowns:
12
Receptions:
152
Receiving yards:
2,539
Receiving touchdowns:
21
Points scored:
534
Don Coryell
Inducted:
2023
Coach Stats
Born:
October 17, 1924
Seattle, Washington, U.S.
Died:
July 1, 2010
La Mesa, California, U.S.
Position:
Coach
College:
Washington
Don Coryell (1924–2010) was one of the most influential coaches in football history, known for revolutionizing the passing game through his "Air Coryell" offense. Though he never played in the NFL, his coaching brilliance redefined offensive football. As head coach of the St. Louis Cardinals (1973–77) and San Diego Chargers (1978–86), Coryell compiled a 111–83–1 NFL record.
He led the league in passing yards for six consecutive seasons and turned the Chargers into a powerhouse with Dan Fouts, Kellen Winslow, and Charlie Joiner. Before the NFL, he dominated the college ranks at San Diego State, going 104–19–2. His innovations—vertical passing, timing routes, and modern tight end usage—shaped today’s game.
Despite never reaching a Super Bowl, his legacy is cemented by the explosive offenses he engineered and the generations of coaches and players he inspired. Coryell was finally inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2023.
Coryell's Awards and Records
- AP NFL Coach of the Year (1974)
- Los Angeles Chargers Hall of Fame
- San Diego Chargers 40th Anniversary Team
- San Diego Chargers 50th Anniversary Team
- 3× NCAA College Division champion (1966–1968)
- 3× SCIAC champion (1957–1959)
- 3× CCAA champion (1962, 1966–1967)
- 3× PCAA champion (1969–1970, 1972)
- Pro Football Hall of Fame
- 2× NFL Coach of the Year (1974 & 1979)
- Chargers Hall of Fame inductee (1986)
- College Football Hall of Fame inductee
- Led NFL in passing yards a record 6 consecutive years (1978–1983,1985)
- Led NFL in total offense, first downs, and scoring multiple seasons under “Air Coryell”
NFL Teams
San Diego State (1961–1972)
St. Louis Cardinals (1973–1977)
San Diego Chargers (1978–1986)
NFL Stats
Coaching Record:
114–89–1 (.561)
Coaching Seasons:
14 (1973–1986)
Playoff Record:
3–6 (.333)
Division Titles (NFL):
5 (2 w/ Cardinals, 3 w/ Chargers)
College Coaching Record:
104–19–2 (San Diego State)
Total Combined Wins:
215 (NFL + NCAA)
Hall of Fame Induction:
2023 (Pro Football Hall of Fame)
Coach of the Year:
1974 (UPI), 1979 (Sporting News)
Don Hutson
Inducted:
1963
Player Stats
6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
183 lb (83 kg)
Born:
January 31, 1913
Pine Bluff, Arkansas, US
Died:
June 26, 1997
Rancho Mirage, California, US
Position:
End
Safety
Kicker
College:
Alabama (1932–1934)
Don Hutson, born January 31, 1913, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, revolutionized professional football as the NFL’s first great wide receiver. Playing his entire career (1935–1945) with the Green Bay Packers, Hutson transformed the passing game with his speed, precise route running, and sure hands. Before his arrival, offenses relied heavily on running, but Hutson’s dominance helped elevate the forward pass as a primary weapon.
In 11 seasons, he recorded 488 receptions for 7,991 yards and 99 touchdowns—unprecedented numbers for his time. He led the league in receiving yards seven times, touchdown catches nine times, and scoring five times, setting 18 NFL records. A two-time NFL MVP, Hutson helped the Packers win three championships (1936, 1939, 1944). Nicknamed the “Alabama Antelope,” he was the prototype for the modern receiver and remains a legend in football history.
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in its inaugural class of 1963, Hutson’s impact on the game is immeasurable.
Hutson's Awards and Honors
- 3× NFL champion (1936, 1939, 1944)
- 2× NFL Most Valuable Player (1941, 1942)
- 8× First-team All-Pro (1938–1945)
- 4× Pro Bowl (1939–1942)
- 8× NFL receptions leader (1936, 1937, 1939, 1941–1945)
- 7× NFL receiving yards leader (1936, 1938, 1939, 1941–1944)
- 9× NFL receiving touchdowns leader (1935–1938, 1940–1944)
- 5× NFL scoring leader (1940–1944)
NFL Records
- Most seasons leading league in points scored: 5
- Most seasons leading league in touchdowns: 8
- Held 18 NFL records at retirement
- NFL 1930s All-Decade Team
- First receiver to surpass 50, 60, and 70 catches in a season
NFL Teams
As Player:
Green Bay Packers (1935–1945)
As Coach:
Green Bay Packers (1944–1948)
Number Worn:
14
NFL Stats
Seasons:
11 (1935–1945)
Games Played:
116
Receptions:
488
Receiving yards:
7,991
Receiving touchdowns:
99
Interceptions:
30
Interception return yards:
389
Safeties:
1
Don Maynard
Inducted:
1987
Player Stats
6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
180 lb (82 kg)
Born:
January 25, 1935
Crosbyton, Texas, U.S.
Died:
January 10, 2022
Ruidoso, New Mexico, U.S.
Position:
Wide receiver
College:
Texas Western
Don Maynard was one of the most prolific wide receivers in NFL history, known for his speed, route-running, and big-play ability. Beginning his career with the New York Giants in 1958, he later became a star with the New York Jets, where he was a central figure in their high-powered offense. Maynard helped revolutionize the deep passing game, stretching defenses and creating scoring opportunities with his precise routes and explosive acceleration.
Over his career, he amassed more than 11,000 receiving yards and 88 touchdowns, ranking among the league’s all-time leaders at the time of his retirement. He was a key member of the Jets’ legendary Super Bowl III victory, contributing to one of the most famous upsets in NFL history. A seven-time Pro Bowler, Maynard’s consistency and impact on the passing game set a standard for future generations of wideouts.
Don Maynard was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987, honoring his enduring influence on the NFL.
Maynard's Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (III)
- AFL champion (1968)
- 2× First-team All-AFL (1968, 1969)
- 3× Second-team All-AFL (1960, 1965, 1967)
- 4× AFL All-Star (1965, 1967–1969)
- AFL receiving touchdowns co-leader (1965)
NFL Records
- Key receiver in Jets’ Super Bowl III upset
- One of the first receivers to consistently stretch defenses deep
- Held multiple all-time receiving records upon retirement
NFL Teams
New York Giants (1958)
Hamilton Tiger-Cats (1959)
New York Titans / Jets (1960–1972)
St. Louis Cardinals (1973)
Los Angeles Rams (1973)
Houston Texans (1974)
NFL Draft:
1957: 9th round, 109th overall pick
New York Giants
Number Worn:
13
NFL Stats
Seasons:
14 (1958–1973)
Games Played:
186
Game Started:
159
Receptions:
633
Receiving yards:
11,834
Touchdowns:
88
Don Shula
Inducted:
1997
Coach Stats
5 ft 11 in (1.80 m)
190 lb (86 kg)
Born:
January 4, 1930
Grand River, Ohio, U.S.
Died:
May 4, 2020
Indian Creek, Florida, U.S.
Position:
Defensive back
Coach
College:
John Carroll
Don Shula built one of the greatest coaching legacies in NFL history, setting a standard for leadership, discipline, and sustained success. After a brief playing career, he moved into coaching and became the youngest head coach in the league when he took over the Baltimore Colts in 1963. Shula later joined the Miami Dolphins in 1970, where he built a dynasty defined by preparation and consistency. He led Miami to two Super Bowl titles, including the historic 1972 season—still the only perfect season in NFL history, finishing 17–0.
Known for adapting his system to his players, Shula won with both power run offenses and elite passing attacks. His 347 total victories remain the most by any coach in NFL history. Shula’s impact extended beyond wins, shaping the Dolphins’ identity for decades and mentoring many future coaches. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1997, honoring a career unmatched in longevity and achievement.
Shula's Awards and Honors
- 2× Super Bowl champion (VII, VIII)
- NFL champion (1968)
- 4× AP NFL Coach of the Year (1964, 1967, 1968, 1972)
- Lamar Hunt Award (2013)
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
NFL Records
- Most regular season wins as a head coach (328)
- Most total wins as a head coach (347)
- Coached only undefeated season through regular season and playoffs
- Most wins by a head coach in NFL history (347)
- Only coach to lead a team to a perfect season (1972 Dolphins)
NFL Teams
As Player:
Cleveland Browns (1951–1952)
Baltimore Colts (1953–1956)
Washington Redskins (1957)
As a coach:
Detroit Lions (1960–1962)
Baltimore Colts (1963–1969)
Miami Dolphins (1970–1995)
NFL Stats
As Player-
Games played:
73
Interceptions:
21
As Coach-
Regular season:
328–156–6 (.676)
Postseason:
19–17 (.528)
Career:
347–173–6 (.665)
Donnie Shell
Inducted:
2020
Player Stats
5 ft 11 in (1.80 m)
190 lb (86 kg)
Born:
August 26, 1952
Whitmire, South Carolina, U.S.
Position:
Safety/Defensive Back
College:
South Carolina State
Donnie Shell became one of the most respected safeties of the 1970s and early 1980s, earning his place as a key member of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ famed “Steel Curtain” defense. Signed as an undrafted free agent in 1974, Shell developed into a smart, physical, and reliable playmaker who excelled in both run support and coverage. He played a major role during Pittsburgh’s dynasty years, helping the team win four Super Bowls in six seasons.
Shell’s consistency made him one of the league’s most productive safeties, finishing his career with 51 interceptions—one of the highest totals among strong safeties. His leadership and durability helped define the Steelers’ defensive identity for more than a decade. After retiring, Shell remained active in player development and mentoring roles, further adding to his legacy.
He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020, recognizing his long-standing impact on one of the NFL’s greatest defenses.
Shell's Awards and Honors
- 4× Super Bowl champion (IX, X, XIII, XIV)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (1979, 1980, 1982)
- Second-team All-Pro (1981)
- 5× Pro Bowl (1978–1982)
- Pittsburgh Steelers All-Time Team
NFL Records
- Most interceptions by a strong safety at the time of his retirement
- Only undrafted defensive back to win four Super Bowls
- Key part of the legendary Steel Curtain dynasty
NFL Teams
Pittsburgh Steelers (1974–1987)
NFL Draft:
1974: undrafted
Number Worn:
31
NFL Stats
Seasons:
14 (1974–1987)
Games Played:
201
Game Started:
162
Interceptions:
51
INT yards:
490
Fumble recoveries:
19
Defensive touchdowns:
4
Doug Atkins
Inducted:
1982
Player Stats
Stats:
6 ft 8 in (2.03 m)
257 lb (117 kg)
Born:
May 8, 1930
Humboldt, Tennessee, U.S.
Died:
December 30, 2015
Knoxville, Tennessee, U.S.
Position:
Defensive end
College:
Tennessee (1950–1952)
Doug Atkins was one of the most feared defensive linemen in NFL history. Standing 6-foot-8, his rare combination of size, strength, and agility made him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks.
Atkins played 17 seasons (1953–1969), primarily with the Chicago Bears and New Orleans Saints, after starting his career with the Cleveland Browns.
His relentless pass rush and ability to disrupt offenses made him one of the greatest defensive players of his era.
A key figure in the Bears’ 1963 NFL Championship run, Atkins was an 8-time Pro Bowler and a Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee in 1982.
Atkins' Awards and Honors
- 2× NFL champion (1954, 1963)
- First-team All-Pro (1963)
- 6× Second-team All-Pro (1957–1960, 1965, 1968)
- 8× Pro Bowl (1957–1963, 1965)
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
- 100 greatest Bears of All-Time
- New Orleans Saints Hall of Fame
- National champion (1951)
- First-team All-American (1952)
- 2× First-team All-SEC (1951, 1952)
- Tennessee Volunteers No. 91 retired
NFL Records
- One of the first truly dominant pass rushers
- Played 17 seasons, one of the longest careers for a defensive lineman
- Known for his leaping ability, often batting down passes and blocking kicks
- Part of the legendary 1963 Bears defense
NFL Teams
Cleveland Browns (1953–1954)
Chicago Bears (1955–1966)
New Orleans Saints (1967–1969)
NFL draft:
1953: 1st round, 11th pick
Cleveland Browns
Numbers Worn:
83, 81
NFL Stats
Seasons:
17
Games Played:
205
Games Started:
176
Sacks:
94.5
Fumble Recoveries:
11
Interceptions:
3
Interception Yards:
3
Fumble Yards:
34
Drew Brees
Inducted:
2026
Player Stats
6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)209 lb (95 kg)
Born:
January 15, 1979
Dallas, Texas, U.S.
Position:
Quarterback
College:
Purdue (1997–2000)
Drew Brees became one of the most productive and accurate quarterbacks in NFL history during a 20-year career with the San Diego Chargers and New Orleans Saints. After finding his footing in San Diego, Brees reached another level after joining New Orleans in 2006. He led the NFL in passing yards seven times and passing touchdowns four times, while recording five seasons with more than 5,000 passing yards.
Brees guided the Saints to their first Super Bowl title in the 2009 season and earned Super Bowl XLIV MVP honors after defeating the Indianapolis Colts. He finished his career with 80,358 passing yards and 571 touchdown passes, both ranking second in NFL history at the time of his retirement.
A 13-time Pro Bowler and two-time AP Offensive Player of the Year, Brees was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2026.
Brees' Awards and Honors
- First-team All-Pro (2006)
- Super Bowl champion (XLIV)
- Super Bowl MVP (XLIV)
- First-team All-Pro (2006)
- 4× Second-team All-Pro (2008, 2009, 2011, 2018)
- 13× Pro Bowl (2004, 2006, 2008–2014, 2016–2019)
- 2× First-team All-Big Ten (1999, 2000)
NFL Records
- 7× NFL passing yards leader (2006, 2008, 2011, 2012, 2014–2016)
- 4× NFL passing touchdowns leader (2008, 2009, 2011, 2012)
- 2× NFL passer rating leader (2009, 2018)
- 6× NFL completion percentage leader (2009–2011, 2017–2019)
- Highest completion percentage in a season: 74.4% (2018)
- Most passing touchdowns in a game: 7 (tied)
- Most consecutive games with a touchdown pass: 54
- Most career 5,000 yards seasons: 5
- NFL Comeback Player of the Year (2004)
NFL Teams
San Diego Chargers (2001–2005)
New Orleans Saints (2006–2020)
NFL Draft:
2001 (2nd round, 32nd overall pick)
San Diego Chargers
Number Worn:
9
NFL Stats
Seasons:
20 (2001–2020)
Games Played:
287
Game Started:
286
Passing attempts:
10,551
Passing completions:
7,142
Completion percentage:
67.7%
TD–INT:
571–243
Passing yards:
80,358
Rushing touchdowns:
25
Drew Pearson
Inducted:
2021
Player Stats
6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
184 lb (83 kg)
Born:
January 12, 1951
South River, New Jersey, U.S.
Position:
Wide receiver
College:
Tulsa
Drew Pearson was one of the most reliable and clutch wide receivers of the NFL’s 1970s era. Playing his entire 11-year career (1973–1983) with the Dallas Cowboys, Pearson earned the nickname “Mr. Clutch” for his ability to make key catches in critical moments, often turning the tide of games. Known for precise route running, sure hands, and exceptional football intelligence, he was a favorite target of quarterback Roger Staubach. Pearson’s contributions helped the Cowboys win three Super Bowl titles (VI, XII, XIII) and appear in numerous playoff games.
Over his career, he recorded 489 receptions for 7,822 yards and 48 touchdowns, consistently ranking among the league’s top receivers. Beyond his statistics, Pearson’s leadership, professionalism, and knack for game-changing plays made him an integral part of Dallas’ sustained success. Drew Pearson was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2021, recognized as one of the premier receivers of his generation.
Pearson's Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (XII)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (1974, 1976, 1977)
- 3× Pro Bowl (1974, 1976, 1977)
- NFL receiving yards leader (1977)
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
NFL Records
- Nicknamed “Mr. Clutch” for game-changing plays
- Key target for Roger Staubach during Cowboys dynasty
- Known for precise route running and consistency
NFL Teams
As player:
Dallas Cowboys (1973–1983)
As coach:
Dallas Texans (1991)
NFL Draft:
1973: undrafted
Number Worn:
88
NFL Stats
Seasons:
11 (1973–1983)
Games Played:
156
Game Started:
143
Receptions:
489
Receiving yards:
7,822
Receiving touchdowns:
48
Yards per Receptions:
16.0
Duke Slater
Inducted:
2020
Player Stats
6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
215 lb (98 kg)
Born:
December 9, 1898
Normal, Illinois, U.S.
Died:
August 14, 1966
Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
Position:
Tackle
College:
Centenary (1922–1924)
Iowa (1918–1921)
Duke Slater was one of the earliest and most influential linemen in professional football, breaking barriers and excelling during an era when opportunities for Black athletes were extremely limited. Joining the NFL in 1922, he became a standout tackle for the Milwaukee Badgers and later the Chicago Cardinals, where his strength, quickness, and technical skill made him one of the league’s most respected players. Slater earned widespread recognition for his dominance in the trenches, consistently excelling against some of the best linemen of his time.
His durability was remarkable—he reportedly played more than 10 seasons without missing a game. Slater’s impact extended off the field as well, paving the way for future generations of Black athletes in pro football. After retiring, he went on to a successful legal career and became one of the first Black judges in Chicago. Duke Slater was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020, honoring his pioneering legacy.
Slater's Awards and Honors
- 4× First-team All-Pro (1923, 1925, 1927, 1929)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1924, 1930)
- National champion (1921)
- 3× First-team All-Big Ten (1919–1921)
NFL Records
- One of the first Black stars in NFL history
- Played more than 10 seasons without missing a game
- Key lineman during the early growth of professional football
NFL Teams
Rock Island Independents (1922,1923–1926)
Milwaukee Badgers (1922)
Chicago Cardinals (1926–1931)
Number Worn:
14, 16, 7, 47
NFL Stats
Seasons:
10 (1922–1931)
Games played:
90
Games started:
87
Touchdowns scored:
1
National champion:
1 (1921)
Dutch Clark
Inducted:
1963
Player Stats
6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
185 lb (84 kg)
Born:
October 11, 1906
Fowler, Colorado, U.S.
Died:
August 5, 1978
Cañon City, Colorado, U.S.
Position:
Running back
College:
Colorado College (1927–1929)
Earl “Dutch” Clark was one of the NFL’s first true stars—a triple-threat back whose intelligence and versatility transformed the game. After dominating at Colorado College as an All‑American quarterback in 1928, he joined the Portsmouth Spartans in 1931 and continued his stardom with the newly relocated Detroit Lions. Clark led the league in scoring three times, was named All‑Pro six times, and guided the Lions to the 1935 NFL Championship. A cunning strategist, he passed, ran, and kicked, holding the NFL’s career scoring record (369 points) at retirement.
In his final two seasons, he served as player-coach. Post-NFL, Clark coached and later became an athletic director at the University of Detroit. Inducted into both the inaugural College Football Hall of Fame class (1951) and the first class of the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963, his #7 jersey was the first retired by the Lions. Clark’s legacy is defined by skill, leadership, and pioneering spirit that shaped early professional football.
Clark's Awards and Honors
- Pride of the Lions
- Detroit Lions 75th Anniversary Team
- Detroit Lions All-Time Team
- Detroit Lions No. 7 retired
- First-team All-American (1928)
NFL Records
- NFL champion (1935)
- 6× First-team All-Pro (1931, 1932, 1934–1937)
- 3× NFL rushing touchdowns leader (1934, 1936, 1937)
- 3× NFL scoring leader (1932, 1935, 1936)
- NFL 1930s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
NFL Teams
Portsmouth Spartans / Detroit Lions (1931–1932; 1934–1938)
Number Worn:
19, 12, 7
NFL Stats
TD–INT:
11–26
Passing yards:
1,507
Rushing yards:
2,772
Rushing touchdowns:
36
Receptions:
28
Receiving yards:
341
Receiving touchdowns:
6
Points scored:
369
Coaching Career:
NFL: 30–34–2 (.470)
College: 14–22 (.389)
Dwight Freeney
Inducted:
2024
Player Stats
6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
268 lb (122 kg)
Born:
February 18, 1980
Hartford, Connecticut, U.S.
Position:
Defensive End
Linebacker
College:
Syracuse (1998–2001)
Dwight Freeney was one of the most feared pass rushers of his era, known for his explosive speed and signature spin move. Drafted 11th overall by the Indianapolis Colts in 2002, he quickly made an impact, earning Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. Freeney played the majority of his career with the Colts, helping them win Super Bowl XLI. Across 16 seasons with seven teams, he compiled 125.5 sacks, ranking among the league’s top all-time pass rushers.
A seven-time Pro Bowler and three-time First-Team All-Pro, Freeney anchored dominant defensive fronts and consistently disrupted quarterbacks. His elite burst off the edge and ability to pressure in big moments defined his legacy. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame for his relentless impact on the game, Freeney left a lasting mark as one of the NFL’s premier defensive ends.
Freeney's Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (XLI)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (2004, 2005, 2009)
- Second-team All-Pro (2003)
- 7× Pro Bowl (2003–2005, 2008–2011)
- NFL sacks leader (2004)
- NFL forced fumbles co-leader (2002)
- NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
NFL Records
- Most career sacks in Indianapolis Colts history at the time of his departure
- First player in NFL history to record at least 1 sack in 11 consecutive postseason games
- One of only a few players to record double-digit sacks in each of his first four NFL seasons
- Member of the NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
NFL Teams
Indianapolis Colts (2002–2012)
San Diego Chargers (2013–2014)
Arizona Cardinals (2015)
Atlanta Falcons (2016)
Seattle Seahawks (2017)
Detroit Lions (2017)
NFL Draft:
2002: 1st round, 11th pick
Indianapolis Colts
Number Worn:
93, 54
NFL Stats
Seasons:
16 (2002–2017)
Games Played:
218
Total Sacks:
125.5
Tackles:
350
Forced Fumbles:
47
Fumble recoveries:
4
Pass deflections:
17
Defensive touchdowns:
1
Super Bowl Titles:
1 (Super Bowl XLI)
Dwight Stephenson
Inducted:
1998
Player Stats
6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
255 lb (116 kg)
Born:
November 20, 1957
Murfreesboro, North Carolina, U.S.
Position:
Center
College:
Alabama
Dwight Stephenson is widely regarded as one of the greatest centers in NFL history. Playing for the Miami Dolphins from 1980 to 1987, he became the anchor of one of the league’s most efficient offensive lines. Known for his exceptional quickness, strength, and intelligence, Stephenson excelled in both run blocking and pass protection, allowing remarkably few sacks during Dan Marino’s early years.
Even though his career was shortened by injury, his dominance was unquestioned—he earned five Pro Bowl selections and was named First-Team All-Pro five straight seasons. Stephenson consistently graded as one of the league’s top linemen and was celebrated for his leadership, technique, and consistency. His impact helped define Miami’s offensive success throughout the 1980s.
Dwight Stephenson was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998, securing his legacy as one of the finest centers ever to play the game.
Stephenson's Awards and Honors
- NFL Man of the Year (1985)
- 4× First-team All-Pro (1984–1987)
- Second-team All-Pro (1983)
- 5× Pro Bowl (1983–1987)
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
NFL Records
- Allowed extremely few sacks over his career
- Dominant all-around center during Marino’s early era
- Considered one of the best pass-blocking centers in NFL history
NFL Teams
Miami Dolphins (1980–1988)
NFL Draft:
1980: 2nd round, 48th overall pick
Miami Dolphins
Number Worn:
57
NFL Stats
Seasons:
8 (1980–1987)
Games Played:
114
Games Started:
87
Fumble Recoveries:
3
Pro Bowl:
5 (1983–1987)
NFL Man of the Year:
1985
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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. 🏈✨