Search By First Name of HOFers
Ed Reed
Inducted:
2019
Player Stats
5 ft 11 in (1.80 m)
205 lb (93 kg)
Born:
September 11, 1978
St. Rose, Louisiana, U.S.
Position:
Safety
College:
Miami (1997–2001)
Ed Reed is widely regarded as one of the greatest safeties in NFL history. Born in 1978, he was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the first round of the 2002 NFL Draft. Known for his unmatched instincts, field vision, and playmaking ability, Reed became the centerpiece of Baltimore’s dominant defense. His knack for reading quarterbacks and turning interceptions into game-changing returns made him a constant threat.
Reed finished his career with 64 interceptions, seven defensive touchdowns, and over 1,500 interception return yards — the most in NFL history. A fierce leader and student of the game, he helped the Ravens capture Super Bowl XLVII in 2013. Reed’s intelligence, anticipation, and versatility set the standard for the safety position, influencing generations of defenders after him.
His remarkable career earned him induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2019.
Reed's Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (XLVII)
- NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2004)
- NFL Alumni Defensive Back of the Year (2008)
- 5× First-team All-Pro (2004, 2006–2008, 2010)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (2003, 2009, 2011)
- 9× Pro Bowl (2003, 2004, 2006–2012)
- 3× NFL interceptions leader
NFL Records
- Most career interception return yards: 1,590
- Longest interception return: 107 yards
- Most career postseason interceptions: 9 (tied)
- Most seasons leading league in interceptions: 3
NFL Teams
Baltimore Ravens (2002–2012)
Houston Texans (2013)
New York Jets (2013)
NFL Draft:
2002: 1st round, 24th overall pick
Baltimore Ravens
Number Worn:
20, 22
NFL Stats
Seasons:
12 (2002–2013)
Games Played:
174
Game Started:
169
Interceptions:
64
Interception yards:
1,590
Pass deflections:
139
Total tackles:
646
Forced fumbles:
11
Fumble recoveries:
13
Sacks:
6
Defensive touchdowns:
13
Ed Sabol
Inducted:
2011
Stats
Born:
September 11, 1916
Atlantic City, New Jersey, U.S.
Died:
February 9, 2015
Scottsdale, Arizona, U.S.
Position:
Founder of NFL Films
College:
Ohio State University
Ed Sabol forever changed how the world experienced football by founding NFL Films, the company that brought cinematic storytelling to the gridiron. Born in 1916, Sabol’s passion for filmmaking and football led him to convince the NFL in 1962 to let him film the championship game — a move that sparked a revolution in sports media. Through dramatic slow-motion shots, orchestral music, and powerful narration, Sabol turned NFL games into emotional, timeless stories.
His innovative approach helped elevate football’s popularity and cemented the league’s place in American culture. NFL Films won over 100 Emmy Awards under his leadership, blending art and athletics like never before. Beyond his creativity, Sabol’s vision made players into legends and moments into history. His legacy continues through the visual style and storytelling that define sports media today. Ed Sabol was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2011.
Sabol's Awards and Records
- Inducted into Pro Football Hall of Fame (2011)
- Winner of 35+ Emmy Awards personally
- Lifetime Achievement Award (Sports Emmy Awards)
- Founder of NFL Films (1962)
Notable Achievement
- Pioneered cinematic storytelling in sports broadcasting
- Introduced slow motion, sideline sound, and narrative-style commentary
- Helped make the NFL the most visually iconic sports league
- Elevated players and games into cultural legends through film artistry
NFL Activity
Founder of NFL Films (1962–1995)
NFL Stats
Founded NFL Films:
1962
Years Active:
1962–1995
Emmy Awards (NFL Films):
Over 100
Ed Sprinkle
Inducted:
2020
Player Stats
6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
206 lb (93 kg)
Born:
September 3, 1923
Bradshaw, Texas, U.S.
Died:
July 28, 2014
Palos Heights, Illinois, U.S.
Position:
Defensive end
End
College:
Hardin–Simmons (1940–1942)
Navy (1943)
Ed Sprinkle was one of the most feared defensive players of his generation, starring for the Chicago Bears from 1944 to 1955. Known for his relentless pursuit and physical style, he earned the nickname “The Claw” for his ability to overpower blockers and disrupt plays. Sprinkle played both defensive end and linebacker during an era when players often moved between roles, but his impact as a pass rusher made him a standout.
George Halas considered him one of the toughest players he ever coached, and opponents consistently viewed him as one of the league’s most disruptive defenders. Sprinkle earned four Pro Bowl selections and helped the Bears win the 1946 NFL Championship. His aggressive approach influenced how future edge defenders played the game. After decades of being overlooked, he received long-deserved recognition with his Pro Football Hall of Fame induction in 2020.
Sprinkle's Awards and Honors
- NFL champion (1946)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (1951, 1952, 1954)
- 4× Pro Bowl (1950–1952, 1954)
- NFL 1940s All-Decade Team
- 100 greatest Bears of All-Time
Notable Achievements
- One of the earliest dominant pass rushers
- Key defensive leader for the 1940s–50s Bears
- Known league wide for disruptive, physical defensive play
NFL Teams
Chicago Bears (1944–1955)
Edgerrin James
Inducted:
2020
Player Stats
6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
219 lb (99 kg)
Born:
August 1, 1978
Immokalee, Florida, U.S.
Position:
Running back
College:
Miami (FL) (1996–1998)
Edgerrin James, born August 1, 1978, in Immokalee, Florida, established himself as one of the most complete running backs in NFL history. Drafted fourth overall in 1999, he immediately made an impact with the Indianapolis Colts, winning Offensive Rookie of the Year and leading the league in rushing his first two seasons. Known for his vision, balance, and versatility, James excelled as both a rusher and receiver, becoming the engine of the Colts’ high-powered offense alongside Peyton Manning and Marvin Harrison.
Over 11 seasons with the Colts, Arizona Cardinals, and Seattle Seahawks, he recorded 12,246 rushing yards, 3,364 receiving yards, and 91 total touchdowns. A four-time Pro Bowler and two-time NFL rushing champion, James ranks among the top all-time leaders in career rushing yards. His consistency and durability made him a cornerstone of Indianapolis’ success in the 2000s. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020, James remains celebrated as one of the league’s premier dual-threat backs.
James' Awards and Honors
- NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (1999)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (1999, 2000, 2004)
- 4× Pro Bowl (1999, 2000, 2004, 2005)
- 2× NFL rushing yards leader (1999, 2000)
- NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
- NFL All-Rookie Team (1999)
- Indianapolis Colts Ring of Honor
- First-team All-Big East (1998)
NFL Records
- First player in NFL history to win rushing titles in each of his first two seasons
- 12th all-time in career rushing yards at retirement
- Only player in Colts history with four 1,500+ yard rushing seasons
NFL Teams
Indianapolis Colts (1999–2005)
Arizona Cardinals (2006–2008)
Seattle Seahawks (2009)
NHL Draft:
1999: 1st round, 4th overall pick
Indianapolis Colts
Number Worn:
32
NFL Stats
Seasons:
11 (1999–2009)
Games Played:
148
Game Started:
135
Rushing attempts:
3,028
Rushing yards:
12,246
Rushing touchdowns:
80
Receptions:
433
Receiving yards:
3,364
Receiving touchdowns:
11
Edward J. DeBartolo Jr.
Inducted:
2016
Player Stats
Born:
November 6, 1946
Youngstown, Ohio, U.S.
Position:
Team Owner
College:
NA
Edward J. DeBartolo Jr. was the visionary owner behind one of the greatest dynasties in NFL history—the San Francisco 49ers. From 1977 to 2000, under his leadership, the 49ers won five Super Bowl titles, transforming into a model of excellence, stability, and innovation. DeBartolo hired Hall of Fame coaches like Bill Walsh and George Seifert, and supported legendary players including Joe Montana, Jerry Rice, and Steve Young.
Known for treating his players and staff like family, DeBartolo built a first-class organizational culture that emphasized loyalty, preparation, and winning. His willingness to invest in facilities, people, and long-term success helped modernize team ownership in the NFL. DeBartolo’s 49ers posted 16 playoff appearances, 13 division titles, and 10 NFC Championship appearances in his 23 seasons.
He was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2016 as a contributor who forever changed how winning franchises are built.
DeBartolo's Awards and Records
- 5× Super Bowl champion (XVI, XIX, XXIII, XXIV, XXIX)
- San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame
- Italian American Sports Hall of Fame
- Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame (2008)
- Most Super Bowls won under one owner (tied)
- NFL Executive of the Year (1992, 1994)
- Established player-first culture ahead of its time
NFL Teams
San Francisco 49ers (1977–2000)
Owner
NFL Stats
Team Ownership:
San Francisco 49ers (1977–2000)
Super Bowl Titles:
5 (XVI, XIX, XXIII, XXIV, XXIX)
Division Titles:
13
Playoff Appearances:
16
NFC Championship Games:
10
Regular Season Record:
226–134–1
Winning Percentage:
.627
Elroy Hirsch
Inducted:
1968
Elroy “Crazylegs” Hirsch was a dynamic and game-changing receiver in the NFL, starring with the Los Angeles Rams after playing in the AAFC. His unique, twisting running style earned him his iconic nickname. In the 1951 season, he rewrote the record books with 66 catches for 1,495 yards and an astonishing 17 touchdowns—and that was a league year with just 12 games.
His performance was central to the Rams capturing the NFL championship that year. Across his NFL career, he totaled 387 receptions, 7,029 yards, and 60 receiving touchdowns, also contributing as a versatile runner when needed. Known for his speed, playmaking ability, and flair, Hirsch left an enduring impact on the evolution of passing offense.
In 1968, he was honored with election to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, cementing his place among the sport’s legends.
Hirsch's Awards and Honors
- NFL Champion (1951)
- NFL Receiving Yards Leader (1951)
- NFL Receiving Touchdowns Leader (1951)
- Pro Bowl Selection (3 times)
- All-Pro Selection (2 times)
- Named to the NFL All-1950s Team
NFL Records
- Most yards per game in a season (1951)
- Held NFL single-season record for receiving yards (1,495)
- First player to record over 1,400 receiving yards in a season
- Delivered one of the most historic deep-threat seasons in NFL history
- Widely regarded for revolutionizing the wide receiver position with speed
NFL Teams
As a player:
Chicago Rockets (1946–1948)
Los Angeles Rams (1949–1957)
As an administrator:
Los Angeles Rams (1960–1969)
Wisconsin (1969–1987)
NHL Draft:
1945: 1st round, 5th overall
Los Angeles Rams
Number Worn:
80, 40
NFL Stats
Seasons:
12 (1946–1957)
Games Played:
127
Receptions:
387
Receiving Yards:
7,029
Receiving Touchdowns:
60
Rushing Attempts:
207
Rushing Yards:
687
Rushing Touchdowns:
3
Elvin Bethea
Inducted:
2003
Player Stats
6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
260 lb (118 kg)
Born:
March 1, 1946
Trenton, New Jersey, U.S.
Position:
Defensive end
College:
North Carolina A&T (1964–1967)
Elvin Bethea is a Hall of Fame defensive end who spent his entire 16-season NFL career with the Houston Oilers (1968–1983). Renowned for his durability and dominance, he played in 210 games, including a streak of 135 consecutive appearances.
Bethea amassed 105 unofficial sacks, leading the team in this category six times. His standout season came in 1973 with 16 sacks, a franchise record. He earned eight Pro Bowl selections and was a two-time Second-team All-Pro.
Upon retirement, Bethea held franchise records for most seasons, games played, and sacks. His No. 65 jersey was retired by the Oilers, and he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2003.
Bethea's Awards and Honors
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1975, 1979)
- 8× Pro Bowl (1969, 1971–1975, 1978, 1979)
- Titans/Oilers Ring of Honor
- Tennessee Titans No. 65 retired
- Texas Sports Hall of Fame
- North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame
NFL Records
- Most Games Played in Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans Franchise History (at retirement): 210 games
- Most Sacks in Houston Oilers History (unofficial): 105
- Most Sacks in a Single Season for Oilers (Franchise Record): 16 in 1973
- Most Consecutive Games Played by a Defensive Lineman (Franchise Record at retirement): 135
- First Defensive Lineman from an HBCU Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame
- One of the First Oilers Players to Have His Jersey Retired (No. 65)
NFL Teams
Houston Oilers (1968–1983)
NFL Draft:
1968: 3rd round, 77th pick
Houston Oilers
Number Worn:
65
NFL Records
Seasons:
16
Games Played:
210
Games Started:
181
Sacks: Estimated
105.0
Fumble Recoveries:
16
Total Tackles:
691
Defensive touchdowns:
1
Fumble Yards:
42
Emlen Tunnell
Inducted:
1967
Emlen Tunnell was one of the most influential defensive backs in NFL history and a groundbreaking figure in professional football. Joining the New York Giants in 1948, he became the first African American player in franchise history and quickly emerged as a dominant force in the secondary. Known for his exceptional instincts, ball skills, and reliability, Tunnell recorded an incredible 79 career interceptions, a mark that stood as an NFL record for years.
He also excelled as a punt and kick returner, giving his teams consistent field position advantages. After a decade with the Giants, he played four seasons with the Green Bay Packers, contributing veteran leadership and steady performance. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1967, Tunnell was the first African American player ever enshrined. His impact on defense, special teams, and NFL integration leaves a lasting legacy that continues to influence the game.
Tunnell's Awards and Honors
- 2× NFL champion (1956, 1961)
- 6× First-team All-Pro (1949, 1951, 1952, 1954–1956)
- 9× Pro Bowl (1950–1957, 1959)
- 2× NFL punt return yards leader (1951, 1952)
- NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
NFL Records
- First African American player inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame
- Former NFL record holder for career interceptions (79)
- One of the league’s most productive return specialists
- Key defensive leader for Giants’ 1956 championship team
NFL Teams
New York Giants (1948–1958)
Green Bay Packers (1959–1961)
Number Worn:
45
NFL Stats
Seasons:
14 (1948–1961)
Games Played:
167
Game Started:
137
Interceptions:
79
Interception yards:
1,282
Fumble recoveries:
16
Defensive touchdowns:
4
Punt return yards:
2,209
Punt return touchdowns:
5
Kickoff return yards:
1,215
Kickoff return touchdowns:
1
Emmitt Smith
Inducted:
2010
Player Stats
5 ft 9 in (1.75 m)
221 lb (100 kg)
Born:
May 15, 1969
Pensacola, Florida, U.S.
Position:
Running back
College:
Florida (1987–1989)
Emmitt Smith is the NFL’s all-time leading rusher and one of the most durable and productive running backs in league history. Drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 1990, Smith became the centerpiece of a dynasty that won three Super Bowls in the 1990s. Known for his vision, balance, and relentless work ethic, he consistently gained tough yards and delivered in crucial moments, becoming a reliable offensive weapon.
Smith earned eight Pro Bowl selections and four First-Team All-Pro honors during his 15-season career, and he led the league in rushing four times. His combination of skill, consistency, and leadership helped the Cowboys dominate their era. Smith finished his career with 18,355 rushing yards and 164 rushing touchdowns, records that remain benchmarks in the NFL.
Emmitt Smith was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010, solidifying his legacy as one of the game’s greatest running backs.
Smith's Awards and Honors
- 3× Super Bowl champion (XXVII, XXVIII, XXX)
- Super Bowl MVP (XXVIII)
- 4× First-team All-Pro (1992–1995)
- Second-team All-Pro (1991)
- 8× Pro Bowl (1990–1995, 1998, 1999)
- 4× NFL rushing yards leader (1991–1993, 1995)
- 3× NFL rushing touchdowns leader (1992, 1994, 1995)
NFL Records
- NFL Most Valuable Player (1993)
- NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (1990)
- NFL scoring leader (1995)
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- Only player to lead league in rushing in three different decades
NFL Teams
Dallas Cowboys (1990–2002)
Arizona Cardinals (2003–2004)
NFL Draft:
1990: 1st round, 17th overall pick
Dallas Cowboys
Number Worn:
22
NFL Stats
Seasons:
15 (1990-2004)
Game Played:
226
Game Started:
219
Rushing yards:
18,355
Rushing average:
4.2
Rushing touchdowns:
164
Receptions:
515
Receiving yards:
3,224
Receiving touchdowns:
11
Emmitt Thomas
Inducted:
2008
Player Stats
6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
192 lb (87 kg)
Born:
June 3, 1943
Angleton, Texas, U.S.
Position:
Cornerback
College:
Bishop
Emmitt Thomas was one of the most dependable and instinctive defensive backs of the Super Bowl era, building a standout career with the Kansas City Chiefs. Undrafted in 1966, he quickly proved his value with smart play, great anticipation, and a knack for finding the football. Thomas became a key figure in the Chiefs’ dominant defense, helping the team win Super Bowl IV.
His best season came in 1974, when he led the NFL with 12 interceptions—one of the highest single-season totals in league history. Thomas retired as Kansas City’s all-time leader in interceptions and later transitioned into a long and respected coaching career, winning two Super Bowls as an assistant. His football knowledge, leadership, and consistency earned him a lasting place in league history.
Emmitt Thomas was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2008.
Thomas' Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (IV)
- AFL champion (1966)
- 2× First-team All-Pro (1974, 1975)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1969, 1971)
- 5× Pro Bowl (1968, 1971, 1972, 1974, 1975)
- NFL interceptions leader (1974)
- AFL interceptions leader (1969)
NFL Records
- Led NFL in interceptions (1974, 12 INTs)
- Chiefs’ all-time leader in interceptions
- One of only a few players with 50+ career interceptions
NFL Teams
Kansas City Chiefs (1966–1978)
Eric Allen
Inducted:
2025
Player Stats
Stats:
5 ft 10 in (1.78 m)
190 lb (86 kg)
Born:
November 22, 1965
San Diego, California, U.S.
Position:
Cornerback
College:
Arizona State (1984–1987)
Eric Allen was one of the most consistent and underrated cornerbacks in NFL history. Drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round of the 1988 NFL Draft, Allen quickly established himself as a dominant defensive back.
He played 14 seasons in the league, suiting up for the Eagles, New Orleans Saints, and Oakland Raiders. Known for his exceptional ball skills, quick reflexes, and ability to read quarterbacks, Allen recorded 54 career interceptions, returning eight for touchdowns.
During his career, Allen was a six-time Pro Bowler and a three-time All-Pro selection. He was an integral part of the Eagles' feared "Gang Green" defense in the late 1980s and early 1990s. His ability to shut down elite receivers and make big plays in crucial moments solidified his reputation as one of the best defensive backs of his era.
Allen's Awards and Honors
- 6× Pro Bowl Selection (1989, 1991–1995)
- 3× First-Team All-Pro (1989, 1991, 1993)
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- 54 Career Interceptions
- 8 Interceptions Returned for Touchdowns
- 830 Interception Return Yards
- 5 Fumble Recoveries
- Played in 214 Career Games
NFL Records
- First and Only Player in NFL History with a 94-Yard Interception Return for a Touchdown Twice
- Member of the Eagles’ Legendary "Gang Green" Defense
- Played in 216 Career Games (Most among cornerbacks of his era)
NFL Teams
Philadelphia Eagles (1988–1994)
New Orleans Saints (1995–1997)
Oakland Raiders (1998–2001)
NFL draft:
1988: 2nd round, 30th pick
Philadelphia Eagles
Numbers Worn:
21
NFL Stats
Seasons:
14
Games Played:
216
Total tackles:
787
Interceptions:
54
Passes Defended:
120
Interceptions Return Yards:
826
Return Touchdowns:
8
Forced Fumbles:
5
Pro Bowls:
6
Eric Dickerson
Inducted:
1999
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
220 lb (100 kg)
Born:
September 2, 1960
Sealy, Texas, U.S.
Position:
Running back
College:
SMU (1979–1982)
Eric Dickerson was a record-breaking, smooth-striding force who dominated NFL backfields throughout the 1980s. Drafted second overall by the Los Angeles Rams in 1983, Dickerson burst onto the scene with a rookie-record 1,808 rushing yards and followed it up with a still-standing NFL single-season record of 2,105 yards in 1984.
Known for his upright running style, long strides, and trademark goggles, Dickerson made running look effortless. He led the league in rushing four times and was a six-time Pro Bowler during his 11-year career with the Rams, Colts, Raiders, and Falcons. He finished with 13,259 rushing yards and 90 total touchdowns, often carrying entire offenses on his back.
Dickerson was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1999 and remains one of the most naturally gifted and productive running backs in NFL history.
Dickerson's Awards and Honors
- 6× Pro Bowl selection (1983–1986, 1987, 1989)
- 5× First-Team All-Pro (1983–1986, 1987)
- 4× NFL rushing yards leader (1983, 1984, 1986, 1988)
- Los Angeles Rams No. 29 retired
- Named to NFL 1980s All-Decade Team and NFL 100 All-Time Team
NFL Records
- Most rushing yards in a season: 2,105
- Most rushing yards in a season by a rookie: 1,808
- Most rushing yards in a playoff game: 248
- NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1986)
- NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (1983)
- NFL rushing touchdowns co-leader (1984)
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
NFL Teams
Los Angeles Rams (1983–1987)
Indianapolis Colts (1987–1991)
Los Angeles Raiders (1992)
Atlanta Falcons (1993)
NFL Draft:
1983: 1st round, 2nd pick
Los Angeles Rams
Number Worn:
29
NFL Stats
Seasons:
11 (1983–1993)
Games Played:
146
Rushing Yards:
13,259
Rushing Touchdowns:
90
Carries:
2,996
Yards per Carry:
4.4
Receptions:
281
Receiving Yards:
2,137
Receiving Touchdowns:
6
Total Yards from Scrimmage:
15,396
Total Touchdowns:
96
Ernie Nevers
Inducted:
1963
Stats
6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
204 lb (93 kg)
Born:
June 11, 1902
Willow River, Minnesota, U.S.
Died:
May 3, 1976
Greenbrae, California, U.S.
Position:
Fullback
Coach
College:
Stanford (1923–1925)
Ernie Nevers was one of the earliest legends of professional football — a complete athlete who dominated the game in every phase. Playing for the Duluth Eskimos (1926–1927) and Chicago Cardinals (1929–1931), Nevers was a powerhouse fullback, kicker, and defensive standout whose endurance and toughness became the stuff of football folklore. His most famous performance came in 1929, when he scored 40 points (six touchdowns and four extra points) in a single game — a record that still stands today.
A true iron man, Nevers often played every minute of games, excelling as both a runner and tackler. He was named to the NFL’s 1920s All-Decade Team and is remembered as one of the sport’s first great all-around players. Known for his unmatched work ethic and competitive fire, Nevers embodied football’s rugged early era. Ernie Nevers was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963, as part of the Hall’s inaugural class of legends.
Nevers' Awards and Honors
- 2× NFL Champion (1948, 1949)
- NFL Coach of the Year (1949)
- Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame
- NFL 1940s All-Decade Team (Coach)
Notable Achievements
- Only coach to win consecutive championship shutouts (1948–1949)
- Pioneer of modern defensive formations
- Built the Eagles into a postwar NFL powerhouse
NFL Teams
As Player-
Duluth Eskimos (1927)
Chicago Cardinals (1930–1931)
As Coach:
Duluth Eskimos (1927)
Chicago Cardinals (1930–1931, 1939)
Lafayette (1936)
Chicago Rockets (1946)
Number Worn:
4, 11, 44
NFL Stats
Seasons:
5 (1926–1931)
Games Played:
54
Games Started:
49
Rushing touchdowns:
38
Points scored:
301
Coaching Records:
NFL: 12–27–2 (.317)
College: 1–8 (.111)
Ernie Stautner
Inducted:
1969
Player Stats
6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
230 lb (104 kg)
Born:
April 20, 1925
Prienzing near Cham, Bavaria, Germany
Died:
February 16, 2006
Carbondale, Colorado, U.S.
Position:
Defensive tackle
College:
Boston College
Ernie Stautner was the heartbeat of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ defense during the 1950s, known for his unmatched toughness, strength, and relentless motor. Playing his entire 14-year career with the Steelers from 1950 to 1963, Stautner lined up at both defensive tackle and defensive end, excelling despite often facing constant double-teams. His durability was remarkable—he missed only six games in his entire career.
Stautner earned nine Pro Bowl selections and was named First-Team All-Pro four times, becoming one of the most respected defensive players of his era. Although the Steelers were not championship contenders during much of his career, his dominance stood out leaguewide. Pittsburgh later honored him by retiring his No. 70 jersey, the first number the franchise ever retired.
Ernie Stautner was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1969, recognizing him as one of the toughest and most impactful defenders in NFL history.
Stautner's Awards and Honors
- 2× Super Bowl champion (VI, XII)
- 4× First-team All-Pro (1955, 1956, 1958, 1959)
- 5× Second-team All-Pro (1952, 1953, 1954, 1957, 1961)
- 9× Pro Bowl (1952, 1953, 1955–1961)
- NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
- NFL Best Lineman Award (1957)
Notable Achievements
- First jersey ever retired by the Steelers
- One of the most durable linemen of his era (missed only six games)
- Key figure in Steelers defensive identity during the 1950s
NFL Teams
Pittsburgh Steelers (1950–1963)
NFL Draft:
1950: 2nd round, 22nd overall pick
Pittsburgh Steelers
Number Worn:
63, 70
NFL Stats
Seasons:
14 (1950-1963)
Games Played:
172
Game Started:
143
Fumble recoveries:
23
Safeties:
3
Interceptions:
2
Super Bowl champion:
2 (VI, XII)
Pro Bowl:
9 (1952, 1953, 1955–1961)
Floyd Little
Inducted:
2010
Player Stats
5 ft 10 in (1.78 m)
Weight 196 lb
Born:
July 4, 1942
New Haven, Connecticut, U.S.
Died:
January 1, 2021
Henderson, Nevada, U.S.
Position:
Halfback/Running back
College:
Syracuse (1964–1966)
Floyd Little, known as “The Franchise,” was the driving force behind the Denver Broncos during the late 1960s and early 1970s. A versatile and determined running back, he brought credibility and excitement to a young franchise, helping establish Denver as a respected NFL team. Little was a complete back — equally effective running, catching, and returning kicks — and led the league in rushing in 1971.
Despite playing on teams that often struggled, he consistently stood out for his effort, leadership, and production, finishing his career with over 12,000 all-purpose yards and 54 touchdowns. His work ethic and loyalty to Denver made him a fan favorite and a symbol of perseverance. A five-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro, Little’s influence extended beyond statistics; he was the heart of the Broncos during their formative years.
Little's Awards and Honors
- First-team All-Pro (1969)
- 5× Pro Bowl (1968–1971, 1973)
- NFL rushing yards leader (1971)
- NFL rushing touchdowns co-leader (1973)
- 3× First-team All-American (1964–1966)
- 3× First-team All-East (1964–1966)
NFL Records
- First Denver Broncos player inducted into the Hall of Fame
- Led NFL in all-purpose yards (1969, 1973)
- Known as “The Franchise” for saving Broncos’ early existence
NFL Teams
Denver Broncos (1967–1975)
NFL Draft:
1967: 1st round, 6th overall pick
Denver Broncos
Number Worn:
44
NFL Stats
Seasons:
9 (1967–1975)
Games Played:
117
Game Started:
105
Rushing yards:
6,323
Rushing average:
3.9
Rushing touchdowns:
43
Receptions:
215
Receiving yards:
2,418
Receiving touchdowns:
9
All-Purpose Yards:
12,173
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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. 🏈✨