Top 10 Oldest Living NFL Hall of Famers

These ten individuals represent a remarkable group of legendary NFL Hall of Famers, each contributing to the rich history and culture of the sport. Their longevity and enduring impact serve as a testament to their exceptional athletic abilities and enduring legacy within the NFL.

1. Elroy "Crazy Legs" Hirsch

  • Born: June 17, 1923
  • Current Age (as of February 2021): 98 years, 8 months, 2 days
  • Years Active in the NFL: 1946 – 1957 (12 seasons)
  • Team(s): Chicago Rockets (1946); Los Angeles Rams (1949 – 1957)
  • Position(s): Halfback, Wide Receiver
  • Accomplishments: Hirsch was known for his exceptional speed and agility, earning the nickname "Crazy Legs." He was a key player for the Los Angeles Rams and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1968. Hirsch's influence extended beyond his playing career, as he served as the athletic director at the University of Wisconsin from 1969 to 1987.

2. Bill McColl

  • Born: January 15, 1922
  • Current Age (as of February 2021): 100 years, 1 month, 4 days
  • Years Active in the NFL: 1947 – 1954 (8 seasons)
  • Team(s): Chicago Bears (1947 – 1953)
  • Position(s): End
  • Accomplishments: Notably, Bill McColl continued his education at the University of Chicago Medical School while playing for the Chicago Bears. He became the first professional football player to earn a medical degree while actively playing in the NFL.

3. Cecil Souders

  • Born: January 3, 1921
  • Current Age (as of February 2021): 100 years, 1 month, 20 days
  • Years Active in the NFL: 1947 – 1949 (3 seasons)
  • Team(s): Detroit Lions (1947 – 1949)
  • Position(s): End, Tackle
  • Accomplishments: Souders, a three-time All-American for Ohio State University, served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He is celebrated for his achievements both on and off the field, exemplifying heroism during his time in the military and his storied football career.

4. Lenny Moore

  • Born: November 25, 1933
  • Current Age (as of February 2021): 87 years, 2 months, 29 days
  • Years Active in the NFL: 1956 – 1967 (12 seasons)
  • Team(s): Baltimore Colts (1956 – 1967)
  • Position(s): Halfback
  • Accomplishments: Lenny Moore played a pivotal role for the Baltimore Colts, showcasing exceptional speed and skill as a runner and receiver. Despite facing a knee injury in 1962, he made an impressive comeback and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1975.

5. Raymond Berry

  • Born: February 27, 1933
  • Current Age (as of February 2021): 87 years, 11 months, 27 days
  • Years Active in the NFL: 1955 – 1967 (13 seasons)
  • Team(s): Baltimore Colts (1955 – 1967)
  • Position(s): Split End (Wide Receiver)
  • Accomplishments: Berry, known for his hard work and dedication, overcame physical challenges to become one of the best wide receivers of his era. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1973 and later had a successful coaching career.

6. Joe Schmidt

  • Born: January 19, 1932
  • Current Age (as of February 2021): 89 years, 1 month, 4 days
  • Years Active in the NFL: 1953 – 1965 (13 seasons)
  • Team(s): Detroit Lions (1953 – 1965)
  • Position(s): Linebacker
  • Accomplishments: Joe Schmidt, a player and coach for the Detroit Lions, left a lasting impact on the NFL. His contributions on and off the field solidified his status as a revered figure in football history.

7. Ken Casanega

  • Born: February 23, 1926
  • Current Age (as of February 2021): 95 years, 11 months, 0 days
  • Years Active in the NFL: 1946, 1948 (2 seasons)
  • Team(s): San Francisco 49ers (1946, 1948)
  • Position(s): Quarterback
  • Accomplishments: Casanega, who served in the military during World War II, joined the San Francisco 49ers in 1946, contributing to the team's early success. His impact on the field and his service to his country exemplify his remarkable legacy.

8. Hugh McElhenny

  • Born: December 31, 1928
  • Current Age (as of February 2021): 92 years, 1 month, 23 days
  • Years Active in the NFL: 1952 – 1964 (13 seasons)
  • Team(s): San Francisco 49ers (1952 – 1960); Minnesota Vikings (1961 – 1962); New York Giants (1963); Detroit Lions (1964)
  • Position(s): Halfback
  • Accomplishments: Nicknamed "The King," McElhenny was celebrated for his electrifying running style and elusive moves. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the College Football Hall of Fame, leaving a significant mark on the sport.

9. Bud Grant

  • Born: May 20, 1927
  • Current Age (as of February 2021): 93 years, 9 months, 3 days
  • Years Active in the NFL: 1951 – 1956 (2 seasons)
  • Team(s): Philadelphia Eagles (1951 – 1952)
  • Position(s): Wide Receiver, Defensive End
  • Accomplishments: Bud Grant, known for his versatility as a player, later made a name for himself as a successful coach, leading the Minnesota Vikings to multiple Super Bowl appearances.

10. Charley Trippi

  • Born: December 14, 1921
  • Current Age (as of February 2021): 99 years, 2 months, 8 days
  • Years Active in the NFL: 1947 – 1955 (9 seasons)
  • Team(s): Chicago Cardinals (1947 – 1955)
  • Position(s): Halfback, Quarterback
  • Accomplishments: As the oldest living member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Trippi was a standout player for the Chicago Cardinals and contributed significantly to the team's success during his illustrious career.

These ten individuals represent a remarkable group of legendary NFL Hall of Famers, each contributing to the rich history and culture of the sport. Their longevity and enduring impact serve as a testament to their exceptional athletic abilities and enduring legacy within the NFL.

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