George McAfee, inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1966, was a prominent figure in American football. Selected as the second overall pick by the Philadelphia Eagles in the 1940 NFL Draft, he went on to play for the Chicago Bears in two separate stints (1940-41; 1945-50).
Over the course of eight seasons, McAfee demonstrated his versatility as a player, recording 234 points, 5,713 combined net yards, and 25 interceptions. In 75 career games, he scored an impressive 39 touchdowns. In 1941, he led the league in rushing yards per attempt average (7.3) and total touchdowns (12) achieved through rushes, receptions, punt returns, kickoff returns, and interception returns.
McAfee's exceptional skills were further exemplified by leading the NFL in punt returns (30) and punt return yards (417) in 1948. He holds the career record for punt return average at an outstanding 12.78 yards. Notably, his career-long rush of 70 yards occurred in 1941.
Acknowledged for his outstanding contributions to the sport, McAfee was named All-NFL in 1941 and had his jersey number (#5) retired by the Chicago Bears. He was also selected to the NFL's 1940s All-Decade Team by the Pro Football Hall of Fame Selection Committee members.
Throughout his career with the Bears, McAfee played a pivotal role in helping the team secure NFL Western Division titles in 1940, 1941, and 1946, as well as NFL championships in 1940 and 1946. One of his notable moments came during the 1940 NFL Championship Game, where he returned an interception 35 yards for a touchdown in Chicago's historic 73-0 victory over Washington.
Amidst his football career, McAfee served in the Navy during World War II from 1942 to 1945, showcasing his dedication to his country. For his remarkable achievements in college football, he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1961 and was later honored with inductions into the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame in 1967 and the Duke Sports Hall of Fame in 1975.
George McAfee, born on March 13, 1918, left a lasting legacy in the world of football. He passed away on March 4, 2009, but his impact on the sport and his contributions to the Chicago Bears' success continue to be remembered and celebrated by football enthusiasts and historians alike.