Top 10 Oldest Living NFL Hall of Famers

By Jason Bolton January 24, 2024 07:53

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.