Chicago Bears: Top 25 players in franchise history
By Ryan Heckman
15. LB Bill George
Bill George played so long ago that it’s even difficult to find rights to photos of him, but make no mistake, his game was anything but ancient.
George was drafted by the Bears in 1951 where he was taken in the second round out of Wake Forest. Playing 14 years in Chicago, George went down as one of the greatest linebackers the league had ever seen.
Playing in an era when they had yet to track total tackles, George surely had his fair share. He also compiled 19 fumble recoveries and 18 career interceptions. In 1954, George became the first linebacker in history to line up in a true 4-3 fashion and was credited with inventing the scheme.
By doing so, he became the original middle linebacker — that’s quite an historic accomplishment to be remembered for.
Some fans may not know this, but George not only played linebacker but also filled in at kicker during the 1954 campaign. In fact, he wasn’t too shabby. George kicked four field goals and 13 PATs that year.
The 9-time Pro Bowler and 8-time All-Pro First Team selection retired in 1966 after his only season not spent in the navy and orange; George played for the Rams that year.
On top of the aforementioned accolades, George won an NFL championship, had his jersey number retired and cemented his impact on the game of football forever.