Charles (Chuck) Philip Bednarik (born May 1, 1925 in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania) is a former American football player, best remembered as a devastating tackler for the Philadelphia Eagles of the NFL from the late 1940s to the early 1960s. He is a member of Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Bednarik began playing football as a boy in his hometown in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. After graduating from Liberty High School in Bethlehem, Bednarik entered the United States Air Force and served in Germany. He attended the University of Pennsylvania, where he was an All American. He also was seventh in Heisman Trophy voting in 1948 and won the Maxwell Award that year.

Upon graduation, Bednarik was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles as the first pick in the 1949 entry draft. He starred as both a center and linebacker for the club. He was a member of NFL Championship teams in 1949 and 1960. He is best remembered as a devistating tackler. In 1960, he sent Frank Gifford of the New York Giants into retirement with a hit.

In 14 seasons, Bednarik missed just three games. He was named all-pro eight times, and was the last player to play both offense and defense on a regular basis. Additionally, Bednarik kicked off for the Eagles for many years.

Bednarik retired in 1962. He was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio in 1967.

See also

Chuck Bednarik Award