Chris Hanburger commands the gridiron as a relentless linebacker who anchors the legendary Washington defense for fourteen incredible seasons. Known affectionately as “The Hangman” for his punishing tackles and “The General” for his sharp play-calling, he dominates opponents and executes defensive audibles that pave the way to multiple playoff runs and a historic Super Bowl appearance.
CHRIS HANBURGER
Football Bio
August 13, 1941 – Chris Hanburger, a linebacker who played for the Washington Redskins for 14 seasons, was born.
He is honored at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton with his bronze bust, and he was selected as the first-team All-Pro four times in five seasons during the 1970s, and he played in nine Pro Bowl games.
That’s quite a bit: nine Pro Bowls in 14 seasons, and first-team All-Pro four or five years in one span.
Chris Hanburger cements his legacy as one of the smartest and most punishing defenders in professional football history. He reads opposing offenses with unmatched precision, utilizing his exceptional instincts to disrupt plays at the line of scrimmage. As a true general on the field, Hanburger permanently elevates the standard for outside linebackers and secures his rightful place among the game’s immortals.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- Pro Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 2011 as a senior nominee.
- 9× Pro Bowl Selection: (1966–1969, 1972–1976), holding the record for the most in Washington franchise history.
- 5× First-Team All-Pro: Recognized as the premier outside linebacker of his era (1969, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1976).
- Super Bowl VII Participant: Anchored the George Allen-led defense that won the NFC Championship in 1972.
- Turnover Machine: Recorded 19 career interceptions, recovered 17 fumbles, and scored 5 defensive touchdowns (an NFL record for fumble return touchdowns at the time of his retirement).
- Washington Commanders Ring of Fame: Honored as one of the 80 Greatest Redskins.
- 2× First-Team All-ACC: (1963, 1964) at the University of North Carolina, where he starred at both center and linebacker.
