George Trafton Former Notre Dame...

Born on December 6, 1896, in Chicago, Illinois, George Edward "George" Trafton established himself as a dominant force at the center position during the formative years of professional football. His toughness and skill made him a key player for the Chicago Bears and earned him recognition as one of the best linemen of his era.  

✦ College Career

Trafton's football journey included a stint at the University of Notre Dame in 1919, where he played under the legendary coach Knute Rockne. He was part of an undefeated Fighting Irish team recognized as a co-national champion. Although his time at Notre Dame was brief, his talent was evident, and he gained valuable experience under a coaching icon.  

✦ Road to the Pro Game

Trafton began his professional career in 1920 with the Decatur Staleys, a team that would later become the Chicago Bears. He played center for the Staleys during the inaugural season of the American Professional Football Association (APFA), which would eventually become the NFL. Trafton remained with the franchise as it moved to Chicago and became the Chicago Staleys in 1921 and then the Chicago Bears in 1922 (though he coached Northwestern that year before returning to play for the Bears). He was a consistent presence on the Bears' offensive line for many years.  

✦ Football Legacy

George Trafton is remembered as a durable and formidable center who played a crucial role in the Chicago Bears' early success. He was known for his toughness and was considered one of the roughest players in the league. Despite his reputation as a fierce competitor, Trafton was also recognized for his skill and football intelligence. He is credited with being one of the first centers to snap the ball with one hand and was also known for his defensive capabilities.

Trafton played a significant part in the Bears winning NFL championships in 1921 and 1932. His consistent high level of play and longevity in the early NFL cemented his legacy as a key figure in the league's formative years. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1964 and was named to the NFL's All-Decade Team of the 1920s.  

✦ Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

✦ NFL Champion (1921, 1932)  

✦ Two-time First-team All-Pro (1920, 1924)  

✦ Second-team All-Pro (1927)  

✦ NFL 1920s All-Decade Team

✦ Played 149 career games  

✦ Started 100 career games  

✦ Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (1964)