Tommy McDonald

Witness the spectacular journey of Tommy McDonald, the small-statured Oklahoma Sooner who became a Pro Football Hall of Fame receiver, defying expectations with his speed and tenacity.

Born July 26, 1934, in Roy, New Mexico.  

College Career

Tommy McDonald was a standout halfback for the Oklahoma Sooners under legendary coach Bud Wilkinson from 1954 to 1956. Despite his relatively small stature (5'9", 178 lbs), McDonald was a dynamic and electrifying player. During his three seasons of varsity play, the Sooners remarkably never lost a game, contributing to their NCAA record 47-game winning streak and securing two National Championships (1955, 1956). A two-time All-American (1955, 1956) and two-time All-Conference selection, McDonald became the first Sooner to score a touchdown in every game of the 1955 season. In 1956, he won the prestigious Maxwell Award as the nation's best all-around player and finished third in the Heisman Trophy voting. His versatility as a runner and passer made him a key component of Oklahoma's dominant offense. In 1985, he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.  

Road to the Pro Game

Despite concerns about his size, McDonald's exceptional college production led the Philadelphia Eagles to select him in the third round (31st overall) of the 1957 NFL Draft. Initially used as a kickoff and punt return specialist, he transitioned to wide receiver during his rookie season and quickly became a favorite target. McDonald played seven seasons with the Eagles (1957-1963), helping them win the 1960 NFL Championship, where he scored a 35-yard touchdown. He later played for the Dallas Cowboys (1964), Los Angeles Rams (1965-1966), Atlanta Falcons (1967), and Cleveland Browns (1968), showcasing his enduring talent and toughness.  

Football Legacy

Tommy McDonald defied expectations throughout his career, proving that heart and talent could overcome size limitations. Known for his incredible speed, toughness, and ability to make big plays, he was a consistent threat as a deep receiver. McDonald's career spanned 12 seasons, during which he consistently ranked among the league's best in receiving. He was a key player on the Eagles' championship-winning team and left a lasting impact on every franchise he played for. His electrifying style of play and remarkable achievements earned him enshrinement into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998. He is remembered as one of the most exciting and productive receivers of his era.  

Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats:

✦ NFL Champion (1960)  

✦ 2-time First-team All-Pro (1959, 1960)  

✦ 3-time Second-team All-Pro (1959, 1961, 1962)  

✦ 6-time Pro Bowl selection (1958-1962, 1965)  

✦ NFL Receiving Yards Leader (1961)

✦ 2-time NFL Receiving Touchdowns Leader (1958, 1961)

✦ Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame

✦ Philadelphia Eagles 75th Anniversary Team

✦ Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame  

✦ College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1985)  

✦ Maxwell Award (1956)  

✦ Consensus All-American (1956)  

✦ Career NFL Stats (152 games): 495 Receptions, 8,410 Receiving Yards, 17.0 Yards per Reception, 84 Receiving Touchdowns, 73 Punt Returns for 404 yards and 1 TD, 51 Kickoff Returns for 1,055 yards.  

Sources and related content
Pro Football Reference.com
ProFOotballHOF.com
Wikipedia.com