By Darin Mac Speedie was a star before top players were valued by the public, a true gridiron legend whose career was marked by wartime service, league dominance, and a long-overdue trip to Canton. Born exactly a century before his final, definitive football honor, Speedie’s story is one of unwavering talent and delayed recognition. Read on to explore the remarkable life and enduring legacy of this All-Pro receiver.
Football Bio
January 12, 1920 – Odell, Illinois – The great end from Utah, Mac Speedie, was born. The Pro Football Hall of Fame says that Mac Speedie was the Detroit Lions’ 15th round pick in the 1942 NFL Draft, but he enlisted in the Army to serve his country rather than play pro ball, at least at first. After the War, he signed with the AAFC’s Cleveland Browns and led the league in receiving for 3 of the league’s 4 years, also setting AAFC records. He was an All-Pro three times, an All-NFL twice, and an All-AAFC four times. The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined Mac Speedie 100 years after his birth in 2020.
Conclusion:
Mac Speedie’s career perfectly encapsulates the rugged early era of professional football. His commitment to serving his country postponed his pro career, but once he joined the Cleveland Browns, his impact was immediate and historic. Leading the AAFC in receiving multiple times and earning numerous All-League honors, Speedie cemented his legacy as one of the finest ends of his generation, fittingly recognized by the Pro Football Hall of Fame exactly a century after his birth.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments:
- Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee (Class of 2020)
- Drafted by the Detroit Lions (15th round, 1942 NFL Draft)
- All-AAFC four times (All-America Football Conference)
- Led the AAFC in receiving for 3 of the league’s 4 years
- Set multiple AAFC receiving records
- All-Pro three times (NFL)
- All-NFL twice (NFL)
