Hugh McElhenny was a halfback for NFL teams including the San Francisco 49ers in the 1950s and ‘60s.
- Died: June 17, 2022 (Who else died on June 17?)
- Details of death: Died at his home in Henderson, Nevada at the age of 93.
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Hall of Fame career
McElhenny was an All-American fullback at the University of Washington, where he set school records for rushing and touchdowns. He was chosen by the 49ers in the first round of the 1952 NFL Draft and quickly became a star of the team and the NFL’s Rookie of the Year. Known as “The King,” McElhenny was a speedy and elusive runner. He was a six-time Pro Bowl selection and a member of the team’s famous “Million Dollar Backfield.” After nine seasons with the 49ers, McElhenny joined the newly formed Minnesota Vikings for two seasons, then spent a year each with the New York Giants and Detroit Lions. After his 1964 retirement from his playing career, he worked as a radio commentator for the 49ers. McElhenny’s jersey No. 39 was retired by the 49ers, and he was a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and College Football Hall of Fame.
McElhenny on his legacy
“I think I contributed a great deal, not much maybe on the football field but off the field. I gave so much of my time to my charities, and my wife did, too. We had a lot of fun playing golf, raising money, speaking at various churches and schools, and it was a contribution of many helping us.” —from a 2019 interview for Twin Cities Pioneer Press
Tributes to Hugh McElhenny
Full obituary: The New York Times
