July 26, 1934, Roy, New Mexico
“End Zone Tommy”
- A fierce competitor who proved that heart and determination could overcome a small stature.
College Career
Tommy McDonald was a star running back at the University of Oklahoma, where he was part of one of the greatest dynasties in college football history. Under legendary coach Bud Wilkinson, McDonald’s Sooners went undefeated during his three varsity seasons, as a part of a record-setting 47-game winning streak. He was a two-time All-American, and in 1956, he won the Maxwell Award as the nation’s most outstanding college player. Despite his relatively small size, McDonald was a scoring machine, and he finished third in the Heisman Trophy voting.
Road to the Pro Game
Drafted as a running back by the Philadelphia Eagles in the third round of the 1957 NFL Draft, McDonald quickly transitioned to wide receiver, a position that would define his professional career. He played seven seasons with the Eagles, winning the 1960 NFL Championship, the franchise’s last until 2017. He was a dynamic playmaker for the Eagles before being traded to the Dallas Cowboys in 1964. He later played for the Los Angeles Rams, Atlanta Falcons, and Cleveland Browns, showcasing his toughness and passion across multiple teams.
Football Legacy
Tommy McDonald’s legacy is defined by his tenacity and his remarkable ability to find the end zone. He was known for his relentless effort and was the last player in the NFL to play without a facemask, a testament to his grit. Despite being one of the smallest players in the league, he was a giant on the field, with a touchdown-to-reception ratio that remains among the best in history. He retired as a top-five all-time leader in both receiving yards and touchdowns. In his later years, he became a beloved figure and a passionate advocate for the game and his fellow players, regularly attending Hall of Fame induction ceremonies.
Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats
- Pro Football Hall of Fame (1998)
- College Football Hall of Fame (1985)
- NFL Champion (1960)
- Maxwell Award (1956)
- 6x Pro Bowl Selection
- 3x First-Team All-Pro
- Career Receptions: 495
- Career Receiving Yards: 8,410
- Career Receiving Touchdowns: 84
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