Chris Hanburger

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

Hanburger's journey began in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, where his father served as an Army colonel. After high school, he enlisted rather than move to Alaska or attend college immediately, serving two years until an eye-socket injury ended his officer aspirations. He then accepted a scholarship at the University of North Carolina, playing center on offense and middle linebacker on defense from 1962 to 1964. There, he blocked for future NFL star Ken Willard and won the Gator Bowl in 1963. Selected by Washington in the 18th round (245th overall) of the 1965 draft, Hanburger started four games as a rookie before becoming a full-time starter in 1966. He thrived under coaches Vince Lombardi and George Allen, the latter of whom relied on him to call defensive signals and execute over 100 audibles. His career included a streak of 135 consecutive starts from 1968 until an appendicitis operation ended it in 1977.

In Their Own Story

The 1972 season marked the pinnacle of Hanburger's impact, as he was named NFC Defensive Player of the Year by the Kansas City Committee of 101. During that regular season, he tallied four interceptions (one returned for a touchdown), two fumble recoveries, and 3.5 sacks. He anchored a defense that held the Dallas Cowboys to just three points in the NFC Championship Game, securing a 26–3 victory despite losing Super Bowl VII to Miami. Hanburger formed an effective tandem with Jack Pardee from 1971 to 1972 before taking over as the sole defensive quarterback after Pardee's retirement. His physical dominance was evident throughout his career, where he recorded 46 sacks, recovered 17 fumbles, and scored five touchdowns—two on interception returns and three off fumble recoveries. Even in his final season finale in 1978, he recorded three sacks against the Los Angeles Rams to cap a remarkable tenure.

Reader's Guide

Hanburger's career offers a masterclass in defensive versatility and leadership. Drafted as an outside linebacker, he quickly established himself as one of the best at his position during his era. Fans should note that while he was selected in the 18th round, he became a full-time starter by his second year. His transition from center to middle linebacker in college prepared him for the complex responsibilities he would later assume in Washington. Under George Allen, Hanburger managed over 100 defensive audibles, showcasing an intelligence that complemented his physical prowess. His consistency was remarkable; aside from 1971, he earned postseason honors every year from 1966 through 1976. He is a member of the Washington Ring of Fame and was named one of the 80 greatest Redskins players. In 2011, his bust by sculptor Scott Myers was unveiled at the Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrinement ceremony.

Did You Know?

• Hanburger earned the nickname 'The Hangman' due to his penchant for clotheslining tackles.
• He served two years in the Army after high school before college football, earning the moniker 'The General'.
• In 1972, he recorded an interception returned for a touchdown and was named NFC Defensive Player of the Year.
• His streak of 135 consecutive starts ended in 1977 following an appendicitis operation.
• He scored five career touchdowns: two on interception returns and three from fumble recoveries.