Don Hutson was a trailblazer in the NFL, revolutionizing the role of wide receivers. Known for his remarkable athleticism and playmaking ability, Hutson set numerous records and became one of the first superstars of professional football. Below is a detailed look at his NFL stats, records, and career achievements.
Table of Contents
Early Life and Career
Don Hutson was born on January 31, 1913, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. He played college football at the University of Alabama, where his speed and ability to catch the football earned him national attention. In 1935, Hutson joined the Green Bay Packers, where he spent his entire professional career.
Career Overview
Hutson played for the Green Bay Packers (1935-1945), leading the team to three NFL championships and becoming one of the most dominant receivers in the game. He was known for his precision routes and ability to find the end zone, earning him a place in NFL history as one of the league’s most important pioneers.
Don Hutson NFL Seasonal Stats
| Season | Team | Games Played | Receptions | Receiving Yards | Touchdowns | Yards per Reception |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1935 | Green Bay Packers | 10 | 18 | 420 | 6 | 23.3 |
| 1939 | Green Bay Packers | 10 | 34 | 846 | 6 | 24.9 |
| 1941 | Green Bay Packers | 11 | 58 | 738 | 10 | 12.7 |
| 1942 | Green Bay Packers | 11 | 74 | 1,211 | 17 | 16.4 |
| 1945 | Green Bay Packers | 10 | 47 | 834 | 9 | 17.7 |
| Career | Green Bay Packers | 116 | 488 | 7,991 | 99 | 16.4 |
Don Hutson NFL Career Records
Don Hutson was a prolific receiver and established multiple NFL records, some of which stood for decades. Here are a few of his career accomplishments:
| Record | Stat |
|---|---|
| Most career receiving touchdowns (at retirement) | 99 |
| Most receiving yards in a season (1942) | 1,211 |
| Most receptions in a season (1942) | 74 |
| First player to surpass 1,000 receiving yards in a season | 1,211 (1942) |
| Most consecutive seasons leading the NFL in touchdowns | 9 (1936-1944) |
| Most career points scored (at retirement) | 823 |
| Most seasons leading the league in receptions | 8 (1936, 1937, 1939, 1941-1944) |
| Most seasons leading the league in touchdowns | 8 |
Achievements
Don Hutson’s list of achievements is extensive, solidifying his legacy as one of the most influential players in NFL history.
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| NFL Championships | 3x (1936, 1939, 1944) |
| NFL Most Valuable Player | 2x (1941, 1942) |
| First-Team All-Pro Selections | 8x (1938-1945) |
| Pro Football Hall of Fame | Inducted in 1963 |
| NFL 1930s All-Decade Team | Member |
| NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team | Member |
| NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team | Member |
| NFL Receiving Touchdown Leader | 9x (1935-1938, 1940-1944) |
| NFL Scoring Leader | 5x (1940-1944) |
Legacy
Don Hutson was not just a wide receiver; he was a revolutionary figure in football. He transformed the game with his innovative route running and quickness, becoming the first true deep threat in the NFL. His ability to find the end zone and pile up yards after the catch set the stage for the modern passing game.
Hutson’s influence can be seen in the game’s evolution, with many wide receivers adopting techniques and skills that he pioneered during his era.
Don Hutson Career Records and Impact
Hutson’s impact on the NFL goes beyond stats, as he helped the Packers dominate throughout the 1930s and 1940s. His career totals may not seem as large by today’s standards, but during his era, Hutson was far ahead of his peers. He retired holding nearly every significant receiving record, many of which were untouched for decades.
| Career Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Total Receptions | 488 |
| Total Receiving Yards | 7,991 |
| Total Receiving Touchdowns | 99 |
| Career Yards per Reception | 16.4 |
Influence on the Game
Hutson’s playing style greatly influenced how future generations of wide receivers approached the game. His contributions helped shift football from a run-heavy sport to a more balanced offensive system that emphasized passing. He was known for his crisp route running, ability to separate from defenders, and versatility on both offense and defense.
Don Hutson NFL Playoff Records
| Category | Stat |
|---|---|
| NFL Championships Won | 3 |
| Playoff Receptions | 15 |
| Playoff Receiving Yards | 270 |
| Playoff Touchdowns | 5 |
Also Read: Peyton Manning NFL Stats and Records: Seasonal Stats, Career Records, Achievements
Conclusion
Don Hutson was the original NFL superstar wide receiver, establishing records that became benchmarks for future generations. His dominance as a receiver, combined with his scoring prowess, left an indelible mark on the game. Even today, Don Hutson’s name remains synonymous with excellence in football, and his records and achievements will forever be a part of NFL history.
