Hugh McElhenny was a member of Pro Football Hall of Fame and rose to prominence in 1950s as a halfback. The Hall of Fame announced Thursday that McElhenny had died on June 17, at the age of 93.
McElhenny, of natural causes, died at his Nevada home, according to the Hall of Fame.
McElheny was known for his long strides with high-knee propulsion. In a 13-year-long career, McElheny ran for 5,281 yard and 38 touchdowns. This included stops with The NFL. Minnesota Vikings, New York Giants Detroit Lions. However, it was his nine-year stint with the San Francisco 49ers This helped “Hurryin' Hugh” to become a football superstar.
The 49ers used a traditional T formation and the “Million Dollar Backfield”, which included fullback Joe Perry and quarterback Y.A. McElhenny and Tittle were joined by John Henry Johnson, halfback, and Tittle, who together had a record-breaking 916 yards and eight touchdowns in the ground.
Jim Porter, president of Pro Football Hall of Fame, stated that Hugh McElhenny was an offensive threat — running, passing receiving, and as a kick- and punt returner. “His talent all around, which was obvious to pro-football scouts while Hugh was still a teenager, will be preserved in Canton forever.”
McElhenny played 13 years in the National Football League – 1952-1960 San Francisco 49ers; 1961-62 Minnesota Vikings; 1964 Detroit Lions.
McElhenny, nicknamed “The King”, was inducted into the Hall of Fame's Class of 70. #HOFForever pic.twitter.com/zKW5Tqyiu2
— Pro Football Hall of Fame (@ProFootballHOF) June 23, 2022
McElhenny’s unique style of running stood out during an era in which most runners were more deliberate and smashmouth.
The No. The 49ers selected the No. 9 overall pick in the 1952 NFL Draft. WashingtonMcElhenny was a star on the professional football scene. His first play from scrimmage turned into a touchdown run of 40 yards. McElhenny was also known as “The Kings” and quickly became Tittle's top target out of the backfield. He used his 6-foot-1, 295-pound frame to weave through screen passes and dodge defenses.
McElhenny caught 37 passes for 458 yards, two touchdowns and finished his career with 2,264 receptions for 3,247 yard and 20 scores.
Dr. John York, 49ers cochair, said that the 49ers family was heartbroken to hear about the passing of Hugh McElhenny, one of the NFL's greatest players. Growing up, the 49ers were my favorite team. Many great players were there in the late '50s, '60s. When I decided to invite an alum to every match, my goal was for me to meet the ‘Million Dollar Backfield'. Hugh was the fourth of the four and we remained close friends. Hugh is an important part of 49ers' history.
McElhenny, who hails from Los Angeles, was a five-time All-Pro selection. In addition, he was named to NFL's 1950s All-Decade Team. McElhenny was a first-team All-American for the Huskies in 1951. His No. 49ers retired 39.
McElhenny, who retired after the 1964 season, was one of three players to accumulate more than 11,000 all purpose yards (11,375). McElheny was inducted into Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1970. He is also a member of College Football Hall of Fame.
McElhenny, humbled and emotional, opened his Canton enshrinement ceremony by acknowledging his fellow teammates over the years as well as his rivals.
McElheny said that he wanted to give thanks to the runners who made my runs successful, and to his opponents for making me look good.
McElhenny only played in two postseason NFL playoff games. One was for the 49ers, in 1957. The other was for the Giants, in 1963. He ran for 101 yards and 21 carries. He also caught eight passes that totaled 116 yards, and a touchdown.
