Christian G. Hanburger was an 18th Round draft choice of the Redskins in 1965. He was the 245TH player chosen that year. Hanburger played right away and was in the Pro Bowl by his second year in the league. He would then begin a string of Pro Bowl appearances until 1969. He then resumed that string in 1972 until 1976. Sacks and tackles were not recorded in those days, but Hanburger was a play maker. He is considered one of the best of his era. He was known for his blitzing ability and pass coverage. Ever the complete player, he returned 3 fumbles for touchdowns in his career to go with 2 on interceptions. In 1972, Hanburger captained the Over The Hill gangs defense to a Super Bowl appearance. Hanburger was known not only for good speed, but his exceptional quickness. He had the innate ability to diagnose a play before the ball was hiked. He often would cover the other teams tight end and peel off to knock passes down meant for wide receivers. Coach George Allen liked to have a safety first defense, leaving the rest to Hanburger and his fellow linebackers.
Hanburgers nine Pro Bowl appearances are still the most by any player in the entire history of the Washington Redskins. There is NO DOUBT that Chris Hanburger SHOULD BE in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
IF you agree with me, then help me wake up the Senior Committee members by e-mailing them, along with signing this petition, and DEMANDING that CHRIS HANBURGER be put into the Hall of Fame. If we all do it, maybe they will stop ignoring the facts!
imiller@sportsxchange.com
john.mcclain@chron.com
epope@herald.com
dgoldberg@ap.org
rgosselin@dallasnews.com
jerry.magee@uniontrib.com
len.shapiro@washingtonpost.com
Chris Hanburger
Washington Redskins
Linebacker
6'2" 220
1965 - 1978
14 Seasons
187 Games Played
19 Interceptions
5 Touchdowns
9 Pro Bowls