Paul Hornung

American college football halfback and quarterback who won the 1956 Heisman Trophy at Notre Dame, becoming the only winner from a losing team.

Born in Louisville, Kentucky on December 23, 1935, Paul Vernon Hornung emerged from Flaget High School as one of the most promising multi-sport athletes in the state. His exceptional versatility in football, basketball, and baseball earned him a scholarship to the University of Notre Dame, where he would redefine individual excellence in college football. At Notre Dame from 1954 to 1956, Hornung demonstrated unprecedented versatility as a quarterback, halfback, and placekicker. His defining moment came during his senior season when he captured the 1956 Heisman Trophy despite Notre Dame's disappointing 2-8 record, becoming the only player in history to win the award while playing for a team with a losing record. This achievement highlighted his extraordinary individual talent during a period when the Fighting Irish program was struggling between coaching changes. As a consensus All-American, he showcased remarkable skills across multiple positions, often serving as Notre Dame's primary offensive weapon. Selected first overall by the Green Bay Packers in the 1957 NFL Draft, Hornung became instrumental in the Vince Lombardi era. He won five NFL championships (1961, 1962, 1965, 1966, 1967) and earned NFL Most Valuable Player honors in 1961. His professional career was temporarily interrupted by military service and a gambling suspension, but he remained a key contributor to Green Bay's dynasty throughout the 1960s. His versatility continued in the NFL, where he excelled as a running back and placekicker. Hornung's legacy extends beyond his statistical achievements to his impact on how individual excellence is measured in team sports. His Heisman Trophy victory established a precedent that the award recognizes outstanding individual performance regardless of team success. Inducted into both the College Football Hall of Fame (1985) and Pro Football Hall of Fame (1986), he remains a symbol of versatility and individual brilliance. His career bridged Notre Dame's golden eras and helped establish Green Bay's championship tradition under Lombardi.

Versatile halfback and quarterback known for his running ability and leadership

Notre Dame legend who redefined what it meant to be an individual star on a struggling team

• Heisman Trophy (1956)
• All-American
• Notre Dame legend
• Only Heisman winner on a losing team