Unearthing Gridiron Legends

1944 NFL Draft unearthed gridiron legends like Otto Graham and Steve Van Buren, who shaped pro football's future.

Ten teams were selected in the 1944 NFL Draft in Philadelphia, with the Boston Yanks picking first. This pivotal event unearthed talents like Otto Graham and Steve Van Buren, who would go on to redefine the sport.

The 1944 season occurred during a transformative time, yet the allure of American pro football remained strong. That year's draft laid the groundwork for future gridiron greatness, shaping destinies and leaving an indelible mark on the sport's history.

The 1944 NFL Draft was held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on April 19, 1944. In this draft, each of the ten NFL teams made 32 selections. The Boston Yanks, a new expansion team, held the first overall pick.

The top ten selections of the 1944 NFL Draft were:

✦ 1. Angelo Bertelli, QB, Boston Yanks

✦ 2. Pat Harder, FB, Chicago Cardinals

✦ 3. Creighton Miller, HB, Brooklyn Tigers

✦ 4. Otto Graham, Back, Detroit Lions

✦ 5. Steve Van Buren, HB, Philadelphia Eagles

✦ 6. Billy Hillenbrand, HB, New York Giants

✦ 7. Merv Pregulman, G, Green Bay Packers

✦ 8. Mike Micka, Back, Washington Redskins

✦ 9. Ray Evans, HB, Chicago Bears

✦ 10. Johnny Podesto, B, Pittsburgh Steelers

This draft featured notable talent, Otto Graham and Steve Van Buren, who were inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Otto Graham (drafted 4th overall by the Detroit Lions) is considered one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. He led the Cleveland Browns to multiple championships in the All-America Football Conference (AAFC) and the NFL. Graham is also a member of the College Football Hall of Fame.

Steve Van Buren (drafted 5th overall by the Philadelphia Eagles) was a dominant halfback known for his powerful running style. He led the NFL in rushing several times and helped the Eagles win back-to-back NFL championships in 1948 and 1949.

While the 1944 draft may not be as widely recognized as later drafts, it produced Hall of Fame-caliber players who significantly impacted the game.

✦ Pro Football Hall of Famers Taken in the 1944 NFL Draft

✦ Otto Graham, quarterback from Northwestern taken 1st round 4th overall by the Detroit Lions.

✦ Steve Van Buren, halfback from LSU taken 1st round 5th overall by the Philadelphia Eagles.

✦ Bob Waterfield, quarterback from UCLA taken 5th round 42nd overall by the Cleveland Rams.

✦ Ed Sprinkle, guard/defensive end from Navy taken undrafted by the Chicago Bears.