Clarke Hinkle

William Clarke Hinkle (April 10, 1909 - November 9, 1988) (FB/LB/K) retired in 1941 as the all-time leading rusher in NFL history with 3,860, surpassing fellow Hall of Famer Cliff Battles’ 3,511 yards at his 1937 retirement. Hinkle was the quintessential back, albeit full, half, or defensive, he could not only run over and around approaching would-be tacklers, but could deliver his own fierce hits. Upon graduation from Bucknell University, Clarke joined the Green Bay Packers in 1932, where he played his entire 10-year career (1932-1941). He frequently matched up against fellow Hall of Famer and opposing superstar, Bronko Nagurski, of the Chicago Bears. Hinkle played Nagurski hard and believed he had to “get to the Bronk before he gets to me.” In 1934, Clarke drove Bronko out of the Bears-Packers game by running over the All-Pro tackle, breaking his nose and fracturing a rib. Hinkle, himself was a four-time All-Pro First Team selection and was named to three Pro Bowls. He helped guide the Packers to NFL Championships in 1936 and 1939. Hinkle finished his career with 35 rushing touchdowns and 9 receiving touchdowns. He amassed 3,860 rushing yards on 1,171 carries and 537 receiving yards on 49 receptions. Clarke Hinkle was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1964 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 1971.