Steve Van Buren
Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 1965
Position: Halfback
Louisiana State University, 1941-43
Philadelphia Eagles, 1944-51
A native of Honduras, Steve Van Buren was orphaned when he was young and sent to New Orleans. He earned a scholarship at LSU where he played three seasons and earned All-SEC honors. Philadelphia’s No. 1 pick in the 1944 NFL draft, he played eight seasons for the Eagles and was named All-NFL six straight years. He won the NFL rushing title four times, twice rushing for more than 1,000 yards, and recorded a rare “triple crown” in 1945 as he led the league in rushing, scoring and kickoff returns. Van Buren led Philadelphia to three straight division championships and the NFL title in 1948 and 1949.