Paul Warfield Hall of Fame

Lore & Background

Warfield was known for his speed, fluid moves, grace, and jumping ability. His 20.1 average yards per reception is the highest in NFL history among players with at least 300 receptions. He played in seven championship games—four NFL Championship Games with the Browns and three Super Bowls with the Dolphins—and earned victories in the 1964 NFL Championship Game, Super Bowl VII, and Super Bowl VIII.

In Their Own Story

The sun beat down on Balboa Stadium during a crisp autumn afternoon in 1967. John Hadl dropped back, scanning the field before spotting Paul Warfield breaking free on a deep post route. The Chargers defense held firm, but nothing could stop Warfield's long strides. He caught the ball near the sideline, his eyes locked on the end zone as defenders scrambled to catch him. With a burst of speed that left them in his dust, he crossed the goal line, raising his arms in triumph as the crowd erupted—a moment that perfectly encapsulated the magic of the Chargers' offensive explosion.

Reader's Guide

Warfield played college football as a halfback for the Ohio State Buckeyes, earning All-American honors in 1963. He was selected in the first round of the 1964 NFL draft by the Cleveland Browns and converted to wide receiver. After three Pro Bowl appearances with the Browns, he was traded to the Miami Dolphins, with whom he made another five Pro Bowl appearances. He spent one season in the WFL with the Memphis Southmen before returning to the Browns for his final two seasons.

Did You Know?

• Warfield's 20.1 average yards per reception is the highest in NFL history among players with at least 300 receptions.
• He played in seven championship games in his professional career, winning the 1964 NFL Championship Game, Super Bowl VII, and Super Bowl VIII.
• Warfield was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1983.