Paul Warfield Pro Football Hall of Fame

Lore & Background

Warfield was known for his speed, fluid moves, grace, and jumping ability. A consistent big-play threat, 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. After his playing career, he served as a scout and adviser for the Browns for several years.

Reader's Guide

Warfield was a star halfback at Ohio State University, twice named to the all-conference team in the Big Ten and an All-American as a senior. He was selected in the first round of the 1964 NFL draft by the Browns and converted into a wide receiver. After three Pro Bowl appearances with the Browns, he was traded to the 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 was born in Warren, Ohio, and attended Warren G. Harding High School, where he was a star running back and defensive back.
• He set an Ohio high school Class AA state record in the 180-yard hurdles in 1960.
• Warfield was an Olympic prospect in the broad jump before choosing professional football.
• He was traded from the Browns to the Dolphins for the third pick in the 1970 draft, a trade considered one of the most lopsided in NFL history.