This week in Southeast Kentucky history.
George McAfee born March 13, 1918, known for football
George McAfee was born on March 13, 1918, in Corbin, Kentucky. He moved to Ironton, Ohio, where he played high school football. He later played at Duke University from 1937 to 1939. In college, he led his team in rushing, receiving, scoring, and returns. He earned All-America honors in 1939. He was traded to the Chicago Bears, where he played most of his NFL career. He helped the Bears win three NFL championships. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1944. He returned to the Bears in 1945 and played until 1950. He retired with 39 total touchdowns. His career punt return average remains among the highest in league history. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1966. McAfee’s football path began in Corbin. That connection remains part of the city’s sports history. He died in 2009.