Просмотр кода страницы Английская Википедия:Hugh McElhenny

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{{Short description|American football player (1928–2022)}}
{{Redirect|McElhenny|other people with similar names|McElhenney|and|McIlhenny}}
{{Good article}}
{{Use American English|date=June 2022}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=June 2022}}
{{Infobox NFL biography
|image= Hugh McElhenny 1955 Bowman.jpg
|image_size = 250px
|caption=McElhenny in 1955
|position=[[Halfback (American football)|Halfback]]
|number=39
|birth_date={{Birth date|1928|12|31}}
|birth_place=[[Los Angeles|Los Angeles, California]], U.S.
|death_date={{Death date and age|2022|6|17|1928|12|31}}
|death_place=[[Henderson, Nevada]], U.S.
|height_ft=6
|height_in=1
|weight_lbs=195
|draftyear=1952
|draftround=1
|draftpick=9
|high_school=[[Washington Preparatory High School|Washington]] (Los Angeles)
|college= {{ubl|[[Compton College|Compton JC]] (1948)|[[Washington Huskies football|Washington]] (1949–1951)}}
|teams=
* [[San Francisco 49ers]] ({{NFL Year|1952|1960}})
* [[Minnesota Vikings]] ({{NFL Year|1961|1962}})
* [[New York Giants]] ({{NFL Year|1963}})
* [[Detroit Lions]] ({{NFL Year|1964}})
|highlights=
* 5× First-team [[All-Pro]] (1952–1954, 1956, 1957)
* 6× [[Pro Bowl]] (1952, 1953, 1956–1958, 1961)
* [[NFL 1950s All-Decade Team]]
* [[San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame]]
* [[San Francisco 49ers#Retired numbers|San Francisco 49ers No. 39]] retired
* First-team [[College Football All-America Team|All-American]] ([[1951 College Football All-America Team|1951]])
* 2× First-team [[List of All-Pac-12 Conference football teams|All-Pacific Coast]] ([[1950 All-Pacific Coast Conference football team|1950]], [[1951 All-Pacific Coast Conference football team|1951]])
|statlabel1=Rushing yards
|statvalue1=5,281
|statlabel2=[[Yards per carry]]
|statvalue2=4.7
|statlabel3=Rushing touchdowns
|statvalue3=38
|statlabel4=Receptions
|statvalue4=264
|statlabel5=Receiving yards
|statvalue5=3,247
|statlabel6=Receiving touchdowns
|statvalue6=20
|nfl=hugh-mcelhenny
|pfr=M/McElHu00
|HOF=hugh-mcelhenny
|CollegeHOF=1803
}}
'''Hugh Edward McElhenny Jr.''' (December 31, 1928 – June 17, 2022) was an American professional [[American football|football]] player who was a [[Halfback (American football)|halfback]] in the [[National Football League]] (NFL) from 1952 to 1964 for the [[San Francisco 49ers]], [[Minnesota Vikings]], [[New York Giants]], and [[Detroit Lions]]. He was noted for his explosive, elusive running style and was frequently called "'''the King'''" and "'''Hurryin' Hugh'''". A member of San Francisco's famed [[Million Dollar Backfield (San Francisco 49ers)|Million Dollar Backfield]] and one of the franchise's most popular players, McElhenny's [[uniform number]], No.&nbsp;39, is [[Retired number|retired]] by the 49ers and he is a member of the [[San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame]].

McElhenny first rose to stardom as a standout all-around player for [[El Camino College Compton Center|Compton Junior College]] in 1948. He then transferred to the [[University of Washington]], where he was a two-time All-[[Pacific Coast Conference]] [[Fullback (American football)|fullback]] for the [[Washington Huskies football]] team and set several school and conference records. He was drafted by the 49ers with the ninth pick in the [[1952 NFL draft]], and his versatility made him an immediate star in the league, earning him five first-team [[All-Pro]] honors in his first six seasons. With the 49ers, he was selected for five [[Pro Bowls]], and he earned a sixth Pro Bowl appearance with the Vikings. He finished his career after short stints with the Giants and Lions.

An all-around player who was a threat as a runner and a receiver and also [[Return specialist|returned]] kickoffs and punts, McElhenny had amassed the third most [[all-purpose yards]] of any player in NFL history when he retired. He was inducted into the [[Pro Football Hall of Fame]] in 1970 and the [[College Football Hall of Fame]] in 1981. According to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, "Hugh McElhenny was to pro football in the 1950s and early 1960s what Elvis Presley was to rock and roll",<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.profootballhof.com/history/decades/1950s/the_king.aspx |title=The 1950s and "The King" |work=History Release |publisher=Pro Football Hall of Fame |access-date=October 17, 2016 |url-status=bot: unknown |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100310005531/http://www.profootballhof.com/history/decades/1950s/the_king.aspx |archive-date=March 10, 2010 }}</ref> a reference to both his popularity and his nickname.

==Early life==
[[File:McElhenny 1952 Bowman.jpg|thumb|left|150px|McElhenny depicted with University of Washington]]
Born on December 31, 1928<ref name="UW-obit" /> and raised in [[Los Angeles, California]], Hugh McElhenny attended its [[Washington Preparatory High School|George Washington High School]],<ref name=UntoldStory>{{cite news |url=http://www.seattlepi.com/default/article/The-untold-story-of-Hugh-McElhenny-the-King-of-1153112.php |newspaper=Seattle Post-Intelligencer |last=Raley |first=Dan |title=The untold story of Hugh McElhenny, the King of Montlake |date=September 1, 2004 |access-date=February 29, 2016 |archive-date=March 3, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303211301/http://www.seattlepi.com/default/article/The-untold-story-of-Hugh-McElhenny-the-King-of-1153112.php |url-status=live }}</ref> where he set state high school records in the high and low hurdles and broad jump, and ran the 100-yard dash in 9.8 seconds.<ref name=Grayson>{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=jFVYAAAAIBAJ&sjid=kfcDAAAAIBAJ&pg=1365%2C2516127 |newspaper=The Bend Bulletin |agency=Newspaper Enterprise Association |last=Grayson |first=Harry |title=Compton College grid star one of best in nation |date=December 1, 1948 |page=3 |access-date=September 11, 2016 |archive-date=November 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222422/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=jFVYAAAAIBAJ&sjid=kfcDAAAAIBAJ&pg=1365%2C2516127 |url-status=live }}</ref>  He won both hurdles and the long jump at the 1947 [[CIF California State Meet]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://lynbrooksports.prepcaltrack.com/ATHLETICS/TRACK/stateres.htm |title=California State Meet Results – 1915 to present<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=July 30, 2017 |archive-date=October 11, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191011170257/https://lynbrooksports.prepcaltrack.com/ATHLETICS/TRACK/stateres.htm |url-status=live }}</ref>

==College career==
After graduating, he attended Compton Junior College (now [[El Camino College Compton Center]]), where he was a standout on Compton's undefeated football team in 1948 that won the [[Pasadena Bowl|Junior Rose Bowl]]. That year, he had a 105-yard kickoff return touchdown in a game played at the [[University of Mexico]].<ref name=Wagner>{{cite news|last1=Wagner|first1=Dick|title=Compton Gridders Relive Triumph in '48 Little Rose Bowl|url=http://articles.latimes.com/1988-12-29/news/hl-1238_1_junior-rose-bowl|access-date=September 11, 2016|work=Los Angeles Times|date=December 29, 1988|archive-date=October 26, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151026124823/http://articles.latimes.com/1988-12-29/news/hl-1238_1_junior-rose-bowl|url-status=live}}</ref> Already being considered one of the best players in football, McElhenny drew high praise; [[Heisman Trophy]] winner [[Tom Harmon]] remarked he had "never seen such a combination of speed and size."<ref name=Grayson/> One of his Compton teammates was [[1952 Summer Olympics|1952 Olympic]] gold medalist [[Sim Iness]].<ref name=Wagner/>

After a year at Compton, McElhenny attended the [[University of Washington]] in [[Seattle]].<ref name=heroes>{{cite news|title=Saturday Heroes|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1310&dat=19580912&id=kPtVAAAAIBAJ&sjid=teIDAAAAIBAJ&pg=3566,1731504&hl=en|access-date=September 12, 2016|work=Eugene Register-Guard|date=September 12, 1958|page=8A|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222454/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1310&dat=19580912&id=kPtVAAAAIBAJ&sjid=teIDAAAAIBAJ&pg=3566%2C1731504&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref> He starred as a [[Fullback (American football)|fullback]] for the [[Washington Huskies football]] team, forming a prolific offensive duo with quarterback [[Don Heinrich]] in [[1950 Washington Huskies football team|1950]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Two Huskies Top Gainers|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=860&dat=19501026&id=j0wKAAAAIBAJ&sjid=4koDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6405,3399484&hl=en|access-date=September 9, 2016|work=Ellensburg Daily Record|agency=Associated Press|date=October 26, 1950|page=6|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222421/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=860&dat=19501026&id=j0wKAAAAIBAJ&sjid=4koDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6405%2C3399484&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=htgjcgs>{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=H3pWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=g-UDAAAAIBAJ&pg=3946%2C444429 |newspaper=Spokesman-Review |location=Spokane, Washington |agency=Associated Press |title=Huskies to get JC's grid star |date=February 2, 1949 |page=15 |access-date=May 2, 2016 |archive-date=November 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222421/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=H3pWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=g-UDAAAAIBAJ&pg=3946%2C444429 |url-status=live }}</ref> He rushed for over 1,000 yards that season, and was the last Huskies player to eclipse that mark until 1977.<ref>{{cite news|title=Washington tailback may miss Rose Bowl|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1454&dat=19771227&id=-LksAAAAIBAJ&sjid=IBMEAAAAIBAJ&pg=1862,5851260&hl=en|access-date=September 9, 2016|work=Star-News|agency=Associated Press|date=December 29, 1977|page=4-D|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222422/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1454&dat=19771227&id=-LksAAAAIBAJ&sjid=IBMEAAAAIBAJ&pg=1862%2C5851260&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref> In a game against [[Apple Cup|rival]] [[1950 Washington State Cougars football team|Washington State]], he set school records with 296 rushing yards and five touchdowns. The 296 yards remains a school record as of 2016.<ref name=2016MediaGuide>{{cite web|title=2016 Media Guide|url=http://sidearm.sites.s3.amazonaws.com/washington.sidearmsports.com/documents/2016/7/8/2016_FB_Guide.pdf|website=gohuskies.com|publisher=University of Washington Athletics|pages=96–99|access-date=September 9, 2016|archive-date=October 18, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161018013329/http://sidearm.sites.s3.amazonaws.com/washington.sidearmsports.com/documents/2016/7/8/2016_FB_Guide.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> In three appearances against the [[Washington State Cougars]], he rushed for 578 yards (10.1 yards per carry) and scored seven touchdowns to lead the Huskies to win the [[Apple Cup]] twice.<ref name="SeattleTimes-Obit">{{cite news |last1=Vorel |first1=Mike |title=Legendary UW halfback and Hall of Famer Hugh McElhenny — the Apple Cup king — dies at 93 |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/uw-husky-football/legendary-uw-halfback-and-hall-of-famer-hugh-mcelhenny-dies-at-93/ |access-date=June 24, 2022 |work=The Seattle Times |date=June 23, 2022 |archive-date=June 23, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220623201743/https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/uw-husky-football/legendary-uw-halfback-and-hall-of-famer-hugh-mcelhenny-dies-at-93/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

One of McElhenny's celebrated plays at [[Husky Stadium]] was an uncommon 100-yard [[Punt (gridiron football)#Return|punt return]] against [[1951 USC Trojans football team|USC]] in [[1951 Washington Huskies football team|1951]].<ref>Few punts are caught near one's own goal line, as the returner usually opts for the probable [[touchback]]; those that are caught are rarely returned for significant yardage.</ref><ref name=ergscdef>{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=kZIxAAAAIBAJ&sjid=wwsEAAAAIBAJ&pg=5770%2C5298283 |newspaper=Eugene Register-Guard |location=Oregon |agency=United Press |title=Southern Cal defense stops Huskies, 20–13 |date=October 7, 1951 |page=13 |access-date=March 1, 2016 |archive-date=March 12, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160312093053/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=kZIxAAAAIBAJ&sjid=wwsEAAAAIBAJ&pg=5770%2C5298283 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=wbmchn>{{cite news |url=http://sportspressnw.com/2121810/2011/wayback-machine-mcelhennys-100-yard-return |publisher=Sports Press Northwest |last=Eskanzi |first=David |title=Wayback Machine: McElhenny's 100-yard return |date=October 4, 2011 |access-date=February 29, 2016 |archive-date=April 16, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160416092334/http://sportspressnw.com/2121810/2011/wayback-machine-mcelhennys-100-yard-return |url-status=live }}</ref> The following week, he successfully kicked nine out of nine extra points in a 63–6 blowout over [[1951 Oregon Webfoots football team|Oregon]].<ref>{{cite news|last1=Strite|first1=Dick|title=Highclimber|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1310&dat=19601028&id=GiRWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=7-IDAAAAIBAJ&pg=5774,5170929&hl=en|access-date=September 10, 2016|work=Eugene Register-Guard|date=October 28, 1960|page=2B|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222422/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1310&dat=19601028&id=GiRWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=7-IDAAAAIBAJ&pg=5774%2C5170929&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref> He was a first-team All-[[Pacific Coast Conference]] (PCC) selection in both 1950 and 1951,<ref>{{cite news|title=Coast Stars Named By Platoon System|newspaper=Idaho State Journal|date=December 5, 1950|access-date=September 12, 2016|page=6|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/2580501/1950_ap_all_pcc_football_team/|archive-date=November 18, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151118010440/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/2580501/1950_ap_all_pcc_football_team/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=All-Pacific Coast Team|newspaper=Nevada State Journal|date=November 28, 1951|access-date=September 12, 2016|page=11|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/2579826/1951_up_all_pcc_football_team/|archive-date=August 18, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160818204411/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/2579826/1951_up_all_pcc_football_team/|url-status=live}}</ref> and was selected for the [[Associated Press]] (AP) [[1951 College Football All-America Team|1951 All-America]] team as a fullback. Following his senior season he played in a regional college [[all-star]] game.<ref>{{cite news|title=McElhenny Stars In Bellingham All-Star Game|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=860&dat=19511210&id=bYYKAAAAIBAJ&sjid=iUsDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6209,2035993&hl=en|access-date=September 9, 2016|work=Ellensburg Daily Record|agency=Associated Press|date=December 10, 1951|page=6|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222423/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=860&dat=19511210&id=bYYKAAAAIBAJ&sjid=iUsDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6209%2C2035993&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref> McElhenny led the team in rushing in each of his three seasons and set 16 school records, including season (1,107) and career (2,499) rushing yards.<ref>{{cite web|title=Player Bio: Hugh McElhenny – University of Washington Official Athletic Site|url=http://www.gohuskies.com/news/2013/4/18/208224000.aspx?path=football|website=gohuskies.com|publisher=University of Washington|access-date=September 13, 2016|archive-date=September 19, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160919112739/http://www.gohuskies.com/news/2013/4/18/208224000.aspx?path=football|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=2016MediaGuide/>

==Professional career==
===San Francisco 49ers===
The [[1952 San Francisco 49ers season|San Francisco 49ers]] selected McElhenny in the first round, with the ninth overall selection, of the [[1952 NFL draft]].<ref name=rates>{{cite news|title=Hugh McElhenny Rates a "Rookie of Year" Tag|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1338&dat=19521021&id=RtlXAAAAIBAJ&sjid=Y_YDAAAAIBAJ&pg=5229,1972912&hl=en|access-date=September 8, 2016|work=Spokane Daily Chronicle|agency=United Press|date=October 21, 1952|page=19|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222422/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1338&dat=19521021&id=RtlXAAAAIBAJ&sjid=Y_YDAAAAIBAJ&pg=5229%2C1972912&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref> His first play as a professional was a 40-yard touchdown run which had been drawn in the dirt because he had not yet learned the team's playbook.<ref name=Graham>{{cite news|last1=Graham|first1=Tim|title=Hall of Famer Hugh McElhenny has seen NFL endure big chance|url=http://lasvegassun.com/news/1999/jan/29/hall-of-famer-hugh-mcelhenny-has-seen-nfl-endure-b/|access-date=September 9, 2016|work=Las Vegas Sun|date=January 29, 1999|archive-date=September 21, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921132359/http://lasvegassun.com/news/1999/jan/29/hall-of-famer-hugh-mcelhenny-has-seen-nfl-endure-b/|url-status=live}}</ref> He recorded the season's longest run from scrimmage (89 yards), the longest punt return (94 yards), and the top rushing average (7.0 yards per carry). He was unanimously recognized as the season's top rookie.<ref>[http://www.profootballhof.com/players/hugh-mcelhenny/biography/ Hugh McElhenny Pro Football Hall of Fame Bio] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160830221323/http://www.profootballhof.com/players/hugh-mcelhenny/biography/ |date=August 30, 2016 }}. Pro Football Hall of Fame. Retrieved September 5, 2016.</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Eck|first1=Frank|title=Five Lions Are Honored; Hugh McElhenny Is Named Top Rookie Of '52 Season|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/7704460/hugh_mcelhenny_is_named_top_rookie_of/|access-date=December 3, 2016|work=The Clarion-Ledger|agency=Associated Press|date=January 9, 1963|page=8|archive-date=December 20, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220034314/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/7704460/hugh_mcelhenny_is_named_top_rookie_of/|url-status=live}}</ref>

McElhenny was also an asset in the receiving game, becoming a favorite target of quarterback [[Y. A. Tittle]] on [[screen pass]]es.<ref name=reunite/> His versatility drew praise from opposing coaches, including [[George Halas]] of the [[Chicago Bears]] and [[Steve Owen (American football)|Steve Owen]] of the [[New York Giants]].<ref>{{cite news|first1=Earl|last1=Wright|title=Rookies Making Good in Ranks Of Pro Gridders|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1243&dat=19521121&id=8JBYAAAAIBAJ&sjid=HfgDAAAAIBAJ&pg=2094,4040396&hl=en|access-date=September 4, 2016|work=The Bulletin|agency=United Press|date=November 21, 1952|page=9|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222424/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1243&dat=19521121&id=8JBYAAAAIBAJ&sjid=HfgDAAAAIBAJ&pg=2094%2C4040396&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref> Former Bears quarterback [[Johnny Lujack]] lauded McElhenny as "the best running back I have seen in a long, long time."<ref name=rates/> Also noted was his vision; he had an uncanny ability of seeing and reacting to tacklers in his [[peripheral vision]].<ref>{{cite news|last1=Wood|first1=Hal|title=Hugh McElhenny, Matson Compete For Pro Honors|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1243&dat=19521021&id=15BYAAAAIBAJ&sjid=HfgDAAAAIBAJ&pg=2011,2367578&hl=en|access-date=September 14, 2016|work=The Bulletin|agency=United Press|date=October 21, 1952|page=2|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222425/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1243&dat=19521021&id=15BYAAAAIBAJ&sjid=HfgDAAAAIBAJ&pg=2011%2C2367578&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref> "If you ever watched McElhenny", explained Washington State coach [[Jim Sutherland]], "you'd think he had eyes on the back of his head. I've seen him cut away from a tackler that 99 percent of the backs wouldn't even have seen. It wasn't instinct—he just saw the guy, out of the corner of his eye."<ref>{{cite news|title=Cougar Backs Work On 'Wide Screen Vision'|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=888&dat=19570522&id=cglSAAAAIBAJ&sjid=L3YDAAAAIBAJ&pg=3425,3353875&hl=en|access-date=September 14, 2016|work=St. Petersburg Times|agency=Associated Press|date=May 22, 1957|page=20|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222429/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=888&dat=19570522&id=cglSAAAAIBAJ&sjid=L3YDAAAAIBAJ&pg=3425%2C3353875&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref> McElhenny described his playing style as such:

<blockquote>My attitude carrying the ball was fear—not a fear of getting hurt but a fear of getting caught from behind and taken down and embarrassing myself and my teammates.<ref name=Roberts>{{cite news |url=http://articles.latimes.com/1985-01-20/sports/sp-10560_1_hugh-mcelhenny |newspaper=Los Angeles Times |last=Roberts |first=Rich |title=The King and the President: Hugh McElhenny will assist Reagan with the coin toss |date=January 20, 1985 |access-date=February 29, 2016 |archive-date=May 10, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170510232500/http://articles.latimes.com/1985-01-20/sports/sp-10560_1_hugh-mcelhenny |url-status=live }}</ref></blockquote>

McElhenny repeated as a Pro Bowler for [[1953 San Francisco 49ers season|1953]], joining his backfield teammates, Tittle and fullback [[Joe Perry (American football)|Joe Perry]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Grid Rivalries Renewed Today In Pro Bowl|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1755&dat=19540117&id=tyEhAAAAIBAJ&sjid=3GQEAAAAIBAJ&pg=5148,2879978&hl=en|access-date=September 8, 2016|work=Sarasota Herald-Tribune|agency=Associated Press|date=January 17, 1954|page=13|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222424/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1755&dat=19540117&id=tyEhAAAAIBAJ&sjid=3GQEAAAAIBAJ&pg=5148%2C2879978&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref> In 1954, with the addition of halfback [[John Henry Johnson]], the 49ers formed their famed "[[Million Dollar Backfield (San Francisco 49ers)|Million Dollar Backfield]]" of McElhenny, Tittle, Perry, and Johnson.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/181511-the-san-francisco-49ers-million-dollar-backfield-the-fabulous-foursome |title=San Francisco's Million Dollar Backfield: The 49ers' Fabulous Foursome |last=Tameta |first=Andre |work=Bleacher Report |date=May 22, 2009 |access-date=August 14, 2016 |url-status=bot: unknown |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110609065824/http://bleacherreport.com/articles/181511-the-san-francisco-49ers-million-dollar-backfield-the-fabulous-foursome |archive-date=June 9, 2011 }}</ref> The team had championship aspirations, but McElhenny separated his shoulder against the Bears in the sixth game, ending his season. The offense struggled without McElhenny in the lineup. Before the injury, he led the league with 515 rushing yards and an 8.0 yards-per-carry average.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1873&dat=19541120&id=mOgeAAAAIBAJ&sjid=sswEAAAAIBAJ&pg=2707,628532&hl=en|title=Shoulder Injuries Fell Stars, Reshuffle Pro Grid Standings|date=November 20, 1954|work=Daytona Beach Morning Journal|agency=Associated Press|page=9|access-date=August 14, 2016|archive-date=May 11, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170511044807/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1873&dat=19541120&id=mOgeAAAAIBAJ&sjid=sswEAAAAIBAJ&pg=2707,628532&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref> He still managed to make the AP's second-team [[All-Pro]] team and was a first-team selection by the ''[[New York Daily News]]''.<ref>{{cite web|title=1954 NFL All-Pros|url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1954/allpro.htm|website=Pro-Football-Reference.com|publisher=Sports Reference LLC|access-date=September 9, 2016|archive-date=September 8, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160908131242/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1954/allpro.htm|url-status=live}}</ref>

After a down year in [[1955 San Francisco 49ers season|1955]] for the 49ers and for McElhenny, he had his most productive rushing season statistically in [[1956 San Francisco 49ers season|1956]], picking up 916 yards and eight touchdowns. He was invited to his third Pro Bowl.<ref>{{cite news|title=West Favored In Pro Bowl|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=2229&dat=19570113&id=UgIzAAAAIBAJ&sjid=3wAGAAAAIBAJ&pg=3942,1350878&hl=en|access-date=September 9, 2016|work=Sunday Herald|agency=United Press|date=January 13, 1957|page=33|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222424/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=2229&dat=19570113&id=UgIzAAAAIBAJ&sjid=3wAGAAAAIBAJ&pg=3942%2C1350878&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref> John Henry Johnson was traded prior to the [[1957 San Francisco 49ers season|1957 season]], which broke up the Million Dollar Backfield. Led by McElhenny and Tittle, the 49ers finished the 1957 regular season tied for the [[Eastern and Western Conferences (NFL) 1933–69|Western Conference]] title with the [[1957 Detroit Lions season|Detroit Lions]]. In the [[1957 NFL playoffs|Western Conference tiebreaker]], McElhenny carried 14 times for 82 yards and caught six passes for 96 yards and a touchdown, but the Lions won with a comeback victory to advance to the [[1957 NFL Championship Game]].<ref>{{cite news|last1=Stevenson|first1=Jack|title=Another Amazing Comeback Gives Lions 31–27 Victory|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=110&dat=19571223&id=hqwwAAAAIBAJ&sjid=UzwDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6036,5337745&hl=en|access-date=August 16, 2016|work=Ludington Daily News|agency=Associated Press|date=December 23, 1957|page=10|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222456/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=110&dat=19571223&id=hqwwAAAAIBAJ&sjid=UzwDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6036%2C5337745&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref> Following the season, McElhenny was invited to the [[1958 Pro Bowl]] and was named the player of the game.<ref>{{cite news|title=West Rips East, 26–7 In Pro Bowl|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1310&dat=19580113&id=VflVAAAAIBAJ&sjid=qOIDAAAAIBAJ&pg=5076,1661045&hl=en|access-date=September 9, 2016|work=Eugene Register-Guard|agency=Associated Press|date=January 13, 1958|page=2B|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222457/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1310&dat=19580113&id=VflVAAAAIBAJ&sjid=qOIDAAAAIBAJ&pg=5076%2C1661045&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref>

After another Pro Bowl year in [[1958 San Francisco 49ers season|1958]], injuries over the next two seasons hampered his production. The 49ers placed the 32-year-old McElhenny on the [[1961 NFL expansion draft]] list.<ref name=Lewiston>{{cite news|title=McElhenny Signs with the Vikings|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1928&dat=19610517&id=yMEgAAAAIBAJ&sjid=VGoFAAAAIBAJ&pg=4397,1752264&hl=en|access-date=September 10, 2016|work=The Lewiston Daily Sun|agency=Associated Press|date=May 17, 1961|page=12|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222457/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1928&dat=19610517&id=yMEgAAAAIBAJ&sjid=VGoFAAAAIBAJ&pg=4397%2C1752264&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Minnesota Vikings===
McElhenny joined the newly formed Vikings in [[1961 Minnesota Vikings season|1961]] through the [[1961 NFL expansion draft|expansion draft]].<ref name=Lewiston/> That year, he led the team in rushing and had seven total touchdowns, including his first punt return touchdown since his rookie season.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Rhinehart|first1=Andy|title=Expansion draft isn't a gold mine|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1876&dat=19950215&id=ybYeAAAAIBAJ&sjid=Zc8EAAAAIBAJ&pg=6567,5296994&hl=en|access-date=September 10, 2016|work=Herald-Journal|date=February 15, 1995|page=D2|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222508/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1876&dat=19950215&id=ybYeAAAAIBAJ&sjid=Zc8EAAAAIBAJ&pg=6567%2C5296994&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref> He was invited to his sixth Pro Bowl following the season.<ref>{{cite news|title=8 Packers'll Play For West In All-Star Pro Bowl Tangle|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=897&dat=19611220&id=1DI0AAAAIBAJ&sjid=3k8DAAAAIBAJ&pg=5346,3912385&hl=en|access-date=September 4, 2016|work=Prescott Evening Courier|agency=United Press International|date=December 20, 1961|page=7|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222459/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=897&dat=19611220&id=1DI0AAAAIBAJ&sjid=3k8DAAAAIBAJ&pg=5346%2C3912385&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref> In his second season with the Vikings in [[1962 Minnesota Vikings season|1962]], he was held scoreless for the first time in his career. The Vikings then looked to part ways with McElhenny as the team turned to an emphasis on youth. He described his time with the Vikings as a "dead end street," since he "didn't fit into their plans for the future."<ref name=Daley>{{cite news|last1=Daley|first1=Arthur|title=Found: Fountain Of Youth|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=888&dat=19630825&id=uptPAAAAIBAJ&sjid=sVIDAAAAIBAJ&pg=5737,2104515&hl=en|access-date=September 8, 2016|work=St. Petersburg Times|date=August 25, 1963|page=4-C|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222458/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=888&dat=19630825&id=uptPAAAAIBAJ&sjid=sVIDAAAAIBAJ&pg=5737%2C2104515&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref>

===New York Giants===
The Vikings traded McElhenny to the Giants in July [[1963 New York Giants season|1963]] for two draft choices and player to be named later.<ref name=meltogi>{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=1sEVAAAAIBAJ&sjid=3xAEAAAAIBAJ&pg=7449%2C659351 |newspaper=Milwaukee Sentinel |agency=UPI |title=McElhenny to Giants |date=July 18, 1963 |page=2, part 2 }}</ref><ref name=ergaptrd>{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=4P5VAAAAIBAJ&sjid=I-MDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6753%2C3343549 |newspaper=Eugene Register-Guard |agency=Associated Press |title=McElhenny joins Giants after trade |date=July 18, 1963 |access-date=April 1, 2017 |page=13D |archive-date=November 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222511/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=4P5VAAAAIBAJ&sjid=I-MDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6753%2C3343549 |url-status=live }}</ref> The trade reunited him with Tittle, who had been traded to the Giants two seasons earlier.<ref name=reunite>{{cite news|title=Giants Reunite Passing Combo|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1350&dat=19630717&id=cccwAAAAIBAJ&sjid=OAEEAAAAIBAJ&pg=7217,3370399&hl=en|access-date=September 4, 2016|work=Toledo Blade|agency=Associated Press|date=July 18, 1963|page=32|archive-date=May 11, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170511044632/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1350&dat=19630717&id=cccwAAAAIBAJ&sjid=OAEEAAAAIBAJ&pg=7217,3370399&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref> On the reunion, McElhenny responded that it was "great to be with a winner," and he played with renewed enthusiasm.<ref name=Daley/> The Giants made it to the [[1963 NFL Championship Game]], where McElhenny carried nine times for 17 yards, had two receptions for 20 yards, and had a 47-yard kickoff return in the 14–10 loss to the [[1963 Chicago Bears season|Bears]].<ref>{{cite web|title=New York Giants at Chicago Bears – December 29th, 1963|url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/196312290chi.htm|website=Pro-Football-Reference.com|publisher=Sports Reference LLC|access-date=September 10, 2016|archive-date=September 14, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160914005211/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/196312290chi.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> He was released by New York during training camp in [[1964 New York Giants season|1964]].<ref name=hhmcelhsgby>{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=30NjAAAAIBAJ&sjid=M3QNAAAAIBAJ&pg=1333%2C4611418 |newspaper=Wilmington Morning Star |last=Richman |first=Milton |title=Heavy-hearted McElhenny says goodby &#91;sic&#93; to Giants |date=August 28, 1964 |access-date=April 1, 2017 |page=15 |archive-date=November 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222459/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=30NjAAAAIBAJ&sjid=M3QNAAAAIBAJ&pg=1333%2C4611418 |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Detroit Lions===
McElhenny was soon picked up by the [[1964 Detroit Lions season|Detroit Lions]],<ref name=dlsmcil>{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=iNhaAAAAIBAJ&sjid=hWwDAAAAIBAJ&pg=2280%2C740585 |newspaper=Pittsburgh Post-Gazette |agency=Associated Press |title=Detroit Lions sign McElhenny |date=September 5, 1964 |page=10 |access-date=May 2, 2016 |archive-date=November 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222546/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=iNhaAAAAIBAJ&sjid=hWwDAAAAIBAJ&pg=2280%2C740585 |url-status=live }}</ref> for whom he appeared in eight games before retiring after the season.<ref name=hmhafete>{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=YSYxAAAAIBAJ&sjid=VwEEAAAAIBAJ&pg=5382%2C219650 |newspaper=Toledo Blade |agency=Associated Press |title=Hugh McElhenny honored at fete |date=April 1, 1965 |access-date=April 1, 2017 |page=42 |archive-date=November 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222502/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=YSYxAAAAIBAJ&sjid=VwEEAAAAIBAJ&pg=5382%2C219650 |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Legacy==
McElhenny gained 11,375 all-purpose yards in his 13-year career and retired as one of just three players to eclipse 11,000 yards.<ref name="Blevins2011">{{cite book|author=Dave Blevins|title=The Sports Hall of Fame Encyclopedia: Baseball, Basketball, Football, Hockey, Soccer|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=a7CnkH2HIsQC&pg=PA654|date=December 23, 2011|publisher=Scarecrow Press|isbn=978-1-4616-7370-5|pages=654–}}</ref> He was nicknamed "The King" while with the 49ers because he was "the most feared running back in the NFL."<ref name=King>{{cite news|title='The King' But not at the bank, says Hugh McElhenny|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1817&dat=19791107&id=ETAdAAAAIBAJ&sjid=1p4EAAAAIBAJ&pg=6895,1950594&hl=en|access-date=September 10, 2016|work=The Tuscaloosa News|agency=Associated Press|date=November 8, 1979|page=22|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222501/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1817&dat=19791107&id=ETAdAAAAIBAJ&sjid=1p4EAAAAIBAJ&pg=6895%2C1950594&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref> 49ers quarterback [[Frankie Albert]] gave him the nickname in the locker room following McElhenny's fourth game as a rookie, in which he returned a punt 96 yards for a touchdown against the Bears.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Hession|first1=Joseph|title=Hugh McElhenny: The King|journal=The Coffin Corner|date=1986|volume=8|issue=4|url=http://profootballresearchers.com/archives/Website_Files/Coffin_Corner/08-04-264.pdf|access-date=October 17, 2016|archive-date=September 8, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150908071800/http://profootballresearchers.com/archives/Website_Files/Coffin_Corner/08-04-264.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>

He was elected to the [[Pro Football Hall of Fame]] in 1970, an honor he described as the highlight of his life.<ref name=Roberts/> Others inducted in the class were contemporaries [[Jack Christiansen]], [[Tom Fears]], and [[Pete Pihos]].<ref name=Skinner>{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=jgcdAAAAIBAJ&sjid=E5wEAAAAIBAJ&pg=5108%2C1576584 |newspaper=The Tuscaloosa News |agency=Associated Press |last=Skinner |first=John R. |title=Four inducted in fame hall |date=August 9, 1970 |access-date=September 10, 2016 |page=13 |archive-date=March 12, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160312093030/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=jgcdAAAAIBAJ&sjid=E5wEAAAAIBAJ&pg=5108%2C1576584 |url-status=live }}</ref> His jersey number 39 is retired by the 49ers, and by virtue of his membership in the pro hall of fame, he was automatically inducted as a charter member of the [[San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame]] in 2009.<ref>{{cite web|title=49ers Announce Edward DeBartolo Sr. 49ers Hall of Fame|url=http://www.49ers.com/news/article-1/49ers-Announce-Edward-DeBartolo-Sr-49ers-Hall-of-Fame/ce343051-9d0a-102c-ae14-8cc2288110cb|publisher=San Francisco 49ers|access-date=September 13, 2016|date=May 12, 2009|archive-date=September 16, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160916171549/http://www.49ers.com/news/article-1/49ers-Announce-Edward-DeBartolo-Sr-49ers-Hall-of-Fame/ce343051-9d0a-102c-ae14-8cc2288110cb|url-status=live}}</ref> [[NFL Network]] ranked him the fourth most elusive runner of all time in 2007.<ref>{{cite web|title=Top Ten Elusive Runners: Hugh McElhenny|url=http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-top-ten/09000d5d80747c9b/Top-Ten-Elusive-Runners-Hugh-McElhenny|website=NFL.com|publisher=NFL Network|access-date=September 13, 2016|format=video|archive-date=September 21, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921201459/http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-top-ten/09000d5d80747c9b/Top-Ten-Elusive-Runners-Hugh-McElhenny|url-status=live}}</ref>

McElhenny was inducted into [[Washington Sports Hall of Fame|State of Washington Sports Hall of Fame]] in 1963 and the [[College Football Hall of Fame]] in 1981.<ref>{{cite web|title=State of Washington Sports Hall of Fame: Football|url=http://washingtonsportshof.com/football.htm|website=washingtonsportshof.com|publisher=State of Washington Sports Hall of Fame|access-date=September 14, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160311234013/http://washingtonsportshof.com/football.htm|archive-date=March 11, 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="Blevins2011" />  In 1979, he became one of ten inaugural members inducted into the University of Washington Husky Hall of Fame in 1979.<ref>{{cite web |title=Husky Hall Of Fame Inductees by Class |url=https://static.gohuskies.com/custompages/halloffame/listbyyear.html |website=static.gohuskies.com |publisher=University of Washington Husky Hall of Fame |access-date=June 24, 2022 |archive-date=January 14, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170114165354/http://static.gohuskies.com/custompages/halloffame/listbyyear.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="UW-obit">{{cite news |title=UW Football Mourns Passing Of Husky Legend Hugh McElhenny |url=https://gohuskies.com/news/2022/6/23/uw-football-morns-the-passing-of-husky-legend-hugh-mcelhenny.aspx |access-date=June 24, 2022 |work=University of Washington Athletics |date=June 23, 2022 |language=en |archive-date=June 23, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220623231604/https://gohuskies.com/news/2022/6/23/uw-football-morns-the-passing-of-husky-legend-hugh-mcelhenny.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref> As of 2016, his 12 rushing touchdowns in 1950 and 13 in 1951 both remain in the top ten all-time for a Washington player in a single season, and his 28 career rushing touchdowns tie him for sixth in school history.<ref name=2016MediaGuide/>

On January 20, 1985, McElhenny participated in the opening coin toss at [[Super Bowl XIX]] at [[Stanford Stadium]], along with [[President of the United States|U.S. President]] [[Ronald Reagan]], who participated by video feed from the [[White House]] after having been sworn into his second term of office earlier that day.<ref name=Roberts/>

===Improper benefits===
After denying rumors for decades, in 2004 McElhenny confirmed that he received improper financial benefits from the University of Washington during his time there, which included a $300 monthly check.<ref name=UntoldStory/> Per [[NCAA#Player compensation|NCAA rules]], the most a college can offer an athlete is a summer job and a scholarship covering boarding and tuition.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Dupree|first1=David|title=Paper Says Gridders Lured Improperly|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1298&dat=19701110&id=ydJNAAAAIBAJ&sjid=XooDAAAAIBAJ&pg=832,6524491&hl=en|access-date=September 12, 2016|work=The Free Lance-Star|date=November 10, 1970|page=11|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222512/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1298&dat=19701110&id=ydJNAAAAIBAJ&sjid=XooDAAAAIBAJ&pg=832%2C6524491&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref> A popular (albeit usually jocular) spin on the rumor was that McElhenny essentially took a pay cut when he left the university to play for the 49ers.<ref name=heroes/><ref name=secrets>{{cite news|last1=Talbot|first1=Gayle|title=Cravath Tells Grid Secrets|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1310&dat=19531016&id=jR1WAAAAIBAJ&sjid=t-IDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6895,2593129&hl=en|access-date=September 12, 2016|work=Eugene Register-Guard|agency=Associated Press|date=October 16, 1953|page=3B|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222501/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1310&dat=19531016&id=jR1WAAAAIBAJ&sjid=t-IDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6895%2C2593129&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=freeride>{{cite news|title=Hugh McElhenny Denies Charges Of 'Free Ride'|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1350&dat=19560217&id=31ZIAAAAIBAJ&sjid=uAAEAAAAIBAJ&pg=7170,1279877&hl=en|access-date=September 12, 2016|work=Toledo Blade|agency=Associated Press|date=February 17, 1956|page=32|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222501/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1350&dat=19560217&id=31ZIAAAAIBAJ&sjid=uAAEAAAAIBAJ&pg=7170%2C1279877&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref> This was not entirely untrue; all payments accounted for, including legitimate ones, McElhenny claimed he and his wife received a combined $10,000 a year while at Washington—with the 49ers, his rookie salary was worth $7,000.<ref name=UntoldStory/>

==Personal and later life==
After retiring as a player, McElhenny served as a [[color commentator]] on 49ers radio broadcasts from 1966 to 1972. In 1971, he signed a contract with a group called the Seattle Sea Lions in hopes of bringing an NFL franchise to Seattle.<ref>{{cite news|title=McElhenny Gets Contract|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=950&dat=19711218&id=IEVQAAAAIBAJ&sjid=yFcDAAAAIBAJ&pg=3437,967348&hl=en|access-date=September 10, 2016|work=The Evening Independent|agency=Associated Press|date=December 18, 1971|page=3-C|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222533/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=950&dat=19711218&id=IEVQAAAAIBAJ&sjid=yFcDAAAAIBAJ&pg=3437%2C967348&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref> He proactively named himself general manager of the non-existent "Seattle Kings" in May 1972,<ref>{{cite news|title=Pro Football Expansion Hopefuls Join Hands|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1346&dat=19720521&id=WLYwAAAAIBAJ&sjid=afoDAAAAIBAJ&pg=7524,6017540&hl=en|access-date=September 10, 2016|work=Lakeland Ledger|agency=Associated Press|date=May 21, 1972|page=2B|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222558/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1346&dat=19720521&id=WLYwAAAAIBAJ&sjid=afoDAAAAIBAJ&pg=7524%2C6017540&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Are The Seattle Kings For Real?|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=2002&dat=19720814&id=zLIiAAAAIBAJ&sjid=abMFAAAAIBAJ&pg=3935,3439369&hl=en|access-date=September 10, 2016|work=Beaver County Times|date=August 14, 1972|page=B-3|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222533/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=2002&dat=19720814&id=zLIiAAAAIBAJ&sjid=abMFAAAAIBAJ&pg=3935%2C3439369&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref> and the next year the franchise gained the backing of entrepreneur [[Edward Nixon]], brother of president [[Richard Nixon]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Nixon's brother buys|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=860&dat=19730316&id=5HFUAAAAIBAJ&sjid=o48DAAAAIBAJ&pg=6264,3993376&hl=en|access-date=September 10, 2016|work=Ellensburg Daily Record|agency=United Press International|date=March 16, 1973|page=3|archive-date=November 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222534/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=860&dat=19730316&id=5HFUAAAAIBAJ&sjid=o48DAAAAIBAJ&pg=6264%2C3993376&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref> However, McElhenny's plans fell through, as the [[Seattle Seahawks]] were founded in 1974.<ref name=King/>

[[Image:Hugh McElhenny at a collectors show in Jan 2014.jpg|thumb|McElhenny at a sports card show in 2014]]

McElhenny was related to the [[Edmund McIlhenny|McIlhenny]] family of [[Louisiana]], the makers of [[Tabasco sauce]].<ref name=nytmtabs>{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2013/02/04/sports/football/tabasco-a-super-bowl-staple-adds-a-spicy-twist.html |newspaper=The New York Times |last=Belson |first=Ken |title=Tabasco's ties to football burn deep |date=February 5, 2013 |access-date=February 29, 2016 |archive-date=November 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106222558/https://www.nytimes.com/2013/02/04/sports/football/tabasco-a-super-bowl-staple-adds-a-spicy-twist.html |url-status=live }}</ref> In his later life, McElhenny was diagnosed with a rare nerve disorder called [[Guillain–Barré syndrome]], which almost killed him. He was temporarily paralyzed from the neck down and had to use a walker for a year.<ref name=UntoldStory/><ref name=Graham/>

McElhenny died at his home in [[Henderson, Nevada]], on June 17, 2022.<ref name="SeattleTimes-Obit" /><ref>{{Cite news |last=Goldstein |first=Richard |date=June 23, 2022 |title=Hugh McElhenny, Elusive Hall of Fame Halfback, Is Dead at 93 |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2022/06/23/sports/football/hugh-mcelhenny-dead.html |access-date=June 24, 2022 |issn=0362-4331 |archive-date=June 24, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220624001111/https://www.nytimes.com/2022/06/23/sports/football/hugh-mcelhenny-dead.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/34137423/hall-fame-halfback-hugh-mcelhenny-dies-age-93|title=Hall of Fame halfback Hugh McElhenny dies at age 93|publisher=ESPN|date=June 23, 2022|accessdate=June 23, 2022|archive-date=June 23, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220623194624/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/34137423/hall-fame-halfback-hugh-mcelhenny-dies-age-93|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/hugh-mcelhenny-dies-at-93-hall-of-fame-halfback-49ers|title=Hugh McElhenny, Hall of Fame halfback with 49ers, dies at 93|work=NFL.com|date=June 23, 2022|accessdate=June 23, 2022|archive-date=June 23, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220623191704/https://www.nfl.com/news/hugh-mcelhenny-dies-at-93-hall-of-fame-halfback-49ers|url-status=live}}</ref>

==See also==
* [[Washington Huskies football statistical leaders]]

==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}

==Further reading==
* {{Cite book |last=Sullivan |first=George |year=1972 |title=The Great Running Backs |location=New York |publisher=G. P. Putnam's Sons |isbn=0-399-11026-7 |pages=85–93 }}

==External links==
{{Commons category}}
* {{Profootballhof|id=148|name=Hugh McElhenny}}
* {{Cfbhof|id=1803|name=Hugh McElhenny}}
* {{Footballstats |nfl=2520700 |cfl= |afl= |espn= |cbs= |yahoo= |fox= |si= |pfr=McElHu00 |dbf=MCELHHUG01 |rotoworld=}}


{{1952 NFL Draft}}
{{49ers1952DraftPicks}}
{{49ersFirstPick}}
{{1961 Minnesota Vikings}}
{{NFL1950s}}
{{49ers Retired Numbers}}
{{San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame}}
{{1970 Football HOF}}
{{Pro Football Hall of Fame members}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:McElhenny, Hugh}}
[[Category:1928 births]]
[[Category:2022 deaths]]
[[Category:American football halfbacks]]
[[Category:College Football Hall of Fame inductees]]
[[Category:Compton Tartars football players]]
[[Category:Detroit Lions players]]
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[[Category:National Football League announcers]]
[[Category:National Football League players with retired numbers]]
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[[Category:Players of American football from Los Angeles]]
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[[Category:San Francisco 49ers announcers]]
[[Category:San Francisco 49ers players]]
[[Category:Track and field athletes from California]]
[[Category:Washington Huskies football players]]
[[Category:Western Conference Pro Bowl players]]
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