Mike Michalske


After playing fullback at Penn State, Michalske transitioned to guard upon entering the pro game (his first two years were spent with the New York Yankees football team).

Michalske used his quickness and athleticism to become, arguably, pro football’s first truly great guard.

He was known as, “The Guard of the Century.”

Led the Packers to their first 3 NFL championships (consecutive titles in ’29, ‘30, & ’31).

He was the first guard inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, in 1964.

Michalske, nicknamed “Iron Mike”, played 60 minutes of almost every game he was in as a Packer, playing on the defensive side, as well.

An All-Pro four times, Michalske was especially devastating on attack. No guard ever led the charge with swifter, surer savagery.

Coached in the college ranks for about a quarter century at Iowa State, Texas Aggies, and the University of Texas.