Harlon Hill

Harlon Junius Hill (born May 4, 1932 in Killen, Alabama) was a standout player at Lauderdale County High School and later as an offensive end at Florence State Teachers College, now known as the University of North Alabama, being named an NAIA All-American in his senior year (1953). He later had a successful career in the NFL, playing for the Chicago Bears (1954–1961), the Pittsburgh Steelers (1962), and the Detroit Lions (1962). Hill was the NFL’s rookie of the year in 1954, its most valuable player in 1955, and a three-time All-Pro selection (1954–1956). He is the namesake of the Harlon Hill Trophy.

After his NFL career was cut short by injury, Hill returned to Alabama and became a public school teacher and coach at Brooks High School, eventually becoming the principal. He is retired from the Lauderdale County, Alabama school system and still resides in Alabama.