The 1956 NFL MVP, Gifford was drafted in the first round by the New York Giants in 1952 out of USC.
An ironman at USC, Gifford carried that versatility to the NFL where he was voted to eight Pro Bowls at three different positions -- defensive back, halfback and flanker.
After suffering a crushing hit at the hands of Chuck Bednarik of the Philadelphia Eagles, Gifford briefly retired, sitting out the 1961 season. He returned in 1962 as a wide receiver before retiring for good in 1964.
Gifford was inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame in 1977 after a career that saw him rush for 3,609 yards and 34 touchdowns, catch 367 passes with 43 touchdowns and throw for 14 touchdowns -- the most by any non-quarterback in NFL history.