Thomas Franklin McDonald (July 26, 1934 – September 24, 2018) was an American football wide receiver, commonly described in his era as a flanker. Born in Roy, New Mexico, he rose to prominence as a college player at the University of Oklahoma before a lengthy professional career. McDonald is remembered for his speed, acrobatic catches and consistent production, and he is a member of both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the College Football Hall of Fame.

Early life and college

McDonald grew up in New Mexico and earned a place on the Oklahoma Sooners football team, where he played under coach Bud Wilkinson. At Oklahoma he developed the quickness and route-running that later defined his professional play. His collegiate performances drew national attention and led to his selection in the NFL.

Professional career

Tommy McDonald spent the bulk of his professional years with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he became one of the league's most dangerous pass-catchers and helped the club to a championship-level season. Over the course of his career he also had stints with several other NFL franchises, including the Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Rams, Atlanta Falcons and Cleveland Browns. He announced his retirement from professional football on March 15, 1969.

  • Primary position: flanker / wide receiver
  • Noted attributes: speed, hands, elusiveness
  • Teams: Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Rams, Atlanta Falcons, Cleveland Browns

Playing style and impact

McDonald was regarded as an instinctive receiver who made difficult catches look routine. He combined downfield speed with the ability to create separation on short and intermediate routes. His play helped shape the role of the modern wide receiver in a period when the passing game was expanding in professional football.

Honors and legacy

After retiring on March 15, 1969, McDonald was remembered as one of his generation's standout pass-catchers. He earned election to the College Football Hall of Fame for his collegiate achievements and was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998. Teammates, opponents and sports historians often cite his knack for big plays and his influence on receiver play. McDonald died on September 24, 2018, at the age of 84.

For more on his teams and career milestones, see team histories and Hall of Fame resources: Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Rams, Atlanta Falcons, Cleveland Browns.