95. Joe Fortunato

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Joe Fortunato played his entire career with the Chicago Bears, the team that drafted him in the 7^th Round in 1952.

While the Linebacker was chosen for the 1950's All-Decade Team, many of his accolades took place in the 1960s. Four of his five Pro Bowls came in the '60s, as did all three of his First Team All-Pro Selections. As for his team accomplishments, Fortunato was a vital part of the 1963 Bears Championship Team. He would record 16 Interceptions and recover 22 Fumbles over his career, the latter of which was a record when he retired. Not too bad for a guy who looked undersized for his position!

The Bullet Points

Country of Origin: Mingo Junction, Ohio, U.S.A.
Eligible Since: Saturday, 01 January 1972
Position: Linebacker
Games Played: 155
Notable Statistics: 153 Games Started
16 Interceptions
156 Interception Return Yards
1 Interception Return Touchdown
22 Fumble Recoveries
43 Fumble Recovery Yards
1 Fumble Recovery Touchdown
21.0 Quarterback Sacks*
2 Rushing Attempts
-9 Rushing Yards
1 Rushing Touchdown
80 Approximate Value

2 Playoff Games
2 Playoff Games Started

*Quarterback Sacks were unofficially calculated by Pro Football Reference from 1960 to 1981.
Played For: Chicago Bears
College: Mississippi State
Drafted: 7th Round, 80th Overall in 1952
Major Accolades and Awards:
NFL Champion (Chicago Bears 1963)
NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
First Team All-Pro Selection (3) (1963, 1964 & 1965)
Second Team All-Pro Selection (1) (1962)
Pro Bowl Selection (5) (1958, 1962, 1963, 1964 & 1965)
Other Points of Note:
Top Ten Finishes: Approximate Value (1) (1963)
Top Ten Finishes: Fumble Recoveries (1) (1959)
Top Ten Finishes: Fumble Recovery Yards (1) (1966)
Notable All Time Rankings: 95. Fumble Recoveries: 22
Years Nominated for the Hall of Fame: None.

Should Joe Fortunato be in the Hall of Fame?

Definitely put him in! - 82.6%

Maybe, but others deserve it first. - 13%

Probably not, but it wouldn't be the end of the world. - 4.3%

No opinion. - 0%

No way! - 0%

Last modified on Saturday, 19 September 2026 18:29

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