Chicago Bears: Top 10 wide receivers in franchise history

1. Harlon Hill (1954-61): 226 receptions, 4,616 yards, 40 touchdowns

Harlon Hill was a big-play receiver when he played for the Chicago Bears. He averaged 20.4 yards per catch and his touchdowns rank him second all-time. He was the Rookie of the Year in 1954 and was the Most Valuable Player in 1955. Additionally, he made the All-Pro team three times (1954-56). Hill ranked second in receiving yards and touchdowns for the Bears. He ranked 14th in receptions.

In that sensational rookie campaign, Hill scored 12 touchdowns (ranking second all-time for the Bears). Remember, back then they only played 12 games and the passing game wasn’t as sophisticated as it is today. He scored four touchdowns in a game in 1954 and that Bears record still stands (tied by Mike Ditka in 1963).

Hill rose from an unknown Division III player to be one of the all-time best Chicago Bears receiver. For that, he has an award named in his honor. The Harlon Hill Trophy is awarded each year to the top Division III player.

The fact Hill ranks second in so many categories and the top player in each is a different player gives him the edge as the top receiver in Chicago Bears history.

Next: 5 Burning questions for the Bears after a busy offseason

Hopefully, we enter a new era in the offense and these Chicago Bears franchise records are eventually smashed. The offense is a modern one, and if it’s successful those record books should look completely different in future years.