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Chris Burford

End

Inducted 1995

Date of Birth

1/31/1938

Birthplace

Oakland, CA

School

Stanford University (1957-1959)

Bio

Chris Burford played three years at end for Stanford in the Pacific Coast Conference. In his junior year, 1958, he caught 45 passes and ranked third in the nation in receptions. As a senior in 1959, he led the nation in receptions, 61, and yards gained on passes, 756. The 61 receptions tied the national record at that time. Stanford had a 2-8 record in 1958 and 3-7 in 1959, and Burford was the lone standout. He was named the team MVP both years and captain in 1959. Burford was twice all-conference, first-team All-America in 1959, and winner of the 1959 Pop Warner trophy as MVP among all west coast teams. He played in the East-West Shrine Game and the Hula Bowl. Burford starred in an eight-year pro career, 1960-67, with the Dallas Texans and Kansas City Chiefs. He obtained a law degree and established a law practice in Walnut Creek, California. He was active in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, March of Dimes, Big Brothers, and other charities in his town.