Doug Buffone
Linebacker | Class of 2015
Hometown
Yatesboro, PA
High School
Shannock Valley High School
Deceased
April 20, 2015
College
University of Louisville
Professional Career
Chicago Bears (1966-1979)
Top NFL Statistics
NFL Career Highlights
100 Greatest Chicago Bears
of All Time
About Doug Buffone
Doug Buffone, the son of an Italian American coal miner, was born and raised in the small town of Yatesboro, Pennsylvania (population 500). He attended Shannock Valley High School, where he stood out as a talented multi-sport athlete. Like fellow Pennsylvanian Johnny Unitas, Buffone headed south to play football at the University of Louisville, where he quickly made his mark as one of the school’s greatest defensive players.
At Louisville, Buffone gained a reputation for his toughness and sharp football instincts. He is one of just four players in program history to lead the Cardinals in tackles for three straight seasons. His 479 career tackles still ranks third all-time at the university. Legendary head coach Frank Camp once called Buffone “the most complete ball player I’ve ever coached.” In 1965, Buffone was named team MVP and earned second-team All-America honors. The following year, he was selected by the Chicago Bears with the 60th overall pick in the fourth round of the 1966 NFL Draft—launching a nearly 50-year bond with the team, its fans, and the city of Chicago.
In Chicago, Doug Buffone became a cornerstone of the Bears’ defense. Known for his relentless tackling and commanding presence, he was named defensive captain in 1972 and held that role for eight seasons. While the Bears reached the playoffs only twice during his 14-year career, Buffone’s individual performance remained a model of consistency and excellence. He recorded more than 1,200 tackles and holds the franchise record for most interceptions by a linebacker with 24. Remarkably, he surpassed the 100-tackle mark in seven separate seasons.
Buffone was the last active Bear to have played under team founder George Halas, serving as a bridge between the Halas era and the rise of Mike Ditka. A respected mentor and locker room leader, he was widely regarded as the heart and soul of the team during his tenure.
After retiring from the NFL in 1979, Buffone remained a beloved figure in Chicago. He transitioned into broadcasting, where his passionate commentary and deep football knowledge made him a fan favorite. For decades, he co-hosted the Bears’ postgame shows and became a familiar voice in the city’s sports media scene.
Beyond the broadcast booth, Buffone was also a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist. He helped launch the Arena Football League and founded the Chicago Bruisers franchise. He also owned several businesses in the area, including the famed Rush Street eatery, Gibson’s Steakhouse. As an unofficial ambassador for both the Bears and the city, Buffone was one of Chicago’s most cherished public figures.
Doug Buffone passed away on April 20, 2015, at the age of 70, in the city he loved and called home.
Regular Season
Playoffs
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