Bill George, middle linebacker with the Chicago Bears, is seen in this 1966 photograph. (Associated Press)

Bill George poses outside the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, on July 28, 1974, after he was inducted into the memorial institution. George played linebacker with the Chicago Bears from 1952-1965 and with the Los Angeles Rams in 1966. (Associated Press)

Bill George of the Chicago Bears is shown, Nov. 1, 1963. (Associated Press)

Chicago Bears head coach George Halas and linebacker Bill George celebrate the last second of the game as their team defeated the Green Bay Packers, 10-3, at City Stadium in Green Bay, Wisc., Sept. 15, 1963. (AP Photo/Charles Knoblock)

Chicago Bears linebacker Bill George (61) adjusts his helmet on the sideline during game against the Los Angeles Rams in Los Angeles, Oct. 13, 1963. Bears won, 52-14. (National Football League)

Chicago Bears linebacker Bill George (61) poses during training camp at St. Joseph's College in Rensselaer, Ind., Aug. 12, 1964. (National Football League)

Chicago Bears linebacker Bill George (61) poses during training camp at St. Joseph's College in Rensselaer, Ind., Aug. 10, 1962. It has been alleged that George was the first true middle linebacker in football and, inadvertently, the creator of the 4-3 defense. (National Football League)