Greatest Kansas Football Players of All-Time: George Mrkonic vs Kyle McNorton

(5) George Mrkonic

The Pennsylvania-born Mrkonic was part of the great KU teams of the early 1950s, playing from 1950-52 alongside Gil Reich, Oliver Spencer, Hal Cleavinger, and Galen Fiss, among others.  George was a do-everything man for KU, playing on both the offensive and defensive lines as well as punting for the Jayhawks.  He also lettered in baseball.

George was drafted 45th overall in the 1953 NFL draft by the Philadelphia Eagles.  He played in 10 games during the '53 season, his only season in the NFL.

Mrkonic's honors at KU include first-team All-Big 7 in 1951 and 1952, first team All-American in 1951, and sits in the Ring of Honor at Memorial Stadium.

(28) Kyle McNorton

McNorton played LB at Kansas from 1978-81. Kyle came to KU from nearby Topeka, KS, and Seaman High School.  He led the Jayhawks in tackles in 1980 and 1981, and was first team All-Big 8 in 1981.  He was not drafted into the NFL but signed a free agent contract with the Chiefs, playing two seasons before injuries ended his career.

McNorton still ranks fourth in KU history in career tackles.

Who’s the greater Jayhawk? Log your vote in the comments. Check out the other matchups here.