Johnny Lujack, legendary Notre Dame quarterback, defensive back and Heisman Trophy winner, died Tuesday at the age of 98.
Bowman In a storied football tradition, Lujack stands out among the many legends to suit up for the Irish. Though Lujack had a successful four-year NFL career with the Chicago Bears, who drafted him fourth overall in the 1948 NFL Draft, he is best known for his time with the Irish. Lujack led the Irish to national championships in 1943, 1946 and 1947 despite a three-year break from his football career to serve in the Navy.
Lujack took over as the Irish quarterback after the Marine Corps called Heisman winner Angelo Bertelli into service. He finished his playing career at Notre Dame on a high note, winning the Heisman Trophy in 1947. Lujack completed 55.9% of his passes for nine touchdowns while adding another on the ground. He led the Irish to a second straight championship. Named a unanimous All-American in 1946 and 1947, Lujack lost just once in his career when the Irish fell to the Great Lakes Naval Training Station.
Lujack is one of seven Irish players to win the Heisman, along with Bertelli, Leon Hart, Johnny Lattner, Paul Hornung, John Huarte and Tim Brown.
In the NFL, Lujack played all over the field, from quarterback to defensive back and even kicker. He earned Pro Bowls honors twice and All-Pro honors once in 1950. He also returned to Notre Dame, spending two seasons as an assistant coach. Lujack was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1960.
Lujack, born in Connellsville, Pennsylvania on Jan. 4, 1925, is survived by his children, Mary and Jeff, and four grandchildren. His wife, Patricia Ann “Pat” passed away in 2022. Johnny and Pat’s daughter, Carol, passed away in 2002.
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