This February, Sports Illustrated is celebrating Black History Month by spotlighting a different iconic athlete or group of athletes every day. Today, SI looks back on the legacy of George Taliaferro.
George Taliaferro was the first African-American player drafted by an NFL team when he was picked by the Chicago Bears in 1949.
Taliaferro was a standout, three-time All-American at Indiana University, leading the Hoosiers to their only undefeated season in the program's history. He was one of the best players in collegiate football and played several positions, including halfback, quarterback, defensive back and kicker.