Willie Buchanon

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Willie Buchanon

Football Career Highlights

"Willie B"

1979-82 San Diego Chargers and 1972-78 Green Bay Packers - Defensive Back

Willie was an All-American and rated the top cornerback prospect of the 1970s while at San Diego State University, he certainly lived up to expectations when Green Bay made him their first pick in 1972. With his great athletic ability and dedication, he became a starter during the pre-season and went on to be named the AP Defensive Rookie of the Year. A perennial All-Pro candidate throughout his Packer career, Willie was selected to the Pro Bowl squad for his great play in 1974 and 1978. He is a member of the Green Bay Packer Hall of Fame.

Mr. Buchanon was named as one of only two corner backs on the 50 greatest Collegiate Football players of all time Team by the Sporting News. Of course he is the only SDSU player named to the team. Called by former Coach Don Coryell the "best defensive back I ever coached".

In 1979 he joined a San Diego defense which included greats Fred Dean, Louie Kelcher, and Gary "Big Hands" Johnson. In his career, Willie had 28 interceptions and scored three touchdowns. He led the NFL in interceptions in 1978 with nine, and as a rookie was tied for the league led with four.

High School: Oceanside (CA) - Jr. College: MiraCosta College: San Diego State

Drafted: First Round, Green Bay, 1972

Other Highlights

Mr. Buchanon graduated from SDSU with his degree in Education and was named as a Distinguished Alumni of the Year by the School of Education. Mr. Buchanon served as a Board Member of the Aztec Athletic Foundation and is a former President of the organization. Mr. Buchanon has served the community in numerous capacities over the years and he is truly a role model kids and adults can look up to.

Willie earned well-deserved honors from the Green Bay Packers when he was inducted into the Packers Hall of Fame. After his return to San Diego with the Chargers, he remained in the San Diego area.

Willie currently resides in Oceanside, California. He and wife Gwen have two children, Jenae and William. Willie enjoys golf, softball, and music.

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