Christian G. Hanburger Jr. was born on August 13, 1941, in Fort Bragg, North Carolina. His father served as a colonel in the U.S. Army. After high school, Hanburger joined the Army and served for two years. Following his service, he attended the University of North Carolina, playing college football as a center and linebacker. He earned all-conference honors and was recognized as a team leader. In 1965, he was drafted by the Washington Redskins. He played 14 seasons with the team, becoming a full-time starter by his second year. Hanburger was known for his intelligence on the field and leadership on defense. He called defensive signals and had over 100 audibles to adjust plays. He earned nine Pro Bowl selections, the most in Redskins history, and was named All-Pro four times. In 1972, his defense helped the Redskins win the NFC championship. Hanburger retired in 1978 and later owned an auto dealership. In 2011, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Hanburger is remembered in Fort Bragg as a local who rose to professional football success.
Christian G. Hanburger Jr. was born on August 13, 1941, in Fort Bragg, North Carolina. His father served as a colonel in the U.S. Army. After high school, Hanburger joined the Army and served for two years. Following his service, he attended the University of North Carolina, playing college football as a center and linebacker. He earned all-conference honors and was recognized as a team leader. In 1965, he was drafted by the Washington Redskins. He played 14 seasons with the team, becoming a full-time starter by his second year. Hanburger was known for his intelligence on the field and leadership on defense. He called defensive signals and had over 100 audibles to adjust plays. He earned nine Pro Bowl selections, the most in Redskins history, and was named All-Pro four times. In 1972, his defense helped the Redskins win the NFC championship. Hanburger retired in 1978 and later owned an auto dealership. In 2011, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Hanburger is remembered in Fort Bragg as a local who rose to professional football success.
A native of Fort Bragg, Hanburger attended Hampton High School, where he played football.
The Washington Redskins selected Chris Hanburger with the 245th overall pick in the 18th round of the 1965 NFL draft.
