Dr. Daniel John Fortmann was a professional American football offensive lineman in the National Football League for the Chicago Bears. He played college football at Colgate University and was drafted in the ninth round of the 1936 NFL Draft. According to legend, Bears' owner George Halas, reportedly drafted Fortmann because his name had a good, solid football ring to it. Uncertain as to whether to go to medical school or play football, Halas convinced Fortmann that he could do both. Dan enrolled at the University of Chicago, where he obtained his degree in 1940. He interned in Detroit and completed his surgical training in Pittsburgh. He then set up as a surgeon in Burbank, California, where he became the team physician for the Los Angeles Rams from 1947-1963. Fortmann was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1965. He was selected as an All-Pro guard for six consecutive years. 

April 11th, 1916 in New York  /  Died:   May 23rd, 1995