Lynn Chandnois

Who was Lynn Chandnois?

Lynn Chandnois was a standout professional American football player who earned All-American honors for the Michigan State Spartans in 1949, the NFL Player of the Year award for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1952, and played twice in the Pro Bowl.

After both his parents died, Lynn, who was born in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, moved to Flint to live with an aunt and attend school.

He earned All-State honors at Flint Central High School in basketball and football. After graduating in 1944, he joined the United States Naval Air Corps and served for two years.

Chandnois a 6 ft. 2 in. 195 lb half back, defensive back and kick returner attended Michigan State University and was a four-year football standout for the Spartans. He also played basketball for one year. He ranks first in career pass interceptions and interception return yardage, and was the team’s MVP in 1948 and an All-American in 1949. He was the State of Michigan’s Outstanding Amateur Athlete in 1950.

He was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the 1950 NFL Draft. He played in seven NFL seasons with the Steelers from 1950 to 1956.

Lynn died on April 19, 2011 in Flint, Michigan, survived by his wife Paulette, daughters Lynda Harris of Grand Blanc, Michigan, and Suzanne Arnold of Prescott, Arizona.