George McGowan

Class of 2003


George McGowan began his football career while at high school in California. After high school and junior college, McGowan continued his football career with Kansas University.

After a brief stint in the NFL, the Edmonton Eskimos signed McGowan in 1971. His eight year career with the Eskimos produced record statistics. In 1973 and 1975, he led the western division in pass receptions with 81 and 98 respectively. McGowan surpassed the 1000-yard pass receiving mark three times in his eight year career, 1972 with 1,014 yards and 11 touchdowns, 1973 with 1,123 yards and 9 touchdowns, and 1975 with 1,472 yards and 8 touchdowns. At the time of his retirement in 1978, he held the CFL record for the second highest pass receptions in a regular season game with 15 receptions for 249 yards.

George McGowan won many awards and honours throughout his career and played in five Grey Cups, winning twice.

Playing Career

Edmonton Eskimos
1971 - 1978

Awards/Honours

  • All-Western Receiver
    1973, 1975, 1976
  • All-Canadian Receiver
    1973, 1975, 1976
  • Jeff Nicklin Award
    1973
  • Schenley Award for Most Outstanding Player
    1973
  • Comeback Player of the Year
    1975
  • Grey Cup Participation
    1973 - 1975, 1977, 1978
  • Grey Cup Winning Teams
    1975, 1978