Philip Jacob Handler was born on July 21, 1908, in Fort Worth, Texas. He grew up in a Jewish family with Lithuanian roots. Handler attended Texas Christian University, where he played college football and earned All-Southwest Conference honors. He began his professional career with the Chicago Cardinals in 1930, despite doubts about his size. Handler played in the NFL for seven years and was named All-Pro four times.
Handler’s coaching career began with the Cardinals in 1937. He later served as the team’s head coach during World War II. He was part of the Cardinals’ staff when they won the NFL Championship in 1947. Handler became a key figure with the Chicago Bears in 1952, contributing to their 1963 NFL Championship.
Handler moved to Skokie, Illinois, where he spent his final years. He passed away at home in Skokie on December 8, 1968, after a Bears game. His death was widely mourned by the sports community. Handler’s impact on Chicago football was significant, and his legacy continues through various sports halls of fame. His family, including a grandson named after him, continued to honor his contributions to the sport.
