Football's Papa Bear is a reference to George Halas, an American professional football player, coach, and team owner. He was the founder, owner, and head coach of the National Football League's Chicago Bears. Halas was one of the co-founders of the NFL and was instrumental in developing the league into what it is today. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963 and is widely regarded as one of the greatest coaches in NFL history.