McCann began his career in football as an assistant coach at the University of North Carolina in 1947. He then moved to the NFL, where he served as an assistant coach for the Philadelphia Eagles and the Green Bay Packers. His coaching career culminated in his appointment as the head coach of the Washington Redskins in 1950. Under his leadership, the Redskins improved their performance significantly, finishing second in their conference in 1950 and 1952.
In 1954, McCann transitioned into a management role, becoming the general manager of the Redskins. He was instrumental in recruiting talented players and building a strong team that consistently performed well in the league. His tenure as general manager was marked by a focus on player development and a commitment to building a winning team.
McCann's influence extended beyond the Redskins when he became one of the founding fathers of the AFL in 1960. As the league's first commissioner, he played a crucial role in establishing the AFL as a viable competitor to the NFL. He helped to negotiate television contracts, secure stadiums, and attract high-quality players to the league. His leadership and vision were instrumental in the AFL's early success and its eventual merger with the NFL.
Despite his significant contributions to football, McCann's career was cut short by illness. He was forced to resign as AFL commissioner in 1962 due to cancer and passed away later that year. However, his impact on the sport continues to be felt today. His efforts to build competitive teams and to grow the sport at the professional level have left a lasting legacy in American football.
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