George Paul Platukis (March 15, 1915–May 17, 1973) was an American football end who played five seasons in the National Football League (NFL) with the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cleveland Rams. He later became a high school teacher and baseball coach.
Early life
Platukis was born in West Hazleton, Pennsylvania and attended West Hazleton High School.
He matriculated at Duquesne University.
Football career
Platukis was selected by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the sixth round of the 1938 NFL Draft. He played for the Pirates (renamed the Steelers in 1941) for four seasons.
Platukis was traded by the Pittsburgh Steelers in August 1942 to the Cleveland Rams in exchange for John Binotto and Milt Simington. He spent a final season with the Rams.
Post-football career
After completing his football career, Platukis returned to Hazleton, Pennsylvania where he became a high school teacher and head baseball coach at his alma mater, West Hazleton High School.
Personal life
Platukis was married to Irene Pekala. The couple had four children: George Jr., Paulette, Paul and James. He was an ardent fisherman. He died of an apparent heart attack on May 17, 1973, while on a fishing trip near his home with his son and grandson.