Former Pro Bowl running back Abner Haynes died at age 86.
His former college, North Texas, confirmed the news on Thursday. Haynes passed away in Dallas.
Along with Leon King, Haynes became the first Black player to play integrated college football at a major Texas program, Haynes ran for 2,443 yards and 23 touchdowns with the Mean Green from 1957 to 1959.
UNT named the All-American to its Hall of Fame in 1986. The school also honored Haynes and King by opening the Unity Plaza in 2022.
Drafted by the UFL and NFL in 1960, Haynes began his professional career as the AFL Player of the Year. He tallied a league-leading 875 rushing yards and eight rushing touchdowns for the Dallas Texans.
Haynes made his second straight Pro Bowl when scoring 19 touchdowns in 1962. The back powered Dallas to a title with two scores in a championship win over the Houston Oilers.
The following year, the Texans rebranded as the Kansas City Chiefs. Haynes scored 13 touchdowns over the next two seasons before joining the Denver Broncos for two seasons.
Ending his career with the Miami Dolphins and New York Jets in 1967, Haynes finished with 66 touchdowns and 4.5 yards per carry in 112 games. His number 28 has been retired by the Chiefs.
“Sad day to hear of the passing of Mean Green legend and pioneer Abner Haynes,” UNT Vice President and Director of Athletics Jared Mosley wrote. “His impact at UNT will never be forgotten. Thoughts and prayers are with the Haynes family.”
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