The Kansas City Chiefs have had one of the most dominant teams in the past half-decade. However, they also have a rich history that traces all the way back to the American Football League (AFL). The team was originally called the Dallas Texans before moving to Kansas City in 1963. They lost a legend of the franchise today. The team announced today that running back and return specialist Abner Haynes has passed away at the age of 86.
Kansas City Chiefs RB Abner Haynes Passes Away
Abner Haynes was a part of the first season of the franchise in 1960. His rookie season was one for the record books. He had the most touchdowns in a rookie season (12), the most points by a non-kicker in a rookie season (72), the most points in a game (30), the most touchdowns in a game (five), and the most rushing touchdowns in a game (four). These records are still held by Haynes today. Chiefs CEO Clark Hunt had this to say about the passing of the franchise legend.
“My family and I are deeply saddened by the passing of Chiefs Hall of Famer Abner Haynes. Abner was one of the first great stars of the Dallas Texans and the American Football League. In the league’s first season in 1960, Abner earned Rookie of the Year and Player of the Year honors, and more importantly, he earned the respect and admiration of his teammates and fans alike.
In addition to his on-the-field prowess, Abner was a man of courage and leadership from a very young age. He remained involved in the community well after his playing days were over, and his legacy extends far beyond the gridiron. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Guadalupe and his entire family during this difficult time.”
Honors And Legacy
Abner Haynes attended North Texas State College which is now the University of North Texas. He earned All-Missouri Valley Conference honors twice and was an All-American in 1959. His college career was historic as he and his teammate Leon King were the first African American players to play on an integrated team in the state of Texas. In the AFL, Haynes won Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year during the league’s inaugural season.
His 8,473 career combined net yards is sixth in team history. Following his time with the Kansas City Chiefs, he played with the Denver Broncos, New York Jets and Miami Dolphins. In 1986, he was inducted into the North Texas Athletic Hall of Fame. The Kansas City Chiefs followed that up by inducting him into the team’s Hall of Fame in 1991. His number 28 is only one of ten that has been retired by the team.
Abner Haynes broke down barriers in the game of football and is still in the record books for the franchise. Our condolences are with his family as they mourn the passing of this legendary man.
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