The sports world is mourning the loss of Abner Haynes, a legendary figure in professional football who has passed away at the age of 86. A former AFL star, Haynes left an indelible mark on the Kansas City Chiefs, earning a revered spot in the Chiefs Ring of Honor and securing his place as one of the greatest players in the franchise's history.
Known for his exceptional prowess on the field, Abner Haynes began his career with a bang, earning the league's Rookie of the Year honors in 1960. That same year, he became the first player ever awarded the AFC Player of the Year. His impressive statistics from the season included leading the AFL in attempts, rushing yards, touchdown runs, and total touches.
Haynes' remarkable talent and determination were further showcased in 1962 when he achieved 1,049 rushing yards and 13 touchdown runs. He also caught 39 passes for 573 yards and six touchdowns, underscoring his versatility and value as a multi-faceted player. That year's AFL title game saw Haynes scoring two critical touchdowns, leading the then-Dallas Texans to a thrilling 20-17 victory over Houston.
Abner Haynes' professional career spanned eight years, during which he accumulated an impressive total of 12,065 yards. His contributions were not limited to the Kansas City Chiefs; he also played for the Broncos, Dolphins, and Jets. Reflective of his immense impact and legacy, the Chiefs retired his No. 28 jersey, and his alma mater, North Texas, followed suit, retiring his number as well.
Reflecting on Haynes' monumental career, Clark Hunt, Chairman and CEO of the Chiefs, stated, "Abner was one of the first great stars of the Dallas Texans and the American Football League. He earned the respect and admiration of his teammates and fans alike." Hunt also noted Haynes' character off the field, adding, "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."
Haynes' influence was not only recognized by team management but also by his coaches and peers. Former Chiefs Hall of Fame coach Hank Stram highlighted Haynes' comprehensive skill set and leadership, saying, "He was a franchise player before they talked about franchise players. He did it all -- rushing, receiving, kickoff returns, punt returns. He gave us the dimension we needed to be a good team in Dallas."
Even after his football career ended, Abner Haynes continued to serve his community, embodying the same spirit of dedication and leadership that had defined his years on the field. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will undoubtedly live on in the annals of football history and in the hearts of those who witnessed his greatness.