It’s a sad day in the NFL, especially for the Kansas City Chiefs family, as Hall of Famer Abner Haynes has died at the age of 86. A member of the original American Football Conference (AFL) team, the Dallas Texans, started his career in 1960 as the league itself.
He was a star running back and a return specialist, named to the AFL’s All-AFL team three consecutive years from 1960-62 and was the league’s first Rookie of the Year. The Kansas City Chiefs issued a statement where they mention the significant loss for their family and the league.
Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt remembered Haynes and expressed the Hunt family’s condolences. “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,” Hunt said