The sports world is in mourning today as it bids farewell to Abner Haynes, a former AFL star and Kansas City Chiefs legend, who passed away at the age of 86. Haynes leaves behind a storied legacy characterized by remarkable athletic achievements, leadership, and community service.
Haynes, a trailblazer in the American Football League (AFL), earned the league's Rookie of the Year honors in 1960, a year that also saw him becoming the first player ever awarded the AFC Player of the Year. His performance that inaugural year was nothing short of outstanding; he led the AFL in attempts, rushing yards, touchdown runs, and total touches. These early accomplishments set the stage for an illustrious career that concluded with Haynes amassing a total of 12,065 yards.
The Kansas City Chiefs, then known as the Dallas Texans, owe a significant part of their early success to Haynes. In 1962, the Texans clinched a dramatic 20-17 victory over Houston in the AFL title game, with Haynes scoring two pivotal touchdowns. That season, he achieved 1,049 rushing yards and 13 touchdown runs, in addition to catching 39 passes for 573 yards and six touchdowns.
Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt reminisced about Haynes, saying, "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 further added, "In addition to his on-the-field prowess, Abner was a man of courage and leadership from a very young age."
Beyond his contributions to the Texans, Haynes had stints with the Broncos, Dolphins, and Jets, showcasing his versatility and skill across different franchises. Former Chiefs Hall of Fame coach Hank Stram once noted, "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."
Honoring his indelible impact, the Kansas City Chiefs retired his No. 28 jersey, and North Texas followed suit, retiring his number in recognition of his collegiate achievements. Haynes was also inducted into the Chiefs Ring of Honor, further cementing his status as a football icon.
Haynes’ influence extended well beyond the gridiron. Even after his eight-year professional career came to an end, he continued to serve and uplift his community, embodying the same leadership and vigor that defined his time in the AFL. Reflecting on this, Hunt said, "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."
As the sports world reflects on the life and legacy of Abner Haynes, it remembers a man whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the game of football and the many lives he touched through his community involvement. His story is one of talent, determination, and unwavering commitment to excellence, both on and off the field.