NFL Great & Hall of Famer with Ties to Colorado City Passes at 86
Don Maynard may not be a household name, but his tenure in pro football made him a legend and hall-of-famer. Maynard passed away today at the age of 86.
In his early years, Maynard's family constantly moved due to his father's occupation as a cotton broker. He attended 4 different high schools before making Colorado City High School his final stop. While he was a multi-sport athlete, Maynard wasn't able to play football at Colorado City High School until his senior year.
Following high school, Maynard played for Rice University for a year before transferring to Texas Western College, which is now the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). He was a stand-out receiver, running back, and punt/kick return specialist for coach Slingin' Sammy Baugh.
In 1957, the New York "Football" Giants selected Maynard in the NFL draft. He played for the Giants before a short stint in the Canadian Football League. In 1960, after working as a plumber and teacher for a couple of years, Maynard became the first player selected by the New York Titans in the upstart AFL as he rejoined his college coach, Sammy Baugh.
The Titans eventually became the Jets. Maynard's amazing ability made Joe Namath look like a legend from the get-go and the rest, as they say, is pro football history. Among some of Maynard's accomplishments were being a Super Bowl champion, AFL champion, and pro football hall of fame member. The Jets even retired his number 13.
Today, Don Maynard passed away at the age of 86 and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, and fans. The video at the top is a tribute, to Don, from the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Rest in Peace, Don.
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