Abner Haynes, a revered halfback for the Kansas City Chiefs and luminary of the American Football League (AFL), died in Dallas, Texas on July 18, 2024, at the age of 86. Haynes was celebrated for his impressive abilities as a runner, receiver, and return specialist, leaving a lasting impression on the sport and his community.
Born in Denton, Texas on September 19, 1937, Haynes set several records and overcame racial barriers during his career. He first garnered attention in 1960 when he was awarded both AFL Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year, making him the inaugural player to receive these distinctions. That same year, Haynes dominated the league in rushing attempts, yards, and touchdowns, securing his reputation as a multifaceted and powerful player.
Throughout his eight-year career, Haynes was praised for his agility and speed. He topped the AFL in numerous statistical categories, such as rushing yards, touchdown runs, total yards, punt return yardage, and kickoff returns for touchdowns. His most productive season started in 1962 when he aided the Dallas Texans (now known as the Kansas City Chiefs) in securing their first AFL title. During this championship season, Haynes rushed for 1,049 yards, scored 13 touchdowns, and caught 39 passes for 573 yards, adding six receiving touchdowns. His two essential touchdowns in the Texans’ 20-17 win over the Houston Oilers in the AFL title game were particularly memorable.
“My family and I are profoundly saddened by the loss of Chiefs Hall of Famer Abner Haynes,” said Chiefs chairman and CEO Clark Hunt. “Abner was one of the pioneering stars of the Dallas Texans and the American Football League, earning the deep respect and admiration of his teammates and fans alike.”
Haynes’ legacy transcends his on-field achievements. In 1956, he and teammate Leon King integrated the North Texas State College (now the University of North Texas) football team, laying the groundwork for future generations of Black athletes.
Beyond his groundbreaking role in college football, Haynes was a vocal advocate for racial equality. In 1965, he played a pivotal role in the players’ boycott of the AFL All-Star game, which was moved from New Orleans to Houston due to racial discrimination. His position against injustice earned him widespread respect and admiration, solidifying his status as a leader both on and off the field.
“Abner was a player who was ahead of his time,” said the late Hall of Fame Chiefs coach Hank Stram. “He did it all—rushing, receiving, kickoff and punt returns. He gave us the dimension we needed to be a good team in Dallas.”
After retiring from professional football, Haynes continued to be active in his community. He spent his time promoting “Heroes of Football,” a program designed to aid former professional players facing disabilities. His dedication to giving back underscored his character and his enduring impact on those around him.
The sport recognized Haynes’ contributions with various honors. He was inducted into the Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Fame and had his number 28 jersey retired by both the Chiefs and North Texas. In 2019, he was named to the Professional Football Researchers Association Hall of Very Good, acknowledging his significant contributions to the game.
Reflecting on Haynes’ career, his influence on the field is evident in the records he set and the legacy he left behind. Over his eight seasons in the AFL, he amassed 12,065 total yards, an AFL record that remains unbroken. His versatility and skill as a runner, receiver, and returner made him a franchise player before the term was widely used.
“From a young age, Abner demonstrated remarkable courage and leadership,” Hunt continued. “Even after his football career ended, he stayed deeply engaged with the community, leaving a legacy far beyond the football field. Our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Guadalupe, and their entire family during this challenging time.”
