Biography
Abner Haynes, born on September 19, 1937, is a former professional American football player who achieved notable success as a running back in the National Football League (NFL) and the American Football League (AFL). He played college football at North Texas State University, where he demonstrated exceptional skill and athleticism, paving the way for his future career in professional football. Haynes was selected in the 1960 AFL Draft by the Dallas Texans, marking the beginning of a prominent football career.
During his time in the AFL, Haynes quickly established himself as one of the league's premier running backs. He was a two-time AFL All-Star and earned the distinction of being the first player to score a touchdown in the inaugural game of the American Football League in 1960. Over his career, he amassed impressive statistics, including over 4,000 rushing yards and 20 career touchdowns, leaving a significant mark on both the Dallas Texans and the subsequent Kansas City Chiefs franchise after the Texans relocated.
Haynes's contributions to the game have been recognized post-retirement through his induction into the Texas Sports Hall of Fame in 1984. His legacy as an innovative and dynamic player continues to be celebrated by fans and historians of the sport, especially for his role in the early days of the AFL, which laid the foundation for the modern NFL. Haynes's impact on football endures, inspiring future generations of running backs.