Biography
Rueben Mayes, born on June 6, 1963, in Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada, is a former professional American football running back who made significant contributions to the NFL during his career in the late 1980s and early 1990s. He played college football at Washington State University, where he set several school records, including the most rushing yards in a single game. His impressive performance earned him a selection in the third round of the 1986 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints.
Mayes spent the majority of his NFL career with the New Orleans Saints, where he quickly established himself as a key player in the team's offense. He is best known for his breakout season in 1986, during which he rushed for 1,353 yards and scored eight touchdowns, earning him a Pro Bowl selection. Mayes continued to perform at a high level throughout his career, culminating in a second consecutive Pro Bowl appearance in 1987.
After retiring from professional football, Rueben Mayes returned to his roots, focusing on community service and youth mentorship, particularly in Saskatchewan. His contributions to the sport and the community have solidified his legacy as one of Canada's notable athletes. In 2019, he was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame, acknowledging his impact on both football in Canada and the NFL.