Biography
Steve Owens, born on December 9, 1947, is a former professional American football player who excelled as a running back in the National Football League (NFL). Owens played college football at the University of Oklahoma, where he became known for his power running style and exceptional performance, earning recognition as a consensus All-American. He was selected in the second round of the 1970 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions.
Throughout his NFL career, which spanned from 1970 to 1975, Owens was a key contributor to his team's offense. He achieved particular prominence during the 1970 season when he rushed for over 1,000 yards, making him the first player in Lions history to accomplish this feat. His performance earned him the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award and established him as a formidable player in the league.
After retiring from professional football, Owens left a lasting legacy as a pioneer for future generations of running backs. His contributions to the game were recognized when he was inducted into the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame. Steve Owens remains an enduring figure in the history of the Detroit Lions and is celebrated for his significant impact both on and off the field.