Chiefs Hall of Famer Abner Haynes, 1960 AFL MVP, Passes Away at 86

Abner Haynes, a former AFL MVP and standout running back, passed away on Thursday, July 18, 2024, in Dallas. He was 86 years old.

The Kansas City Chiefs announced Haynes’ death but did not provide further details.

Haynes played a significant role for the Dallas Texans from 1960 to 1962, and continued with the franchise when it became the Kansas City Chiefs, playing from 1963 to 1964.

During his time with the Chiefs, Haynes rushed for 3,814 yards and 39 touchdowns, caught 199 passes for 2,739 yards and 17 touchdowns, and made notable contributions on special teams. He was inducted into the Chiefs Hall of Honor in 1991.

In 1960, Haynes was named both Rookie of the Year and Player of the Year, marking a standout season in the league’s inaugural year. He also set career highs with 1,049 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns in 1962.

Haynes’ career extended beyond the Chiefs, with stints at the Denver Broncos, Miami Dolphins, and New York Jets. He finished his career with 4,630 rushing yards, 46 touchdowns, and 3,535 receiving yards on 287 receptions.

Chiefs CEO Clark Hunt expressed condolences, highlighting Haynes’ impact both on and off the field. “Abner was one of the first great stars of the Dallas Texans and the American Football League,” Hunt said. “His legacy extends far beyond the gridiron.”

Haynes, who played college football at North Texas, was a trailblazer, being one of the first African Americans to play college football on an integrated team in Texas. He was inducted into the North Texas Athletic Hall of Fame in 1986.