Bob Hayes
Inducted:
2009
Player Stats
5 ft 11 in (1.80 m)
185 lb (84 kg)
Born:
December 20, 1942
Jacksonville, Florida, US
Died:
September 18, 2002
Jacksonville, Florida, US
Position:
Wide receiver
College:
Florida A&M (1962–1964)
Bob “Bullet” Hayes was a rare breed of athlete—elite sprinter turned game-changing wide receiver. After winning Olympic gold medals in the 100-meter dash and the 4×100 relay at the 1964 Tokyo Games, he joined the Dallas Cowboys in 1965. His electrifying speed redefined the wide receiver role, forcing defenses to develop zone coverages. Hayes dominated the field, leading the league in touchdown receptions and yards per catch multiple times, and becoming a key offensive weapon.
He helped the Cowboys win Super Bowl VI and ended his career holding several team records. Although career and life challenges delayed recognition, his extraordinary impact was eventually honored with induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2009. Known for stretching defenses and changing how the passing game was played, Bob Hayes remains the only athlete ever to capture both Olympic gold and a Super Bowl ring.
Hayes' Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (VI)
- 2 × First-team All-Pro (1966, 1968)
- Second-team All-Pro (1967)
- 3 × Pro Bowl (1965–1967)
- 2 × NFL receiving touchdowns leader (1965, 1966)
- Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor
NFL Records
- Only athlete to win both Olympic gold and a Super Bowl ring
- Changed the NFL with his game-breaking speed and forced defensive strategies to evolve
- Held team records for touchdowns and receiving efficiency
- Revered by peers and acknowledged for redefining the wide receiver position
NFL Teams
Dallas Cowboys (1965–1974)
San Francisco 49ers (1975)