Don Maynard
Inducted:
1987
Player Stats
6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
180 lb (82 kg)
Born:
January 25, 1935
Crosbyton, Texas, U.S.
Died:
January 10, 2022
Ruidoso, New Mexico, U.S.
Position:
Wide receiver
College:
Texas Western
Don Maynard was one of the most prolific wide receivers in NFL history, known for his speed, route-running, and big-play ability. Beginning his career with the New York Giants in 1958, he later became a star with the New York Jets, where he was a central figure in their high-powered offense. Maynard helped revolutionize the deep passing game, stretching defenses and creating scoring opportunities with his precise routes and explosive acceleration.
Over his career, he amassed more than 11,000 receiving yards and 88 touchdowns, ranking among the league’s all-time leaders at the time of his retirement. He was a key member of the Jets’ legendary Super Bowl III victory, contributing to one of the most famous upsets in NFL history. A seven-time Pro Bowler, Maynard’s consistency and impact on the passing game set a standard for future generations of wideouts.
Don Maynard was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987, honoring his enduring influence on the NFL.
Maynard's Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (III)
- AFL champion (1968)
- 2× First-team All-AFL (1968, 1969)
- 3× Second-team All-AFL (1960, 1965, 1967)
- 4× AFL All-Star (1965, 1967–1969)
- AFL receiving touchdowns co-leader (1965)
NFL Records
- Key receiver in Jets’ Super Bowl III upset
- One of the first receivers to consistently stretch defenses deep
- Held multiple all-time receiving records upon retirement
NFL Teams
New York Giants (1958)
Hamilton Tiger-Cats (1959)
New York Titans / Jets (1960–1972)
St. Louis Cardinals (1973)
Los Angeles Rams (1973)
Houston Texans (1974)
NFL Draft:
1957: 9th round, 109th overall pick
New York Giants
Number Worn:
13
NFL Stats
Seasons:
14 (1958–1973)
Games Played:
186
Game Started:
159
Receptions:
633
Receiving yards:
11,834
Touchdowns:
88