Texas Longhorns Legend and NFL No. 1 Pick Kenneth Sims Passes Away at 65
Kenneth Sims, the No. 1 overall pick in the 1982 NFL Draft and a legendary figure in Texas Longhorns football, tragically passed away in his sleep on Friday at the age of 65 after battling an illness. The news was first reported by Chip Brown of 247Sports and was later confirmed by the New England Patriots in a statement released on social media.
A native of Groesbeck, Texas, Sims played defensive tackle at the University of Texas from 1978 to 1981. Early in his career, he served as a backup to Pro Football Hall of Famer Steve McMichael and Bill Acker. However, Sims soon emerged as a dominant force on the field. In his junior and senior seasons, he established himself as one of the top defensive players in the country, earning widespread recognition for his powerful play and relentless drive.
Sims’ standout college career led to his selection as the first overall pick in the 1982 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots. This draft class also included future NFL stars such as Jim McMahon, Mike Munchak, Marcus Allen, and Morten Andersen. Sims made an immediate impact in the NFL, finishing fifth in the voting for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. Over the course of his eight seasons with the Patriots, Sims became a key member of the team’s defense, earning a reputation as a tough and unyielding player in the trenches.
Sims’ contributions to the University of Texas football program were honored in 1997 when he was inducted into the Longhorn Hall of Honor, an acknowledgment of his tremendous success both in college and the NFL.
His passing has left a deep void in the football community. Sims is remembered not only for his talent on the field but also for his leadership and character. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of athletes, particularly at the University of Texas, where he will always be remembered as a legend.
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