Bobby Hunt, a former versatile football player for the Auburn Tigers, has passed away at the age of 85. The Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, which honored Hunt as an inductee in 2015, confirmed his passing. In a message shared on Facebook, the hall expressed, “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.” However, the cause of Hunt’s death has not been publicly disclosed.
During his time at Lanett High School in Alabama, Hunt showcased his skills as both a quarterback and a defensive back. He also took on roles as a punter and punt returner.
Hunt continued to display his diverse talents at Auburn University, playing as both quarterback and safety under coach Ralph “Shug” Jordan. His abilities drew attention from Alabama coach Paul “Bear” Bryant, who praised him as “just a great football player.”
Hunt’s football journey took him to the professional leagues when the Dallas Texans selected him in the 11th round of the 1962 American Football League draft. As a rookie, Hunt focused on the safety position, achieving eight interceptions and earning first-team All-AFL honors. The Texans then moved to Kansas City, Missouri, in 1963, becoming the Chiefs.
Hunt was part of the Chiefs’ starting lineup when they faced the Green Bay Packers in the inaugural Super Bowl three seasons later. He eventually concluded his career with a two-year tenure at the Cincinnati Bengals, playing in a total of 112 games and making 42 interceptions.
Following his retirement from playing, Hunt transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant with the Buffalo Bills.