During his NFL career, Willard stepped onto the field in 132 contests and gained 6,105 yards on the ground. He was handed the football 1,622 times to the tune of 3.8 yards per carry. He averaged 46.3 yards per contest and crossed the goal line 45 times as a runner. Willard fumbled the ball 0 times in his career.
Willard rushed for 0.0 yards on the ground per contest. He rushed for 0 TDs in his last year for 0 yards. His average yards per carry sat at 0.0 and he carried the ball 0 different times in his last season. Willard ran for 0 yards carrying the ball in 0 games played in his last season. Ken Willard is a name that resonates with many NFL enthusiasts, particularly those who remember the golden era of football in the 1960s and 1970s. As a formidable running back, Willard carved out a niche for himself in the NFL, showcasing a blend of power, agility, and intelligence on the field. This article delves into the life and career of Ken Willard, exploring his journey from college standout to NFL star.
Early Life and College Career
Born on July 14, 1943, in Richmond, Virginia, Ken Willard grew up with a passion for sports. His athletic prowess was evident from a young age, and he excelled in multiple sports during his high school years. However, it was football that truly captured his heart.
College Days at North Carolina
Ken Willard attended the University of North Carolina, where he played college football for the Tar Heels. During his time at UNC, Willard was a standout player, known for his powerful running style and versatility on the field. He played both as a fullback and a halfback, showcasing his ability to block, run, and catch the ball effectively.
His performance at North Carolina did not go unnoticed. Willard was named an All-American, cementing his reputation as one of the top college football players of his time. His success in college set the stage for a promising professional career in the NFL.
NFL Career: San Francisco 49ers and St. Louis Cardinals
Ken Willard’s entry into the NFL was marked by high expectations, and he did not disappoint. In 1965, he was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers as the second overall pick in the NFL Draft. This marked the beginning of an illustrious NFL career that spanned a decade.
Dominant Years with the San Francisco 49ers
Willard spent the majority of his NFL career with the San Francisco 49ers, playing for them from 1965 to 1973. During his time with the 49ers, he established himself as one of the most reliable and consistent running backs in the league. His combination of size, speed, and strength made him a formidable opponent for any defense.
Willard’s ability to break tackles and gain crucial yards earned him four Pro Bowl selections during his tenure with the 49ers. He was not only a powerful runner but also a valuable asset in the passing game, providing the team with a dual-threat option that kept defenses on their toes.
Final Seasons with the St. Louis Cardinals
In 1974, Ken Willard was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals, where he played the final two seasons of his NFL career. Although his time with the Cardinals was relatively short, he continued to demonstrate his skills and contribute to the team’s success.
Career Highlights and Legacy
Ken Willard’s NFL career was marked by numerous achievements and accolades. Over the course of his ten-year career, he amassed impressive statistics that solidified his place in NFL history.
Statistics and Accolades
Pro Bowl Selections: Willard was selected to the Pro Bowl four times (1965, 1966, 1968, and 1969), highlighting his consistent performance and impact on the field.
Rushing Yards: Throughout his career, Willard accumulated over 6,000 rushing yards, showcasing his ability to gain tough yards and sustain drives.
Touchdowns: He scored a total of 45 rushing touchdowns, further demonstrating his knack for finding the end zone and contributing to his team’s scoring efforts.
Legacy and Impact
Ken Willard’s legacy in the NFL is one of excellence and dedication. His impact on the game extends beyond his impressive statistics. Willard was known for his work ethic, leadership, and sportsmanship, qualities that endeared him to teammates and fans alike.
His ability to perform consistently at a high level set a standard for running backs who followed in his footsteps. Willard’s versatility as both a rusher and receiver made him a valuable asset to any team, and his contributions to the game continue to be remembered by football enthusiasts.
Life After Football
After retiring from professional football, Ken Willard transitioned into a successful career outside of the sport. He pursued various business ventures and remained involved in the football community through coaching and mentoring young athletes.
Willard’s dedication to the game and his desire to give back to the community have made him a respected figure both on and off the field. He continues to inspire future generations of athletes with his story of perseverance, hard work, and success.
Conclusion
Ken Willard’s journey from a talented college player to a celebrated NFL running back is a testament to his skill, determination, and passion for the game. His contributions to the San Francisco 49ers and the St. Louis Cardinals have left an indelible mark on the NFL, and his legacy continues to be celebrated by fans and players alike.
Whether through his impressive statistics, his leadership on the field, or his dedication to mentoring young athletes, Ken Willard remains an iconic figure in the world of football. His story serves as an inspiration to all who aspire to achieve greatness in the sport.