BILLY HOBBS - INDUCTEE #78
hall of fame fast fact:
Billy Hobbs was Amarillo's first All-America football player and is the city's highest draft pick, taken in the second round of the 1969 NFL draft by the Philadelphia Eagles.
Billy Hobbs
Billy Hobbs was an all-state player on two powerhouse Tascosa teams, a two-time All-American linebacker for the Aggies, and an NFL linebacker for six seasons.
He was a standout defensive end and tight end for the Rebels, who made consecutive appearances in the 4A state semifinals in 1963 and 1964.
He started at A&M in 1966 and 1967; he helped lead a remarkable turnaround, including the Southwest Conference title. In 1967, Hobbs averaged 19 tackles and intercepted seven passes, including one for 100 yards for a touchdown against TCU. Twice, he was named first-team All-American.
Hobbs played three years for the Eagles and went on to become captain for New England and New Orleans before playing two years in the World Football League.
He retired in 1975.
After his football career, for 25 years, he surrendered to full-time Christian ministry to preach, work with youth, run Faith City Mission, and do mission work in Africa.
Hobbs was killed in a motorcycle-car accident in 2004 at 57.
