The first black starting quarterback in the American Football League passed away Monday.
He died of pneumonia at a hospital in California, according to his daughter. He was in the hospital with circulation issues.
The Denver Broncos drafted a quarterback in the 14th round of the 1968 draft, but he was not a starter. If he couldn't get a tryout at quarterback, he would return to his hometown to become a teacher. The Magician made the starting lineup on Oct. 6 after auditioning in Denver.
He started five games that year. He was runner-up for the rookies of the year after passing for 1,589 yards and 14 touchdown.
He asked to be released because he wasn't given a chance to compete for the quarterback job. He played for the Buffalo Bills and the Miami Dolphins. The 1972 Dolphins team had a perfect season.
The College Football Hall of Fame has a Hall of Fame for football players.
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