“Floyd Little was a true hero of the game,” said Hall of Fame President David Baker. “He was a man of great integrity, passion, and courage. His contributions outside of the field were even greater than his amazing accomplishments. “
Little was drawn in sixth place in the AFL and NFL’s first joint draft in 1967 and ran for the Broncos from 1967 to 1975. In his career he came to 6,323 yards and 54 touchdowns, he was recognized five times as All Pro and played five times in the Pro Bowl / AFL All Star Game, the final game of the best players of the season. Despite his own outstanding performances, he never reached the playoffs with the Broncos. His number 44 was no longer used by the Broncos and college at Syracuse University. In 2010 he was inducted into the Hall of Fame.
Joe Biden attended university with him
NFL boss Roger Goodell recognized Little as “not just a hall-of-fame running back, but a hall-of-fame person.” Belief that family and football were the pillars of his life: “He has inspired many to be the best they can be.”
The new US President Joe Biden, who was attending Syracuse University at the same time as Little, also expressed his condolences. “I met the man behind the number. He was full of character, decency and integrity, ”he wrote on Twitter. “I’ll miss my boyfriend.”
Little came from a rather poor background, his father had died early. He struggled for a long time at school, but in addition to his success as a footballer, he made it to college with additional preparation and a sports scholarship. After his career as a footballer, he worked, among other things, as a TV commentator.
Little had made his cancer public in May. He spent the last weeks of his life in a hospice. He died on New Year’s Day at the age of 78. He leaves behind his wife and three children.
