Passing of Steve Kiner, Renowned Tennessee Football Player and College Hall of Famer
Legendary linebacker and College Football Hall of Famer Steve Kiner passed away at the age of 77 on Thursday.
The National Football Foundation and the University of Tennessee announced his death, but did not disclose the cause.
In a news release, NFF chairman Archie Manning expressed his sadness over Kiner's passing, calling him a true legend of the game. He praised Kiner's toughness, leadership, and excellence, and acknowledged the impact he had on the Volunteer community. Manning extended his condolences to Kiner's family and friends.
Kiner was a junior All-American in 1968 and a unanimous All-American in 1969, earning the title of SEC Defensive Player of the Year. He also received five interceptions that season and placed ninth in the Heisman Trophy voting.
After being drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 1970, Kiner played eight seasons in the NFL, recording 19 sacks and 10 interceptions in 114 games (99 starts) with the Cowboys, New England Patriots, and Houston Oilers.
In 1999, Kiner was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, and in 2016, he was honored in the Tennessee Athletics Hall of Fame.
