Floyd Little (July 4 1942 – January 1 2021) was an American professional football player who was a running back in the National Football League (NFL) for ten seasons, primarily with the Denver Broncos. He is recognized for his contributions to the sport at both the collegiate and professional levels and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010.
Early life and education
- Birth: July 4 1942, New Haven, Connecticut, U.S.
- Raised: Buffalo, New York.
- Attended Michele Clark High School (now Bishop Timon-St. Jude) in Buffalo, where he excelled in football and track.
College career
- Enrolled at Syracuse University (1962–1966), playing for the Syracuse Orangemen football team.
- As a halfback, he led the team in rushing for three consecutive seasons (1964–1966).
- In 1966, his senior year, Little rushed for 1,186 yards and 13 touchdowns, earning All-American honors.
- finished third in the Heisman Trophy voting (1966).
- Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1983.
Professional career
- Selected in the first round (6th overall) of the 1967 AFL Draft by the Denver Broncos; also drafted by the NFL’s New York Giants but chose the AFL.
- Played for the Broncos from 1967 to 1975, appearing in 135 games and amassing 7,161 rushing yards, 51 rushing touchdowns, and 63 receptions for 837 yards.
- Known as “the Franchise” for his role in helping to stabilize the Broncos’ franchise both on the field and financially during the late 1960s.
- Earned five Pro Bowl selections (1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972) and was named All-AFL (1968, 1969) and All-NFC (1972) after the AFL–NFL merger.
- In 1976, Little signed with the Miami Dolphins, appearing in nine games before retiring after the season.
Post‑playing career
- Served as a scout and assistant coach for the Denver Broncos (1979–1982).
- Worked in the Broncos’ front office, including roles in public relations and community outreach.
- Actively involved in charitable initiatives, notably youth sports programs in Denver.
Honors and legacy
- Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (2010).
- Inducted into the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame (2008).
- The Broncos retired his jersey number 24 in 2010.
- Recognized for his pioneering status as one of the first African‑American star running backs in the modern era of professional football.
Personal life
- Married to Vernette Little; the couple had four children.
- Resided in Denver, Colorado, after his playing career.
Death
- Floyd Little died on January 1 2021 in Denver, Colorado, at the age of 78, following a brief illness.
This entry summarizes verified biographical and career information about Floyd Little as documented by multiple reputable sports and historical sources.
