Raymond Crosland Renfro (July 30, 1931 – April 22, 2020) was an American football player who played as a flanker and defensive back in the National Football League (NFL). He spent his entire professional career with the Dallas Cowboys (1960–1965) and was a two‑time Pro Bowl selection.
Early life and education
Ray Renfro was born in Dallas, Texas. He attended Woodrow Wilson High School, where he excelled in football and track. After graduating in 1949, Renfro enrolled at the University of Texas at Austin and played college football for the Texas Longhorns. He earned varsity letters as a halfback and was recognized for his speed and versatility on both offense and special teams.
College career
At Texas, Renfro contributed as a runner, receiver, and return specialist. He was part of the 1950 Longhorn squad that won the Southwest Conference championship. Statistical records from the era are limited, but contemporaneous reports note his ability to break long runs and make key receptions.
Professional career
Dallas Cowboys (1960–1965)
Renfro signed with the Dallas Cowboys for the franchise’s inaugural season in 1960. Initially used as a defensive back, he transitioned to the flanker (wide receiver) position, where his speed made him a deep‑threat option.
- 1960 season: Appeared in all 12 games, recording 13 receptions for 218 yards.
- 1961 season: Increased production with 31 receptions for 604 yards and 4 touchdowns, earning his first Pro Bowl selection.
- 1962 season: Continued as a primary receiver, posting 31 catches for 556 yards and 3 touchdowns; selected to a second Pro Bowl.
- 1963–1965 seasons: Served in a complementary role, also contributing as a kickoff and punt returner. Over his six‑year career, Renfro accumulated 210 receptions for 3,386 yards and 23 touchdowns. He also logged 2,984 return yards, including a 92‑yard kickoff return for a touchdown in 1962.
Renfro retired after the 1965 season, having helped establish the Cowboys’ early offensive identity.
Later life and death
Following retirement, Renfro remained involved in the Dallas community, working in the oil and gas industry and participating in charitable activities. He was inducted into the Texas High School Football Hall of Fame in 1996. Ray Renfro died on April 22, 2020, in Dallas at the age of 88.
Legacy
Renfro is remembered as one of the Dallas Cowboys’ first offensive standouts and a pioneering deep‑threat flanker. His contributions in the early 1960s helped lay the groundwork for the franchise’s later success. He is also noted for his versatility, having played both offense and defense and contributed significantly on special teams.
