Drafted in 1957 by the New York Giants, Don Maynard had to make the switch from 2 time All Conference running back to wide receiver. He was released, as he was considered just an average player, after only 1 year. He then played football in the Canadian Football League, but in 1960, the New York Titans were formed.
Maynard was the first player to sign on with them and a legend was created. His first year, he acquired 1,265 yards on 72 catches with an average quarterback running the offense. Maynard continued to put up great numbers year after year and then in 1968 the now named team of the New York Jets won the Superbowl. This is the only Superbowl ever won by the Jets. Maynard was Namath's favorite wide receiver because of his work ethic, size, speed and experience.
He still put up over 1,200 yards per season until his last 3 injury plagued years. However, he still averaged 16 yards per catch. His career ending statistics in 1974 after playing for Houston Texans was 633 catches for 88 touchdowns and 11,834 total yards. Maynard is a 4-time AFL All-Star and ranks 6th for all-time career receiving touchdowns. Maynard was elected into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987 and also a member of the all-time All-AFL Team. Maynard is also one of only 5 players to average over 50 receptions and 1,000 yards in 5 different seasons.
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