Mel Renfro

Dallas Cowboy Mel Renfro

Before the Dallas Cowboys

Born on December 30, 1941, Melvin Lacy Renfro, also known as Mel Renfro, attended high school in Portland Oregon. He was born in Houston, Texas, but, later moved to Portland where he attended college at the University of Oregon.

Throughout his college career he excelled in football and in track. In football he played on both sides of the ball, as a defensive back and a halfback. During his time with the Ducks, he scored a total of 141 points and rushed for 1,532 total yards.

One of the most impressive games during his college career happened when the Ducks played Rice University. Renfro played one of his best games on offense and on defense. The game was attended by a predominately white crowd, which gave Renfro a loud standing ovation when he left the stadium. In 1962, this was a big deal, especially for Rice University.

Renfro’s track record was equally as impressive during his college career. In 1962, he was part of a world record setting relay team for the 440 yard relay. He and his teammates completed the relay in 40 seconds flat. Due to this record, he became part of the Pigskin Club of Washington, D.C.

Dallas Cowboys Career

In 1964, the Dallas Cowboys drafted Renfro during the second round. When he first arrived with the Cowboys, he was put into the safety position, but during his fifth season, he became a cornerback.

During his 14 years with the Dallas Cowboys, he became one of the best cornerbacks to ever play for the team and in the National Football League. The league recognized his greatness and selected him for the Pro Bowl 10 times throughout his career.

In 1969, Renfro had 10 interceptions, which led the NFL. Throughout his tenure in the league, he had a total of 52 pass interceptions, which he returned for 626 yards. He was also considered a threat on special teams, where he had duties on kickoff and punt returns. He played in four Super Bowls and announced his retirement after his last one.

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Where is He Now

Mel continues to live in Texas. He is often found giving motivational speeches and is available for celebrity appearances. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1996 and into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1986. He was also added into the Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor in 1981.

Fun Facts

• Pick number 17 in the overall draft
• Pro Bowl MVP in 1970
• Returned 109 punts
• 13 fumble recoveries
• All Pro four times
• 1962 Consensus All American
• 26.4 Yard punt return average

Mel Renfro was a part of the Dallas Cowboys from the moment he joined the NFL until the day he retired. Through his hard work and love of the game, he became one of the best players that ever played for the Cowboys and in the league. He continues to show his love of the game, through his speaking engagements. Renfro was a respected player on and off the field.