Mourning the loss of Longhorn legend Kenneth Sims—his legacy endures. Prayers and heartfelt condolences to his family and teammates.

It is a profoundly somber day for the University of Texas community, college football fans, and the broader sports world, as we mourn the passing of Longhorn legend and College Football Hall of Famer Kenneth Sims. A towering figure both on and off the field, Sims leaves behind a legacy etched in strength, resilience, humility, and unwavering dedication. His death marks the loss of one of the greatest players in Texas football history and a man whose impact stretched far beyond the gridiron.

A Humble Beginning

Kenneth Wayne Sims was born on October 31, 1959, in Kosse, Texas—a small town with fewer than 500 residents. In this modest setting, where football is not just a sport but a cultural identity, Sims’ physical gifts and relentless work ethic quickly separated him from his peers. He played his high school ball at Groesbeck High School, where he earned recognition as a dominant defensive lineman. But it wasn’t just his size and power that caught the attention of college scouts—it was his tenacity, discipline, and rare combination of speed and strength.

Recruited by some of the top college programs in the country, Sims ultimately chose to attend the University of Texas at Austin, a decision that would not only shape his life but also redefine the Longhorns’ football program for years to come.

A Force at the University of Texas

From the moment Kenneth Sims stepped onto the field for the Texas Longhorns, it was clear he was a generational talent. At 6-foot-5 and well over 250 pounds, he possessed the physical tools to dominate, but what made him truly special was his motor. He didn’t just play with power; he played with heart, intelligence, and an insatiable will to win.

Sims anchored the defensive line for Texas from 1978 to 1981. During his collegiate career, he amassed 34 tackles for loss and 22 sacks, making life miserable for opposing quarterbacks and running backs. He was a nightmare matchup for any offensive lineman and frequently demanded double- and triple-teams, which freed up his teammates to make plays.

His breakout year came in 1981, when he was virtually unstoppable. That season, he won the prestigious Lombardi Award, presented annually to the best college football lineman or linebacker. He was also named a consensus All-American, cementing his place among the elite defenders in college football history.

But Sims wasn’t just about statistics or awards. He embodied what it meant to be a Longhorn. He carried himself with quiet confidence, respected the game, and treated his teammates with the same humility he brought to his hometown roots. Coaches and teammates alike spoke of his leadership, his unselfishness, and his ability to raise the level of everyone around him.

First Overall in the 1982 NFL Draft

Kenneth Sims’ excellence at Texas led to him being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 1982 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots—making him the first Texas Longhorn ever to be taken first overall. It was a monumental achievement for the program and a moment of immense pride for the university, his family, and his hometown of Kosse.

In the NFL, Sims battled through injuries that hampered his ability to fully realize the dominance he displayed in college. Yet, he remained a consistent contributor to the Patriots’ defensive front and was part of the team that reached Super Bowl XX. He played all eight of his NFL seasons with New England and earned the respect of teammates and coaches for his professionalism and toughness.

Though his professional career didn’t reach the same legendary heights as his college years, Kenneth Sims never let injuries or disappointment define him. He transitioned into retirement with grace, focusing his efforts on mentoring young athletes and remaining a steadfast supporter of the Longhorn community.

A Hall of Fame Career

In 2021, Kenneth Sims received one of the highest honors in the sport: induction into the College Football Hall of Fame. It was a long overdue recognition for a player whose impact was immeasurable. The Hall of Fame nod wasn’t just about numbers; it was about the way Sims played the game, the standard he set, and the mark he left on the University of Texas.

When he was inducted, Sims spoke not of his own greatness, but of the coaches who believed in him, the teammates who inspired him, and the pride he felt wearing the burnt orange. It was vintage Kenneth Sims—humble, grateful, and focused on the people who helped him succeed.

Impact Beyond the Field

Off the field, Sims was known for his kind demeanor, his wisdom, and his willingness to give back. Whether it was speaking to young athletes, mentoring linemen at UT practices, or supporting local causes in Texas, Sims never stopped being a part of the community.

He remained deeply connected to the University of Texas, often returning to campus for alumni events and team functions. For younger generations of Longhorns, seeing Sims walk the sidelines or speak to the team was a reminder of the program’s legacy and the high bar that had been set.

Sims also used his platform to raise awareness around player wellness, injury recovery, and the challenges that many athletes face after their playing days end. He was open about his own struggles with injury and rehabilitation, offering hope and support to those going through similar trials.

Mourning a Giant, Remembering a Gentleman

The news of Kenneth Sims’ passing has reverberated across the college football world. Tributes from former teammates, coaches, fans, and analysts continue to pour in, each echoing the same sentiments: he was a giant of a player and an even better man.

Steve Sarkisian, the current head coach of the Longhorns, released a heartfelt statement:

“Kenneth Sims was a foundational figure in the history of Texas football. His excellence on the field was matched only by his grace off of it. Today, we not only mourn the loss of a Longhorn legend—we honor a man who represented everything good about this program.”

Former teammates remember Sims not only for his dominance but for his loyalty and leadership.

“Ken was the kind of guy who made you feel like you mattered,” said a former teammate. “He didn’t care if you were a walk-on or an All-American—he treated everyone with the same respect.”

Fans, too, recall the awe they felt watching Sims wreak havoc on opposing offenses. For those who were lucky enough to see him play in person at Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium, the memories are indelible—his explosion off the line, his relentless pursuit, and the quiet confidence he brought to every game.

Legacy and Lessons

Kenneth Sims’ legacy is not just found in highlight reels or stat sheets. It is found in the lives he touched, the teammates he lifted, and the fans he inspired. He exemplified the values that make sports meaningful: teamwork, perseverance, humility, and heart.

For the current generation of Longhorns—and those still to come—Sims’ story will remain a blueprint for greatness. Not simply because he was a top draft pick or Hall of Famer, but because of how he carried himself. He never let fame define him, never lost his connection to his roots, and never stopped giving back.

His life reminds us that football is more than a game. It’s a community, a brotherhood, and a platform for positive impact. Sims understood that better than most, and he used every stage of his life to uplift others.

Final Thoughts

As we say goodbye to Kenneth Sims, we do so with heavy hearts—but also with immense gratitude. Gratitude for the unforgettable moments he gave us on the field, for the example he set off of it, and for the enduring legacy he leaves behind.

To his family, friends, and former teammates, our thoughts and prayers are with you. We mourn with you, we honor his memory with you, and we celebrate a life that truly mattered.

Rest in peace, Kenneth Sims—Longhorn legend, Hall of Famer, and forever one of the greatest to wear the burnt orange.