It is another dark day for the NFL world. Former NFL running back, Fred Willis, left for his heavenly abode at the age of 75. According to an obituary by his family, Willis left behind his wife, five children, two step-children, and nine grandchildren. Fred Willis was born on December 9, 1947. And from a young age, he displayed an innate talent for playing football.

When Fred Willis entered college, he was one of the few two-sport athletes, playing both football and hockey. As NFL fans mourn the loss of the RB, let us take a look at his glorious career throughout the decades, and how he helped other retired players after hanging up his cleats.

The Life of Fred Willis

Since his high-school days, Fred Willis was a notable football player who possessed the talents to be a great athlete. He attended Marian High School in Framingham and Kimball Union Academy in Plainfield, where he broke the all-time New England scoring record in 1966. He went on to become an All-American High School and Prep School player. Before joining the Boston College.

In college, Fred Willis became Boston’s first 1,000-yard rusher and became the football program’s first 2,000-yard rusher in the program’s history. His college performance led to the Cincinnati Bengals signing him as a fourth-round pick in the 1971 Draft. He went on to spend six seasons in the NFL and was traded to the Houston Oilers (Now the Tennessee Titans) in 1972. He had his best career season in 1973, starting all 14 games for the team. Willis also ran for 579 yards and caught 57 passes for 371 yards, the third-highest in NFL that season.

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Willis announced his retirement in 1977, after which he became an active member in helping retired NFL players who suffer from brain injuries. He became the Founder and Executive director of NFL Players Brains Matter, as well as the Founder, President, and CEO of HPN Neurologic. Fred Willis’ relentless efforts led to the issue of CTE/TBI being discussed at a national level, which is now slowly changing the way how sports are played and how players return after concussions. Because of his immense contributions, his death has left a void in the hearts of NFL fans.

Fans mourn the loss of Willis on social media 

NFL fans took to social media to share their condolences and support on the demise of the 75-year-old RB.

One fan talked about how Willis was a complete player, “So sorry to hear of his passing. Fred could do it all: run, receive, block. A great team player.”

Another fan shared a photo of Willis’ time in the NFL, commenting, “RIP Fred Willis🙏🕊️”

This fan shared his own personal story with the RB, “RIP FRED WILLIS.. I remember back when I was an 11-year-old kid in the early seventies and he gave me a weight set before he left Boston College, still have it. Great player but an even better Man.

Another fan recalled how Fred Willis helped the Oilers during their NFL slump, “Rest in Peace, Fred Willis. In 1973, when the 1-13 Houston Oilers were at their worst, you were their star, leading the AFC in receiving with 57 catches.”

This fan commented, “Saddened by the news that former #Bengals running back Fred Willis has passed away at 75. He was my favorite player when I first became a football fan.”

We extend our deepest condolence to Willis’ family as they deal with the heartbreaking loss of their loved one. 

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