Arkansas football lost one of its all-time greats this week.
Jim Lindsey, a cornerstone of the program’s golden era, died at 81. The university shared the news on Monday.
Lindsey grew up in east Arkansas and played his high school ball in Forrest City. He went on to become one of the most decorated players in Razorbacks history.
The school released a short statement honoring his life. The release read, “We are saddened by the loss of Arkansas legend Jim Lindsey.
“He made Arkansas a better place in many ways. His friends and family are in our thoughts.”
Current coach Ryan Silverfield also spoke about Lindsey’s passing. Silverfield is set to begin his first season leading the Hogs this fall.
“Jim Lindsey was an incredible man,” Silverfield said. “His name is one of the first names mentioned as a cornerstone of Arkansas football. The influence he had as a player and later in life with his support in several ways is undeniable.
“His legacy lives on through his incredible family. We will keep them in our thoughts as they handle the loss of an Arkansas legend.”
A national title and a perfect season
Lindsey’s playing days at Arkansas came during one of the greatest stretches in school history. He helped the Razorbacks capture the program’s only football national championship back in 1964.
That season, he earned All-Conference honors while playing for legendary coach Frank Broyles.
The success didn’t stop there. Lindsey and the Hogs followed that title with a perfect 10-0 regular season in 1965. He was named All-Southwest Conference that year too.
After his college career ended, Lindsey kept playing football at the highest level. He joined the Minnesota Vikings and suited up for the team from 1966 through 1972.
While with Minnesota, Lindsey was part of the 1969 NFL Championship squad. That team fell to the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl IV.
Life beyond football
Lindsey’s impact on Arkansas didn’t end when his playing career wrapped up. He served as a member of the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees for years.
He also built a successful career in real estate and the apartment industry.
His achievements on and off the field earned him lasting recognition. Lindsey was inducted into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame back in 1987.
He later joined the Arkansas Business Hall of Fame as well, earning enshrinement in 2010.
Razorbacks fans and former teammates are remembering a man who shaped the program during one of its finest hours.
His name will stay tied to Arkansas football history for good.
Key takeaways
- Jim Lindsey, an Arkansas football icon, died at 81, the university announced Monday
- He helped the Razorbacks win the program’s only national title in 1964 under Frank Broyles
- He played for the Minnesota Vikings from 1966-1972 and reached Super Bowl IV
