Bob Hayes is being highlighted as part of a countdown to the start of the 2025 National Football League season. As the Dallas Cowboys prepare to face the Philadelphia Eagles in their opener, each day recognizes a notable figure from Cowboys history.
Hayes, who played wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys from 1965 to 1974, is known for his Olympic-level speed and impact on professional football. Born in Jacksonville, Florida, on December 20, 1942, he was nicknamed “Bullet Bob.” Hayes won a gold medal in the 100 meters at the 1964 Olympics before moving to the NFL. His ability required opposing teams to alter their defensive strategies by using zone coverage and deep safety help, which influenced how modern football is played.
During his career with the Cowboys, Hayes earned All-Pro honors three times and was selected for the Pro Bowl three times as well. He led the league in receiving touchdowns in both 1965 and 1966. Hayes contributed to Dallas’s win in Super Bowl VI.
He was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2009. Hayes remains the only person to have both an Olympic gold medal and a Super Bowl ring.
A lesser-known fact about him is that he once tied the world record for the 100-yard dash while running on a cinder track.
Hayes is recognized primarily for being “the fastest man in football” and for changing how defenses played against fast receivers.
