Junior Coffey

Junior Lee Coffey (born March 21, 1942 in Kyle, Texas) Junior Coffey (6’ 1" 200) with 10.2* speed, was one of the finest running backs and defensive linebackers in Texas High School football during the 1960s. As a senior in 1960, Coffey, a strong, difficult to tackle and punishing runner, rushed for 1562 yards in 11 games to lead the Dimmitt, Texas Bobcat offense.

Although Coffey enjoyed numerous memorable moments on the field, in a bi-district playoff game against Olton during the 1960 season, he posted particularly impressive numbers in a losing effort. Coffey carried the ball 34 times for 253 yards and scored both Dimmitt touchdowns despite leg cramps as the Bobcats fell 15-12 to Olton.

Coffey became an all-state performer for the Bobcats in football and basketball in the 1960-61 school year. In the 1959-60 season, Coffey became the first black athlete ever to play in a Texas UIL state basketball tournament.

As a junior during the 1959 football season, Coffey led the Dimmitt Bobcat offense with 1294 rushing yards on 165 carries and also led the defense with 185 tackles at linebacker.

Coffey attended the University of Washington. With the Huskies, he was a three time all-conference selection and was tabbed Honorable Mention All-American all three seasons. He finished his career as the second leading ground gainer in school history. Coffey was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the seventh round of the 1965 NFL draft, and he played on the Packers' championship team of '65. He also played with the Atlanta Falcons 1966-69 where he averaged 4.0 yards per carry. He finished his career with the New York Giants in 1971, compiling career totals of 2,037 rushing yards on 500 carries, 487 receiving yards on 64 receptions and 15 touchdowns. After leaving football, Junior Coffey eventually became a Thoroughbred racehorse trainer. His colt, Raise the Bluff, was the favorite going into the 2007 Longacres Mile Handicap at Emerald Downs in Auburn, Washington, but placed second.