Kenneth Sims, Former Patriots No. 1 Overall Pick, Dies at 65

Kenneth Sims, the former New England Patriots No. 1 overall pick, passed away on Friday at the age of 65. Sims had been battling illness and reportedly died peacefully in his sleep, according to 247sports.

Drafted first overall in the 1982 NFL Draft, Sims spent his entire eight-year career with the Patriots. Over 74 career games, he recorded 17 sacks—a respectable number, though injuries often kept him from fully showcasing his potential.

Sims faced significant hurdles throughout his professional career. The only season he managed to play all games was in 1984. In 1987, he underwent back surgery, limiting him to 12 games. The following year, he ruptured his Achilles tendon, appearing in just one game. By 1989, a knee injury sidelined him during the last game of the season, ultimately leading to his retirement.

Despite his injury struggles, Sims left an undeniable mark during his collegiate career with the Texas Longhorns. He was the third Longhorn ever to be selected as the top NFL Draft pick. After playing behind legends like Steve McMichael and Bill Acker during his sophomore year, Sims exploded onto the scene his junior year, racking up 131 tackles and earning All-American honors.

In his senior year, Sims broke records and barriers. He became the first Texas Longhorn to win the prestigious Lombardi Award, given annually to the college lineman who best embodies the discipline, character, and excellence of legendary coach Vince Lombardi. Sims also led Texas to a stellar 10-1-1 record and a Cotton Bowl victory in 1982 while finishing as the top defensive vote-getter for the Heisman Trophy.

Across his college career, Sims showcased his dominance with 322 tackles, 29 sacks, 50 tackles for loss, 15 forced fumbles, seven fumble recoveries, and three blocked kicks. Those numbers are borderline superhero-level, proving Sims' legacy will live on far beyond his NFL injuries.