Howard Payne University Athletics

James Hargrove of Temple played in every game during his four years as a starter on the Howard Payne football team. He started at linebacker as a freshman and then as tight end and linebacker in his senior year. He was All-Lone Star Conference three times and team captain his junior and senior years. He was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the 14th round – 348th overall – of the 1967 NFL/AFL Draft. He played for the Vikings for four seasons – including the 1970 Super Bowl team. As a rookie recovered a blocked punt in the end zone for a touchdown. He joined the St. Louis Cardinals in 1971, playing two more seasons. He died in Lampasas in 2017.