Randy McMillan, Former Colts Running Back, Dies at 67
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — Randy McMillan, a cherished figure in Colts history and a dynamic running back who starred for both the Baltimore and Indianapolis Colts, died at the age of 67. McMillan’s legacy is marked by a remarkable NFL debut and solid contributions throughout his career, which spanned from 1981 to 1986.
Selected in the first round of the 1981 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Colts, McMillan quickly made an impact. In his very first professional game against the New England Patriots, he rushed for an impressive 146 yards and scored two touchdowns, leading Baltimore to a narrow 29-28 victory. This performance earned him the NFL Offensive Player of the Week honor, a rare feat for a rookie. Only Pro Football Hall of Famer Marshall Faulk has surpassed McMillan’s debut touchdown record for the franchise, scoring three rushing touchdowns in his first game with the Colts.
Despite the explosive start, McMillan did not eclipse the 100-yard rushing mark again during his rookie season, finishing with 597 rushing yards and an additional 466 receiving yards. He remained a key player for the Colts during a pivotal time in the franchise’s history, including their relocation from Baltimore to Indianapolis in 1984. Over his career, McMillan amassed a total of 3,876 rushing yards.
McMillan’s football journey began at Harford Community College in Maryland before he transferred to the University of Pittsburgh. At Pittsburgh, he played alongside future NFL legend quarterback Dan Marino and distinguished himself as the nation’s leading scorer and top rusher in 1978. His collegiate achievements earned him a place in the Harford Sports Hall of Fame.
Tragically, McMillan’s career was cut short when he retired at age 28 after sustaining a serious leg injury from a car accident. His impact on the field, however, remains a proud chapter in Colts history.
The Indianapolis Colts organization and fans alike mourn the loss of McMillan, whose contributions helped shape the franchise’s identity during a transformative era. For more on the Colts’ history and NFL records, visit the NFL’s official player archives and the Indianapolis Colts official site.
McMillan’s life and career are also remembered through the lens of collegiate sports excellence, with the University of Pittsburgh Athletics honoring his legacy. For broader NFL historical context, the Pro Football Hall of Fame provides extensive records and biographies of players who have made significant impacts on the game.
As the Colts community reflects on Randy McMillan’s contributions, his story remains a testament to perseverance and talent, inspiring future generations of players and fans alike.
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