Howard Twilley, a distinguished wide receiver for the Miami Dolphins and a key member of their undefeated 1972 Super Bowl-winning team, passed away on February 5, 2025, at the age of 81. His death marks the loss of a significant figure in both collegiate and professional football.
Early Life and College Career
Born on December 25, 1943, in Houston, Texas, Twilley attended Galena Park High School before committing to the University of Tulsa. During his tenure at Tulsa, he set remarkable records, including 134 receptions and 1,779 receiving yards in a single season in 1965—marks that stood for over two decades. His exceptional performance earned him unanimous All-American honors and a second-place finish in the 1965 Heisman Trophy race. Over his collegiate career, Twilley amassed 261 receptions for 3,343 yards and 32 touchdowns, solidifying his legacy as one of college football’s greats. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1992.
Professional Career with the Miami Dolphins
In 1966, Twilley was selected by both the Minnesota Vikings in the NFL Draft and the Miami Dolphins in the AFL Draft. Opting to join the Dolphins, he became a foundational player for the franchise. Throughout his 11-season career with Miami, Twilley recorded 212 receptions, 3,064 receiving yards, and 23 touchdowns. He played a pivotal role in the Dolphins’ historic 1972 season, catching a 28-yard touchdown pass in Super Bowl VII, which secured the team’s perfect 17-0 record. The following year, he contributed to the Dolphins’ victory in Super Bowl VIII, further cementing his legacy in the NFL.
Post-Football Life
After retiring from professional football in 1976, Twilley transitioned into business, owning a chain of sporting goods stores across Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Texas. He also worked in investment management, applying the discipline and strategic thinking honed during his athletic career. His contributions to the sport were further honored with inductions into the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame in 1995 and the Tulsa Athletic Hall of Fame in 1984.
Legacy
Howard Twilley’s passing is a profound loss to the football community. His exceptional skills on the field, combined with his post-retirement achievements, have left an indelible mark on the sport. He is survived by his wife, Julie, and their three children. The Miami Dolphins organization expressed deep sorrow at his passing, highlighting his significant contributions to the team’s success and the sport as a whole.
Twilley’s enduring legacy serves as an inspiration to athletes and fans alike, exemplifying excellence both on and off the field.
