Kenneth Sims, the New England Patriots first overall pick in the 1982 NFL Draft, passed away on March 21 according to Chip Brown of 24/7Sports.com. From his early years in Texas to his celebrated career at the University of Texas and his tenure in the NFL, Sims left his mark on football and in New England as an important member of the Patriots first AFC Championship team.

Sims attended Groesbeck High School in Texas, where he showcased his athletic versatility early on, playing multiple positions, including linebacker, fullback, and tight end. His play earned him a scholarship to the University of Texas, where he transitioned to the defensive tackle position.

Sims exploded as a junior, recording 131 tackles and earning All-Conference and All-American honors. His senior year solidified his place among college football's greats as he became the first Longhorn to win the prestigious Lombardi Award, presented to the college football lineman of the year. He was also named the 1981 UPI Lineman of the Year and was the highest defensive vote recipient for the Heisman Trophy.

Sims played a crucial role in leading the Longhorns to a 10–1–1 record and a victory in the 1982 Cotton Bowl Classic, ending the season with a No. 2 national ranking.

The Patriots selected Sims as the first overall pick in the 1982 NFL Draft, making him only the third Longhorn to receive such an honor. He finished fourth in AFC Defensive Rookie of the Year voting that season, which included a trip to the playoffs for the Pats.

Over Sims' eight-season career with the Patriots, he played 74 games and recorded 17 sacks. His best season came in 1985 when he registered 5.5 sacks in 13 games, helping the Patriots reach Super Bowl XX. Unfortunately, a broken leg late in the season prevented Sims from playing in the championship game.

Sims' career was impacted by injuries which limited him to only one complete season in 1984. In 1987, he underwent back surgery, and in 1988, a ruptured Achilles tendon forced him to miss the entire season. Despite these setbacks, Sims returned in 1989, playing most of the season before a knee injury sidelined him for the final game.

That would be his final season in the NFL, completing an eight-year career, all spent with the Patriots, which included a conference championship.

DISCLAIMER: The views and thoughts expressed in this article are those of the writer and don't necessarily reflect those of the organization. Read Full Disclaimer