The Denver Broncos are honoring the life and legacy of former linebacker John Huard, who passed away on January 29 at the age of 80. Huard’s remarkable football journey spanned both college and professional leagues, leaving behind a lasting impact on every team he played for.
Drafted by the Broncos as a fifth-round pick in 1967, Huard played three seasons in Denver, making an immediate impression on the field. He started 41 of the 42 games in which he appeared, showcasing his skill and reliability as a key defensive player. Over his tenure with the Broncos from 1967 to 1969, Huard recorded six interceptions, a testament to his defensive prowess. In addition to his time with the Broncos, Huard spent a season with the New Orleans Saints and also had a stint with the Montreal Alouettes.
Before his NFL career, Huard was a standout at the University of Maine, where he made history as the first player ever inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2014. His incredible achievements on the field also earned him recognition as one of Maine’s top 20 athletes by Sports Illustrated, cementing his place in the state’s sports history.
Following his playing days, Huard transitioned into coaching. He served as an offensive line coach at his alma mater, the University of Maine, in 1974, before taking on the role of head coach at Acadia University from 1979 to 1983. Under his leadership, Acadia won Canadian National Championships in both 1979 and 1981. Huard’s coaching career also saw him serve as the special teams coach for the Chicago Blitz in the USFL and as a coach for the Maine Maritime Academy and the CFL’s Toronto Argonauts.
Huard’s legacy extends beyond the field, as he was the first athlete in Maine’s history to be inducted into the UMaine Sports Hall of Fame. His remarkable achievements both as a player and a coach will not be forgotten, and the Broncos are proud to honor his contributions to the team and the game of football.