Daryl Hunt (#85), a legendary linebacker passed away on Friday
It’s a somber day for the Oklahoma Sooners as legendary linebacker Daryl “Moose” Hunt passed away on Friday of an apparent heart attack. He was a hard hitting linebacker who showed his greatness early on which helped him cross the racial barrier in west Texas. Upon enrolling in high school, he was the first African-American to play for Permian High School in Odessa, Texas (the school featured in Friday Night Lights). At Permian, Moose played tight end and helped lead the team to capture the 1972 Texas State Championship trophy.
After a strong Permian career, Hunt made his way north to Oklahoma where he moved to linebacker and started for Barry Switzer’s 1975 national championship team. The three-time All-Big Eight linebacker had a strong collegiate career which caught the eyes of pro scouts. Hunt made his way to the NFL and played six years for the Houston Oilers (drafted in the 6th round).
Hunt’s legendary status is still etched in stone in Oklahoma as he currently holds the school record for career tackles at 530.
