Sauer attended the University of Texas, where he played college football for the Texas Longhorns. His performance on the field caught the attention of professional scouts, leading to his selection in the 1965 AFL Draft by the New York Jets. Sauer's entry into the professional league marked the beginning of a career that would see him become a reliable target for quarterback Joe Namath.
During his time with the Jets, Sauer quickly established himself as a dependable receiver. His precise route running and sure hands made him a favorite target in the Jets' passing game. In 1967, Sauer's talents were recognized with an AFL All-Star selection, highlighting his growing reputation in the league.
The pinnacle of Sauer's career came in the 1968 season when the Jets achieved a historic victory in Super Bowl III. In a game that saw the Jets face the heavily favored Baltimore Colts, Sauer played a crucial role in the team's success. He caught eight passes for 133 yards, helping the Jets secure a 16-7 victory. This win was significant not only for the Jets but also for the AFL, as it demonstrated the league's competitiveness against the established NFL teams.
Sauer continued to perform at a high level in the following seasons, consistently ranking among the team's leading receivers. His ability to make critical catches in important moments made him a valuable asset to the Jets' offense. However, despite his on-field success, Sauer was known for his independent thinking and willingness to speak out on issues he felt strongly about, including his views on the business side of professional football.
In 1971, at the age of 27, Sauer made the surprising decision to retire from professional football. His departure from the game was unexpected, as he was still in his prime and performing well. Sauer cited his disillusionment with the sport's commercialization and the treatment of players as factors in his decision to step away.
After leaving football, Sauer pursued various interests, including writing and coaching. He remained connected to the sport through these endeavors, but he never returned to play professionally. Sauer's post-football life was marked by his intellectual pursuits and his desire to explore life beyond the gridiron.
George Sauer Jr.'s career, though relatively brief, left a lasting impression on those who watched him play.
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