Haywood Jeffires, a wide receiver known for his time in the National Football League (NFL), played primarily with the Houston Oilers. Born on December 12, 1964, in Greensboro, North Carolina, Jeffires attended Page High School before moving on to North Carolina State University, where he honed his skills on the college football stage. His performance at NC State caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to his selection in the first round of the 1987 NFL Draft by the Houston Oilers.
Jeffires quickly became an integral part of the Oilers' offensive unit. Standing at 6 feet 2 inches and weighing around 200 pounds, he possessed the physical attributes that made him a reliable target for quarterbacks. His tenure with the Oilers coincided with the team's adoption of the "Run and Shoot" offense, a system that emphasized passing and required receivers to be agile and adaptable. Jeffires thrived in this environment, becoming one of the primary targets for quarterback Warren Moon.
Throughout his career with the Oilers, Jeffires developed a reputation for his precise route-running and ability to make difficult catches in traffic. His breakout season came in 1991 when he recorded 100 receptions for 1,181 yards and seven touchdowns. This performance earned him a spot in the Pro Bowl, marking the first of three consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 1991 to 1993. During these years, Jeffires consistently ranked among the league's top receivers in receptions and receiving yards.
In addition to his Pro Bowl appearances, Jeffires was named a First-team All-Pro in 1991 and a Second-team All-Pro in 1992. His contributions were instrumental in helping the Oilers reach the playoffs multiple times during his tenure. Despite the team's struggles to advance deep into the postseason, Jeffires' performances were often a highlight, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
After spending the majority of his career with the Oilers, Jeffires joined the New Orleans Saints in 1995. His time with the Saints was short-lived, and he concluded his NFL career with the Philadelphia Eagles in 1996. Over his ten-year career, Jeffires amassed 535 receptions, 6,334 receiving yards, and 50 touchdowns.
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