Howard Twilley, a legendary wide receiver and member of the Miami Dolphins’ undefeated 1972 Super Bowl championship team, has passed away at the age of 81. The cause of death has not been disclosed. Twilley’s passing marks the end of an era for both the Miami Dolphins and college football, as he was a standout player whose contributions to the game will never be forgotten.
Twilley was a giant in college football, earning widespread recognition during his time at the University of Tulsa. His career at Tulsa was nothing short of spectacular, as he set multiple NCAA records, including marks for receptions (134) and receiving yards (1,779) in a single season. His brilliance on the field earned him a spot as a finalist in the 1965 Heisman Trophy race, where he finished second behind USC’s Mike Garrett.
In 1992, Twilley was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, becoming only the second Golden Hurricane player to receive such an honor. His impressive collegiate career laid the foundation for his future success in the NFL, where he would make an indelible impact on the league.
In 1966, Twilley was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the 12th round of the AFL Draft, making history as the first wide receiver selected by the expansion team. While the Dolphins initially struggled, posting losing records in their first four seasons, the arrival of legendary head coach Don Shula in 1970 changed the trajectory of the franchise. In his first season, Shula led the Dolphins to a 10-4 record and a playoff berth. The following year, the Dolphins captured the AFC Championship.
Twilley’s most memorable moments, however, came during the Dolphins’ historic 1972 season. The team went undefeated throughout the regular season, a feat that remains unmatched in NFL history. In Super Bowl VII, with Miami facing off against Washington, Twilley caught a 28-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Bob Griese, giving the Dolphins their first points of the game and helping to seal a 14-7 victory. That victory capped off a perfect 17-0 season, cementing the Dolphins as one of the greatest teams of all time.
Twilley’s contributions did not end with the 1972 Super Bowl victory. The following year, the Dolphins went on to repeat as champions, defeating the Minnesota Vikings 24-7 in Super Bowl VIII.
Over his 11-season career in the AFL and NFL, Twilley totaled over 3,000 receiving yards and 23 touchdowns, earning respect as one of the premier wide receivers of his era. Despite his success on the field, he was known as a humble and grounded individual, often reflecting on the honor of playing in the Super Bowl. In a 2017 interview, he shared, “I wouldn’t trade the experience of catching a pass in the Super Bowl for 10 million dollars or 20 million dollars.”
After retiring from football in 1976, Twilley transitioned to a successful post-playing career in the footwear business and wealth management. His legacy, however, will forever be tied to his remarkable football career.
Twilley is survived by his wife, Julie, whom he married in 1968, and their three children. The entire football community mourns his passing, and his name will remain synonymous with excellence on the gridiron.
