Bob McKay, a Hall of Fame offensive lineman, has passed away. He was 78.
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The National Football Foundation announced the news and said that McKay had passed away on Sept. 10. The press release did not provide a cause of death or further details about a celebration of life.
McKay is survived by his wife of 50 years, Donna; their two children, Jill (Scott) and Josh (Katie); eight grandchildren; and brothers Don (Kathy) and Mike.
A Texas native, McKay played for the Texas Longhorns during his college career. He played a major role in the team's success while working on the offensive line. This includes becoming a consensus First-Team All-American in 1969.
This season saw the Longhorns going undefeated and then defeating Notre Dame in the 1970 Cotton Bowl to become national champions. The offense led the way while averaging 363 rushing yards per game and 33.8 points per game.
We lost a great Longhorn with the passing of NFF College Football Hall of Fame member, Bob McKay.
Our thoughts & prayers are with his family, friends and teammates. pic.twitter.com/J2Kt82PPHT
— Texas Football (@TexasFootball) September 10, 2026
One year prior to winning the National Championship, the Longhorns went 9-1-1 and became co-champions of the Southwest Conference. The team also won the Cotton Bowl to close out the season.
McKay headed to the NFL in the 1970 Draft. He landed with the Cleveland Browns as the 21st overall pick, and he kicked off a nine-year career.
The Texas native spent six seasons with Cleveland while starting 54 of the 67 games in which he played. He also played in two postseason games for the Browns.
McKay moved to the New England Patriots in 1976. He spent the final three years playing for the Patriots while starting another 17 games and playing in 38. He started one playoff game for the Patriots in 1976.
"Bob McKay was accomplished in everything he did, from his remarkable football career to his professional life, but nothing meant more to him than his family," said NFF President & CEO Steve Hatchell.
"He was a gentle giant and simply one of those people you loved being around. More than a great football player, Bob was a great person and a good friend. We will miss him dearly, and our thoughts and prayers are with Donna and the entire McKay family."
