Former New Orleans Saints Running Back Wayne Wilson Passes Away At 66

A look back at the career of former Saints RB Wayne Wilson, who sadly passed away last weekend.

Former New Orleans Saints running back Wayne Wilson passed away at the age of 66 on March 10.

Born in Montgomery County, Maryland, Wilson was a graduate of Howard (Md.) High School. He attended Shepherd College in West Virginia and would eventually be drafted by the Houston Oilers in the 12th round of the 1979 NFL Draft. Wilson is the only NFL player to ever be drafted out of Shepherd College, now Shepherd University. 

Released in training camp, Wilson would be picked up by the New Orleans Saints in 1979. He'd go on to fill several roles for the franchise over the next eight years. Wilson's versatility allowed him to return kickoffs, be a lead blocker as a fullback, step into a pass catching role on third downs, and even assume primarily duties as a runner.

In his eight seasons with New Orleans, Wilson had 2,462 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns. He also caught 179 passes for 1,517 yards and 14 scores. The most productive year of his career was 1983, when he rushed for 787 yards and a team-high nine touchdowns. His 11 total scores also led the Saints that season. 

Wilson had five career 100-yard rushing games, three during the 1983 season. He had a career-best 38 receptions in 1985, one of four years with over 30 receptions. In 1981, he had a career-high 384 receiving yards and four scores through the air. 

Dec 12, 1982; Atlanta, GA, USA; FILE PHOTO; New Orleans Saints running back Wayne Wilson (30) in action against the Atlanta Falcons at Fulton County Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports

Wilson was traded to the Minnesota Vikings in 1986 before finishing his NFL career with the Washington Redskins in 1987. He was a member of a Redskins team that won Super Bowl XXII over the Denver Broncos. 

At the time of his retirement, Wilson ranked fourth in franchise history in rushing yardage and rushing touchdowns. He also ranked second in receptions and receiving yards by a running back and first in receiving touchdowns. 

The Saints News Network thanks Wayne Wilson for his contributions to the New Orleans Saints and sends our deepest condolences out to his family.