Many modern Texas Tech football fans may not fully appreciate or even be aware of Dave Parks' career. After all, he played before a huge portion of today's Red Raider fan base was born.
So let's take a history lesson. The College Football Hall of Fame member was ahead of his time as a wide receiver. That's why he is a Texas Tech Ring of Honor member.
In an era when virtually every team threw the ball only when it had to, Parks racked up 80 career catches for 1,090 yards, two of the numerous school receiving records he established during his career. What's more, he owns the school record for the longest interception return, a 98-yard pick-six he registered against Colorado in 1962.
Parks was Tech's first-ever Associated Press First Team All-American. What's more, he is the only player in school history to be selected No. 1 overall in the NFL Draft (1964 by San Francisco).
Parks played 10 years in the NFL earning three Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro nods. In 1965 Parks was the NFL's leader in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns. Long before the passing game took over the sport, Parks was a dangerous weapon on the outside and his career is one that every Red Raider needs to know about.