In the year that the franchise celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2009, Patriots fans had an opportunity to vote for one of three hall of fame finalists, each of whom were perennial American Football League (AFL) All-Stars for the then Boston Patriots. Fullback Jim Nance posthumously earned the honor of becoming the 14th player and the first running back to be inducted into the team’s Hall of Fame. Nance played seven season with the Patriots from 1965-1971 and was the AFL’s MVP in 1966 when he rushed for 1,458 yards and 11 touchdowns. He also was the first AFL back to eclipse the 1,000-yard rushing mark in consecutive seasons. His 104.1 rushing yards per game in 1966 remains a Patriots record. His 45 rushing TDs is tops in team history while his 5,323 rushing yards is second to Sam Cunningham. Nance was named to the Patriots All-Time Team in 2009. Inducted 2009.
Nance was the 14th player and first running back to be inducted into the Patriots Hall of Fame
Played seven season with the Patriots from 1965-1971
Was the AFL’s MVP in 1966 when he rushed for 1,458 yards and 11 touchdowns
Nance’s 104.1 rushing yards per game in 1966 remains a Patriots record
Number: 35
Position: Fullback
Height: 6-1
Weight: 235
College: Syracuse
Seasons with the Patriots (7): 1965 – 1971
Inducted: 2009