Austin Native Jim Hudson, Former NFL Defensive Back, Dies at 78

Hudson played a key role in the New York Jets' historic Super Bowl III upset victory over the Baltimore Colts.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Jim Hudson, a former defensive back who starred at Austin High School and the University of Texas before going on to win a Super Bowl with the New York Jets, has died at the age of 78. Hudson was known for his physical, hard-hitting style of play that embodied the toughness of Texas football.

Why it matters

Hudson's career traced a path from the high school fields of Austin to the highest levels of the NFL, serving as a symbol of the talent and competitive spirit that has long defined Texas football. His Super Bowl victory with the Jets helped validate the AFL and cement his legacy as one of the most respected defensive backs of his era.

The details

At Austin High, Hudson played with a physical edge that reflected the toughness of his hometown. He carried that mentality to the University of Texas, where he became a steady, disciplined presence in the Longhorns' secondary. Hudson's intelligence, leverage, and controlled aggression translated seamlessly to the professional level, where he developed a reputation as one of the hardest-hitting defensive backs in the NFL.

  • Hudson starred at Austin High School in the 1960s.
  • He played college football at the University of Texas from 1964 to 1967.
  • Hudson was drafted by the New York Jets in 1968 and played for the team through the 1975 season.
  • He was a key member of the Jets' defense that upset the Baltimore Colts in Super Bowl III in 1969.

The players

Jim Hudson

A former defensive back who starred at Austin High School and the University of Texas before winning a Super Bowl with the New York Jets.

Austin High School

The high school in Austin, Texas where Hudson played football and developed his reputation as a tough, physical player.

University of Texas

The college where Hudson played defensive back, becoming a steady and disciplined presence in the Longhorns' secondary.

New York Jets

The NFL team that Hudson played for from 1968 to 1975, including being a key member of their Super Bowl III championship team.

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What they’re saying

“Jim Hudson embodied the toughness and competitive spirit that has long defined Texas football. His career traced a path from the high school fields of Austin to the highest levels of the NFL, and his Super Bowl victory with the Jets helped validate the AFL and cement his legacy as one of the most respected defensive backs of his era.”

— Robert Jenkins, Sports Historian (texashsfootball.com)

What’s next

Hudson's family is planning a memorial service in Austin to celebrate his life and legacy.

The takeaway

Jim Hudson's career serves as a testament to the enduring power of Texas high school football to produce tough, disciplined players who can succeed at the highest levels of the sport. His story is a source of pride for the Austin community and a model for future generations of defensive backs seeking to follow in his footsteps.