Cougar Great Warren McVea Passed Away, Aged 79
10/20/2025 10:17:00 AM | Football
The family of Warren McVea, trailblazing football star and beloved community figure, and Houston Football announced his peaceful passing on Sunday in Los Angeles, Calif. McVea was 79 years old.
Widely celebrated as one of the greatest athletes of his generation, McVea was a record-breaking All-American running back at the University of Houston and the first Black football player to receive a scholarship at a major Texas university, breaking barriers in the deeply segregated South. Known nationally as "Wondrous Warren," he brought speed, power, and unmatched athletic ability to the game, inspiring generations of players who followed.
The two-time All-American holds the record for the longest pass play in Houston Football history, hauling in a 99-yard pass from Bo Burris against Washington State in 1966. McVea averaged 6.7 yards per rush in his three seasons for the Cougars and posted six 100+ yard rushing games. The San Antonio, Texas, native averaged 8.8 yards per rush in 1966, the third-most by a Cougar in program history.Â
Houston will wear commemorative helmet stickers in honor of McVea's legacy in its Big 12 Conference matchup against Arizona State on Oct. 25. Â
The Swiss Army Knife football star finished his Houston career with 3,009 all-purpose yards, 22nd in Cougar history, before being drafted in the fourth round by the Cincinnati Bengals of the American Football League (AFL). He was then traded to the Kansas City Chiefs and went on to lead the Chiefs to win Super Bowl IV in 1970.Â
Beyond the field, Warren McVea made a lifelong impact as a mentor, youth advocate, and champion of equity in sports. His courage in integrating college football in Texas paved the way for countless athletes of color, and his story remains a defining chapter in sports history. In later years, he was honored by multiple athletic organizations and was inducted into the University of Houston Hall of Honor for his groundbreaking achievements.
"Warren McVea was more than a football icon—he was a pioneer who changed the face of American sports," his family shared. "He lived with resilience, grace, and purpose.
His legacy will continue to inspire not only athletes but anyone who has ever been told their dreams were impossible. We are honored to carry forward his name and his spirit."
McVea is survived by a loving family, including children, grandchildren, and an extended community of friends, former teammates, and admirers nationwide who were touched by his life.
Plans for a public celebration of life will be announced by the family in the coming days.
Widely celebrated as one of the greatest athletes of his generation, McVea was a record-breaking All-American running back at the University of Houston and the first Black football player to receive a scholarship at a major Texas university, breaking barriers in the deeply segregated South. Known nationally as "Wondrous Warren," he brought speed, power, and unmatched athletic ability to the game, inspiring generations of players who followed.
The two-time All-American holds the record for the longest pass play in Houston Football history, hauling in a 99-yard pass from Bo Burris against Washington State in 1966. McVea averaged 6.7 yards per rush in his three seasons for the Cougars and posted six 100+ yard rushing games. The San Antonio, Texas, native averaged 8.8 yards per rush in 1966, the third-most by a Cougar in program history.Â
Houston will wear commemorative helmet stickers in honor of McVea's legacy in its Big 12 Conference matchup against Arizona State on Oct. 25. Â
The Swiss Army Knife football star finished his Houston career with 3,009 all-purpose yards, 22nd in Cougar history, before being drafted in the fourth round by the Cincinnati Bengals of the American Football League (AFL). He was then traded to the Kansas City Chiefs and went on to lead the Chiefs to win Super Bowl IV in 1970.Â
Beyond the field, Warren McVea made a lifelong impact as a mentor, youth advocate, and champion of equity in sports. His courage in integrating college football in Texas paved the way for countless athletes of color, and his story remains a defining chapter in sports history. In later years, he was honored by multiple athletic organizations and was inducted into the University of Houston Hall of Honor for his groundbreaking achievements.
"Warren McVea was more than a football icon—he was a pioneer who changed the face of American sports," his family shared. "He lived with resilience, grace, and purpose.
His legacy will continue to inspire not only athletes but anyone who has ever been told their dreams were impossible. We are honored to carry forward his name and his spirit."
McVea is survived by a loving family, including children, grandchildren, and an extended community of friends, former teammates, and admirers nationwide who were touched by his life.
Plans for a public celebration of life will be announced by the family in the coming days.
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