Former Texas Longhorns Running Back Remembered in Houston After Passing at 79

Houston sports followers are reflecting on the life and legacy of former Texas Longhorns running back Ted Koy, who recently passed away at the age of 79. Koy, a respected athlete and member of a prominent football family, leaves behind decades of influence both on and off the field.

Koy played for the University of Texas in the late 1960s, contributing to one of the program’s most celebrated eras. He was part of the 1969 national championship team under legendary coach Darrell K Royal, helping build the foundation for the Longhorns’ long-term success. His performance positioned him as one of the program’s notable offensive players during a time of major achievement for the team.

Koy’s Career and Lasting Impact

After his standout years in Austin, Koy went on to play professionally in the NFL. Although his pro career was shorter than his collegiate years, he remained connected to Texas sports. His family name is well known in football circles; his father, Ernie Koy Sr., was also a professional athlete, and his brothers continued the football tradition.

While Koy spent much of his adult life away from the spotlight, his leadership and character were regularly acknowledged by former teammates, coaches, and the broader Longhorns community. He was remembered as hardworking, thoughtful, and deeply committed to those around him. His contributions to Texas football continued to be celebrated long after his playing days ended.

Though he was not based in Houston later in life, Koy’s legacy resonates strongly across Texas, especially among local fans who followed the Longhorns during their championship years. Many from Houston’s football community have expressed condolences and shared memories of watching him play.

Why It Matters

Koy’s passing marks the loss of another figure from a transformational chapter in Texas sports history. College football holds deep cultural significance across the state, and the athletes of that era shaped both the identity of the program and the experiences of generations of fans.

Houston remains home to one of the largest concentrations of Longhorns alumni and supporters, making news of Koy’s passing especially meaningful for local residents who grew up during Texas’ golden era or passed their team pride to younger generations.

What’s Next

Tributes continue to appear online from fans, teammates, and sports historians. The University of Texas is expected to honor Koy in upcoming alumni communications and may recognize his contributions during future home games or team events.

As the Longhorns prepare for their upcoming season and move deeper into a new chapter of conference play, many fans look back at the foundations laid by players like Koy—athletes who helped build the program into what it is today.

This article is a summary of reporting by Sports Illustrated. Read the full story here.