Derek Stingley Jr., the All-Pro cornerback for the Houston Texans, is set to face the New England Patriots in a highly anticipated game this Sunday. Remarkably, he has familial ties to the Patriots organization through his grandfather, Darryl Stingley, who played as a wide receiver for the team in the 1970s.
Darryl Stingley, selected in the first round of the 1973 NFL Draft, had a notable career, appearing in 60 games over five seasons where he recorded 110 receptions and 14 touchdowns. Unfortunately, his career was cut short when he suffered a horrific injury in a preseason game in 1978 after a hit from Oakland Raiders safety Jack Tatum, which left him paralyzed from the neck down. This tragic event had wider implications, prompting NFL Hall of Fame guard Gene Upshaw, who later became NFLPA President, to advocate for benefits set aside for disabled players.
Following his playing career, Darryl Stingley remained connected to the Patriots as a consultant, also dedicating himself to advocacy work. Derek Stingley Jr., who was drafted third overall by the Texans in 2022, shared with reporters that he does not remember much about his grandfather, who passed away in 2007. He noted that while his father rarely discussed Darryl’s injury, he taught him the importance of trusting his techniques and staying safe on the field.
As the Texans prepare to take on the Patriots, kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m., and the game promises to be a special occasion, highlighting the legacy of the Stingley family in professional football.