John "Deac" Sanders - Inducted 2025

1968 Sunshine Bible Academy (near Miller)/1973 USD graduate.

Born in Chicago, Sanders played six seasons as a defensive back in the NFL (1974-76 with New England and 1977-79 with Philadelphia). The 6-1, 177-pounder intercepted six passes in 1977 (second best in the NFL that year) and five each in 1974 and 1978 for a career total of 17, returning two for touchdowns. He played in 60 NFL games, starting 51 of them and recovered seven career fumbles. Was teaching school when he was signed as an undrafted free agent by New England in 1974, playing first as a cornerback and then as a free safety. Sanders replaced Bill Bradley as the starting free safety of the Eagles in 1977, Dick Vermeil’s second year as Philadelphia’s coach. At USD, had a school record 15 interceptions and was considered one of the best cornerbacks to ever play for the Coyotes. In 1972, Sanders led USD to a 9-1 record, its first North Central Conference title since 1951 and a No. 4 national ranking. He was a two-time all-NCC, and he also set the USD record for longest punt return (84 yards). Entered the USD Hall of Fame in 1992. In high school, Sanders was a multi-sport standout in football, basketball and track, earning letters in each sport three times. He was the 1968 state track champion in the long jump.