By Darin Born in Dallas, Texas, Rickey Dixon’s tenure with the Oklahoma Sooners transformed the defensive back position in the late 1980s. His blend of speed, coverage skill, and tackling prowess earned him college football’s highest honors and a spot among the game’s immortal defensive talents, culminating in a prestigious Hall of Fame induction.
Football Bio
December 26, 1966 – Dallas, Texas – The great defensive back of the Oklahoma Sooners, Rickey Dixon, was born. Rickey Dixon was honored with induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2019.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Defensive Dominance
Rickey Dixon’s legacy is that of an elite defensive playmaker who dominated the college game. His recognition as a consensus All-American, the recipient of the Jim Thorpe Award, and his subsequent induction into the College Football Hall of Fame cement his status as one of Oklahoma’s all-time defensive greats. He remains a standard for excellence among defensive backs.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- Position: Defensive Back (Cornerback/Safety)
- College: University of Oklahoma (Sooners)
- Jim Thorpe Award Winner: 1987 (Awarded to the nation’s best defensive back)
- Consensus All-American: 1987
- NFL Draft: 1st Round, 5th overall pick by the Cincinnati Bengals (1988)
- NFL Career: Played 6 seasons for the Cincinnati Bengals and the Los Angeles Raiders.
- College Football Hall of Fame Inductee: 2019
