Jim Hudson†
Inducted 1994
Hometown: Steubenville, Ohio
High School: La Feria High School
College: The University of Texas
Professional: New York Jets
Best Known for: Athlete-Football
March 31, 1943-June 25, 2013
Hudson was one of the most dominant athletes in Valley annals, an All-State basketball player who set a state track meet record in the discus (169 feet, 9 inches) and went on to a solid NFL career with the New York Jets.
Hudson did it all for La Feria High School from 1957-1960, in football, basketball, and track, and then helped The University of Texas win its first national football title in 1963, leading the Longhorns with five interceptions. He lettered three times, starting at quarterback but moving to defense midway through college.
He was undrafted but signed by the New York Jets and played six seasons (1965-70), and his interception right before halftime in Super Bowl III keyed the Jets' thrilling 16-7 upset victory over the Baltimore Colts.
Hudson made 14 lifetime pro interceptions, including a team-high five in 1968, and is one of only six Valley athletes to play in pro football's championship game.