Ernie Jennings facts for kids

Ernie Jennings (born January 30, 1949) is a former American football player. He was a talented wide receiver who played college football at the United States Air Force Academy. Ernie was known for his amazing skills on the field.

Who is Ernie Jennings?

Ernie Jennings was born in Atchison, Kansas. He went to Kansas City Central High School in Kansas City, Missouri. After high school, he joined the United States Air Force Academy. He first started playing football there as a defensive back.

College Football Star

Ernie Jennings quickly became a star player at the Air Force Academy. He switched to playing wide receiver. In 1970, he was named a consensus All-American. This means he was considered one of the very best college football players in the country.

Amazing College Records

In 1970, Ernie caught 74 passes for 1,289 yards. He also led all of NCAA Division I football with 17 receiving touchdowns. A touchdown is when a player catches the ball in the end zone. He even finished eighth in the voting for the Heisman Trophy. This award goes to the most outstanding player in college football.

Ernie still holds several records at Air Force. He is their all-time leader in catches with 148. He is also second in receiving yards with 2,392. He leads the team in receiving touchdowns with 28. In 2014, he was considered for the College Football Hall of Fame.

After College Football

After his incredible college career, Ernie Jennings was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers. This happened in the tenth round of the 1971 NFL draft. The NFL draft is where professional teams pick new players.

From Military to NASA

Ernie spent some time serving in the military after college. He was released by the San Francisco 49ers in August 1975. After his football career, Ernie Jennings started a new path. In 1976, he began working at NASA. NASA is the United States' space agency.