Ernie Jennings facts for kids
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| Position: | Wide receiver |
| Personal information | |
| Born: | January 30, 1949 Atchison, Kansas, U.S. |
| Career information | |
| High school: | Kansas City Central (Kansas City, Missouri) |
| College: | Air Force |
| NFL Draft: | 1971 / Round: 10 / Pick: 257 |
| Career history | |
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| Career highlights and awards | |
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Ernie Jennings, born on January 30, 1949, is a former American college football player. He was a talented wide receiver for the Air Force Falcons team. Ernie was recognized as one of the best college players in the country, earning the "All-American" title in 1970.
Contents
Early Life
Growing Up in Kansas
Ernie Jennings was born in Atchison, Kansas. He grew up and went to high school in Kansas City, Missouri, attending Kansas City Central High School.
College Career
Playing for the Air Force Falcons
Ernie Jennings played college football for the Air Force Falcons. This team represents the United States Air Force Academy. He first joined the team as a defensive back. This is a player who defends against passes. However, he soon switched to playing wide receiver. This is a position where players catch passes from the quarterback.
Ernie's Amazing 1970 Season
In 1970, Ernie had an incredible season. He was named a consensus All-American. This means he was chosen by many different groups as one of the best college football players in the nation. He also finished eighth in the voting for the Heisman Trophy. This award goes to the most outstanding player in college football.
During that year, Ernie caught 74 passes for 1,289 yards. He also led all of NCAA Division I football in receiving touchdowns with 17.
Air Force Records
Ernie Jennings holds several records for the Air Force Falcons. He is the team's all-time leader in receptions, with 148 catches. He is also second in receiving yards, with 2,392 yards. Ernie leads the team in receiving touchdowns with 28.
Professional Career
Joining the NFL
After his amazing college career, Ernie Jennings was chosen by the San Francisco 49ers. This happened in the tenth round of the 1971 NFL draft. The NFL draft is where professional football teams pick new players.
Time in the Military
After college, Ernie spent some time serving in the military. He was later released by the San Francisco 49ers in August 1975.
Personal Life
Career at NASA
After his football career, Ernie Jennings began a new path. In 1976, he started working at NASA. NASA is the United States' space agency.
