Raymond Dyral Mathews (February 26, 1929 - December 20, 2015) was an American football running back and wide receiver in the National Football League for the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Dallas Cowboys. He played college football for Clemson University.

Early years

Mathews attended McKeesport Area High School, before moving on to Clemson University, where he played baseball and football. He was the starting halfback in a backfield that included Fred Cone.

The 1948 team finished undefeated and beat the University of Missouri, 24-23, in the 1949 Gator Bowl.

As a senior, he was a part of another undefeated season and played in the 1951 Orange Bowl, beating the University of Miami 15-14. He made an acrobatic reception for one of the touchdowns.

In 1978, he was inducted into the Clemson Athletic Hall of Fame.

Professional career

Pittsburgh Steelers

Mathews was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the seventh round (81st overall) of the 1951 NFL Draft. He was mostly a backup to running back Fran Rogel. He was switched to wide receiver in 1956. He was also used as a kickoff and punt returner.

He was the team's leading rusher in 1952, with 315 yards on 66 carries. He led the team in receiving in three straight seasons (1954-1956). He finished his Steelers career after appearing in 108 games with 230 receptions for 3,919 yards and 34 touchdowns, while rushing for 1,057 yards and five touchdowns on 300 carries. He also held the franchise records for longest reception (78 yards) and most touchdowns in a game (4). In 2007, he was named to the Pittsburgh Steelers Legends team.

Dallas Cowboys

Mathews was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the 1960 NFL Expansion Draft. He was the team captain for the first game in franchise history. He appeared in 6 games as a reserve player, while reuniting with former college teammate Fred Cone.

Personal life

After retiring as a player, he was an assistant coach for the Washington Redskins and the Calgary Stampeders. He later purchased a farm in Marion Township, Pennsylvania, where he died on December 20, 2015.

[ Source: Wikipedia ]