Sammy Price, a running back and fullback who played for the Miami Dolphins during the franchise’s first three seasons, died Aug. 5, according to social media posts by his niece and son. He was 82.

Former University of Illinois sports information director Mike Pearson confirmed the news on his Twitter/X account, following numerous tributes from friends and family on Facebook.

Price was born Oct. 1, 1943, in Margaret, Alabama, and attended Jesup Wakeman Scott High School in Toledo, Ohio. He went on to play football at the University of Illinois from 1962-65.

Price became a significant part of the Illinois backfield during his final three seasons. In 1963, he rushed for 326 yards and three touchdowns on 88 carries and added 98 receiving yards. He followed with 225 rushing yards and 95 receiving yards in 1964.

As a senior in 1965, Price rushed 46 times for 178 yards and two touchdowns and caught seven passes for 38 yards. For his Illinois career, Price finished with 729 rushing yards, 231 receiving yards and seven total touchdowns.

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The Dolphins selected Price with the first pick of the 11th round of the 1966 American Football League draft (92nd overall). The New York Giants also selected him in the 16th round of the NFL draft (240th overall). Price chose Miami and became one of the players who helped populate the expansion franchise’s first roster.

Price wore No. 30 during his three seasons for the Dolphins (1966-68). He appeared in 36 games and started nine, seeing time at halfback and fullback. His most prominent season came in 1967, when he started all nine games and finished third on head coach George Wilson's team in rushing attempts.

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Price finished his AFL career with 313 rushing yards on 82 carries, an average of 3.8 yards per attempt. He caught 10 passes for 70 yards and scored two touchdowns, one rushing and one receiving. His career totals were modest, but he held an important place in franchise history.

After retiring from football, Price undertook an array of business ventures from car sales to restaurant ownership. He is survived by children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

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