BREAKING: Arizona State to Erect Statue at Mountain America Stadium Honoring Mike Haynes for His Legacy and Impact on Franchise Greatness…(ESPN Report)
BREAKING: Arizona State to Erect Statue at Mountain America Stadium Honoring Mike Haynes for His Legacy and Impact on Franchise Greatness
(ESPN Report)
Tempe, AZ — In a move that cements the legacy of one of college football’s most iconic defensive backs, Arizona State University announced plans today to erect a statue of Hall of Famer Mike Haynes outside Mountain America Stadium. The statue, expected to be unveiled before the start of the 2025 season, will honor Haynes’ unmatched impact on both the Sun Devils program and his legendary professional career.
The announcement came during a press conference hosted by ASU Athletic Director Ray Anderson, who called Haynes “a transcendent figure not only for Arizona State but for the game of football itself.”
“Mike Haynes didn’t just play the game — he redefined it,” Anderson said. “He was a lockdown corner before the term even existed, and his influence can be felt across generations of players. This statue is more than a tribute; it’s a permanent symbol of excellence, humility, and greatness.”
Haynes, who played at Arizona State from 1972 to 1975, was a consensus All-American and a key part of the Sun Devils’ rise to national prominence. Known for his elite speed, technique, and intelligence, Haynes recorded 17 interceptions and was also a standout punt returner. His leadership helped catapult ASU to a 12-0 season in 1975, culminating in a Fiesta Bowl victory and a No. 2 national ranking.
After being selected 5th overall in the 1976 NFL Draft, Haynes went on to a storied 14-year career with the New England Patriots and the Los Angeles Raiders, earning nine Pro Bowl selections and a Super Bowl ring. He was inducted into both the College Football Hall of Fame and the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Now, his legacy will stand tall in bronze, with the statue to be placed on the stadium’s Legends Plaza — joining fellow ASU greats like Pat Tillman and Frank Kush.
Haynes, now 71, was present at the announcement and expressed deep gratitude for the honor.
“I never played the game for recognition,” Haynes said. “I played to win, to grow, and to represent my school and team with pride. But to know that young athletes will walk past this statue and maybe be inspired — that means more than I can put into words.”
The statue will be designed by renowned sculptor Brian Hanlon, who has previously created statues for other sports legends across the nation. According to university officials, it will depict Haynes in mid-stride, breaking on a pass — a nod to his uncanny ability to anticipate plays and change the course of a game in an instant.
The unveiling ceremony is set for September 6, 2025, ahead of ASU’s home opener. Fans, alumni, and former teammates are expected to gather in celebration of a man whose greatness continues to echo across the gridiron and beyond.
Would you like a visual mock-up or concept sketch of the statue?