09/16/2026
James William “Jim” Collier, a former NFL tight end remembered for his versatility, athleticism, and his pivotal touchdown in the 1962 NFL Championship Game, passed away on September 13th, at the age of 87.
Born May 18, 1939, in Van Buren, Arkansas , Collier grew up in his hometown and graduated from Van Buren High School in 1957. He played numerous sports in high school. A gifted multi‑sport athlete, he excelled in football, basketball, and track—earning all‑state honors as a quarterback, all‑district recognition in basketball, and setting his school’s pole vault record .
Collier attended the University of Arkansas, where he played football from 1959 to 1961 as a wide receiver. Over his collegiate career, he recorded 514 receiving yards and five touchdowns on 28 receptions and during the1960 season he had three receiving touchdowns, tying him for most in the Southwest Conference. He also competed in basketball and track during his early college years, showcasing his broad athletic range.
Collier was selected by the New York Giants in the seventh round of the 1961 NFL Draft . Wearing number 84, he did not get much playing time because he was behind teammates such as Frank Gifford , and Del Shofner. He appeared in 13 games during the Giants’ 1962 season, a year in which the team finished 12–2 and won the NFL Eastern Division .
His defining moment came in the 1962 NFL Championship Game. Collier scored the Giants’ only touchdown by recovering a blocked punt on the goal line, narrowing the score to 10–7 before the team ultimately fell 16–7 to the Green Bay Packers . In 1963, Collier joined the Washington Redskins, wearing number 89 , and appeared in 14 games during a challenging 3–11 season.
From 1965 to 1979, Collier served as a wide receivers coach at LSU under head coach Charles McClendon . Known for his relaxed, approachable style, he built strong relationships with players—sometimes even lending out his boat for weekend fishing trips, a gesture he later joked would “put you in jail” under modern NCAA rules. His years at LSU left a lasting impact on generations of Tigers athletes, many of whom remembered him as a steady mentor and trusted friend.
Jim Collier’s life was defined by athletic achievement, quiet leadership, and a genuine love for the game of football. From his multi‑sport high school days to his memorable championship touchdown and long coaching career, he left an enduring mark on every team and community he touched.
Condolences to his family and friends and may he Rest in Peace.
Sourced using Wikipedia, MSN and Collier's online obituary.