Ricky Sanders is a former American football wide receiver who played for several teams during his career. He was born on December 6, 1962, in Temple, Texas, and attended Temple High School, where he played football and basketball. Sanders went on to play college football at Southwest Texas State University, where he was a standout wide receiver.
Sanders was drafted by the Houston Oilers in the eighth round of the 1984 NFL Draft but was released before the start of the season. He then signed with the USFL's Houston Gamblers, where he played for two seasons and was a key part of the team's high-powered offense. In 1985, Sanders caught 101 passes for 1,938 yards and 15 touchdowns, helping the Gamblers to a 13-5 record.
After the USFL folded in 1986, Sanders signed with the Washington Redskins, where he played for four seasons. He was a key member of the team's offense during their Super Bowl XXII victory in 1988, catching nine passes for 193 yards and two touchdowns in the game. Sanders was also named to the Pro Bowl that season.
In 1990, Sanders was traded to the Atlanta Falcons, where he played for two seasons. He then signed with the Detroit Lions in 1992, where he played for one season before being released. Sanders then signed with the Houston Oilers in 1993 but was released before the start of the season.
Sanders signed with the Miami Dolphins in 1994 but played in only two games before being released. He then signed with the Dallas Cowboys, where he played for one season before retiring after the 1995 season.
Throughout his career, Sanders was known for his speed and ability to make big plays. He finished his NFL career with 483 receptions for 6,749 yards and 37 touchdowns. Sanders also had success as a return specialist, returning 54 punts for 563 yards and two touchdowns and 23 kickoffs for 492 yards.
After retiring from football, Sanders worked as a coach and scout for several teams, including the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans, and Washington Redskins. He also worked as a television analyst for college football games.
Overall, Ricky Sanders had a successful football career, playing for several teams and making a significant impact on the field. He was a key member of the Washington Redskins during their Super Bowl victory in 1988 and was known for his speed and ability to make big plays.
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