Michael Proctor, one of the greatest players in Murray State football history and a former New England Patriots quarterback, has died.
He was 58.
Murray State first announced Proctor’s death on X.
“We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Murray State Athletics hall of Famer and Stable of Honor inductee, Michael Proctor,” the statement read. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the Proctor Family and all of his teammates during this incredibly difficult time.”
The 6-foot-4, 210 pounder was a four-year starter for the Racers. He was a two-time All-Ohio Valley Conference player, and in 1989 he was named Ohio Valley Conference Player of the Year. He passed for a conference record 9,886 yards during his career.
While his size and production was not enough to get him picked in the 1990 NFL Draft, it was enough to help Proctor get a chance.
He signed with the Patriots as an undrafted rookie free agent that year, and he also spent time with the Cleveland Browns. Outside of the NFL, he played with the Montreal Machine, the Saskatchewan Roughriders and in the arena league with the Charlotte Rage before wrapping up his playing career in 1996.
Proctor through for 3,492 yards and 51 touchdowns while rushing for another 12 scores during his time in the arena league.
“Seeing Michael Proctor’s #11 jersey hanging up inspired everybody who put on a @racersfootball uniform,” Casey Brockman wrote on X. “He was a great person and his smile could light up a room for hours. Homecoming won’t be the same without him. Gone but never forgotten!”