Javelina Hall of Fame
Don Hardeman was a starter in 1971, 1972, 1973 and 1974 and played in the offensive backfield the first half of his career and as a linebacker the other half. He was inducted into the Javelina Hall of Fame in 1993.
He was selected to the NAIA, Kodak, Associated Press and Time Magazine All-America teams. He was the Lone Star Conference back of the year in 1974 and was on the all-conference squad for two years.
Hardeman, from Killeen, was the most valuable back in the 1974 NAIA national championship game and was a participant in the Senior Bowl. He was the most valuable player in the College All-Star game and was a participant in the All-American Game.
He was selected by teammates as the most valuable player in 1974 after rushing for 1,355 yards.
Hardeman was a first round draft choice of the Houston Oilers in 1975 and later played with the New Orleans Saints.
Hardeman has been a merchandise manager for Coors and worked at the Fair Grounds Race Track in New Orleans. He was marketing service supervisor for Anheuser-Busch in New Orleans and was a consultant for the Saints.
He is a member of the NFL Players Association, the Houston Jaycees and has participated in the Easter Seal telethon.
Hardeman is the father of five children: Don Jr., Eric, Cedric, Tarra and Demetrius.
