Former Saints linebacker James Haynes dead at age 60

The “Hitman” who made No. 92 a familiar number in the Black and Gold is gone.

Former New Orleans Saints linebacker James Haynes, who earned the nickname for his hard hitting style, passed away on Saturday, Nov. 14 at the age of 60 in Waxahachie, Texas.

Born in Tallulah, Louisiana, Haynes starred for Tallulah High School before playing at Coahoma Community College and at Mississippi Valley State.

Haynes played six seasons for the New Orleans Saints from 1984-89 as part of the first winning season and first playoff team in franchise history in 1997.

Haynes played in 61 games, starting 23. Haynes recovered five fumbles, recorded four sacks and had an interception return for a touchdown for New Orleans. The latter came on Sept. 24, 1986 when Haynes returned an interception 17 yards for a score in the second quarter of a 24-10 win over Green Bay at the Superdome.

Haynes started all 16 games at right outside linebacker, opposite Rickey Jackson, in Jim Mora’s first year as coach of the Saints. Pat Swilling took over that spot in 1987 while Haynes remained a valuable reserve and special teams player.

Haynes is survived by his wife, Linda Ballard Haynes, along with children James Jr., Randon and Ashley. Haynes is also survived by stepchildren Jarvis Roy Ballard and Quandrika Bennett.

Funeral arrangements are set for Living Cornerstone Church at 714 West St. Bernard Parkway in Poydras, Louisiana on Saturday, Nov. 21 at noon.

Click here for the obituary.