On this date in Gators history: Aug. 22 ... 1956
Wednesday, August 22, 2012 | Football, Chris Harry
Wes Chandler, one of the greatest wide receivers in UF history, was born in New Smyrna Beach, Fla.
Playing in Doug Dickey's run-based offense, Chandler caught 92 passes for 1,963 yards and left with a school-record 22 touchdowns before being taken by the New Orleans Saints with the No. 3 overall pick in the 1978 draft. Chandler remains tied with Steve Spurrier (3rd by San Francisco in '67) for the highest a Gator has ever been selected.
In the NFL, Chandler caught 559 passes for 8,966 yards, 56 touchdowns and went to four Pro Bowls during his 11-year career, later becoming a prime target for Dan Fouts and the San Diego Chargers.
Inducted into the UF Athletic Hall of Fame in 1989, the year after his retirement, and pursued a career in coaching. In January, he was hired as receivers coach at the University of California.
