At the University of Southern California, Roberts led the Trojans to a 44–20 victory over Texas during the 1956 season. It was the first time a black player competed against a white player in that state.[citation needed] He rushed for 251 yards on only 12 carries and was cheered as he left the field. Prior to the event, the University of Texas did not want him to attend the game, but the USC players refused to play without him. He was shouted down and called the "N" word by some fans.
After being drafted in the 14th round of the 1958 NFL draft by the New York Giants, Roberts opted instead to sign with the Toronto Argonauts of the "Big Four" (soon to be renamed the Eastern Conference) of the Canadian Football League, whose head coach was fellow Californian Hamp Pool. Forming what the Canadian Press called "the best all-round backfield in the Big Four" along with Dick Shatto and fellow rookie Dave Mann, Roberts rushed for 595 yards and five touchdowns, including touchdown runs of 67 and 85 yards.[1]
After 10 games in double blue, however, he became a casualty of the 12-man import quota limiting the number of US players who could suit up for the Argos, and was released by Pool in favor of the more versatile Jim Rountree, a defensive standout.
Home in the United States, Roberts tried out in 1959 for the Pittsburgh Steelers, but failed to make the team. After being cut, he was picked up by the San Francisco 49ers and played for the team between 1959 and 1962.
Life after football
Even during his NFL career, Roberts, who held a Masters of Business Administration degree, worked in the off-season as an independent building contractor.[2]
Death
Roberts died at a care facility in Norwalk, California, on July 11, 2023, at the age of 87.[3]
^Dan McGuire (ed.), The San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League Present the Shotgun Offense: Press, Radio, Television Information for 1961. San Francisco, CA: San Francisco 49ers Football Club, 1961; p. 29.
