As a senior in high school, Fuller lived with the Phillips family, after his father was shot in a bar and his mother left town.
Bum Phillips later recommended Fuller again to an acquainted colleague, this time Alabama Crimson Tide coach Bear Bryant.
Fuller instantly became a favorite among Texas fans and alumni, as his defensive units frequently ranked among the nation's best.
Fuller then returned to Texas, replacing Paul Jette as Longhorns defensive coordinator for head coach David McWilliams.
Fuller came out of retirement in 2007 to replace Gary Gaines as athletic director of the Ector County Independent School District, and then hired him as head coach.