John Mackey (born September 24, 1941, New York City, New York) is a former American Football tight end who played for the Baltimore Colts (1963-1971) and the San Diego Chargers (1972). He played collegiately at Syracuse University.
In 1963, Mackey joined the Colts and by 1966, had revolutionized the position of tight end in the NFL. That season, of the nine touchdowns he compiled, six were scores of more than 50 yards, and he served as one of Joh...
more
John Mackey (born September 24, 1941, New York City, New York) is a former American Football tight end who played for the Baltimore Colts (1963-1971) and the San Diego Chargers (1972). He played collegiately at Syracuse University.
In 1963, Mackey joined the Colts and by 1966, had revolutionized the position of tight end in the NFL. That season, of the nine touchdowns he compiled, six were scores of more than 50 yards, and he served as one of Johnny Unitas' primary receivers. Twice Mackey compiled season averages of more than 20 yards a catch, and his 10-year career average of 15.8 is considered remarkable for a tight end.
Mackey also displayed impressive speed for a tight end. During one season, the Colts decided to use him as a kick returner. He returned 9 kickoffs for 271 yards, an impressive 30.1 yards per return.
Although injuries forced him into early retirement, Mackey proved to be an exremely durable player, missing only one game in his 10-season career.
In Super Bowl V played...
less
