John Mackey
Inducted:
1992
Player Stats
6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
224 lb (102 kg)
Born:
September 24, 1941
Roosevelt, New York, U.S.
Died:
July 6, 2011
Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.
Position:
Tight end
College:
Syracuse (1960–1962)
John Mackey was one of the most dynamic and revolutionary tight ends in NFL history, changing the way the position was played. Drafted by the Baltimore Colts in 1963, Mackey combined size, speed, and agility, making him a matchup nightmare for defenses and a primary weapon in the Colts’ passing attack. Over 11 seasons, he totaled 331 receptions for 5,236 yards and 38 touchdowns, earning a reputation as both a reliable receiver and a tough blocker.
Mackey helped lead the Colts to two NFL Championships (1968, 1970 Super Bowl V) and was a key factor in modernizing the tight end role into a versatile offensive threat. A five-time Pro Bowler and six-time First-Team All-Pro, Mackey’s impact extended off the field as he helped form the NFL Players Association to protect players’ rights. John Mackey was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1992, cementing his legacy as one of the game’s greatest tight ends.
Mackey's Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (V)
- NFL champion (1968)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (1966–1968)
- 5× Pro Bowl (1963, 1965–1968)
- NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
- NFL 50th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
NFL Records
- One of the first tight ends to be a consistent deep-threat receiver
- Key offensive weapon in two championship seasons
- Helped form the NFL Players Association to protect player rights
NFL Teams
Baltimore Colts (1963–1971)
San Diego Chargers (1972)
NFL Draft:
1963: 2nd round, 19th overall pick
Baltimore Colts
Number Worn:
88, 89
NFL Stats
Seasons:
11 (1963–1974)
Games Played:
139
Game Started:
118
Receptions:
331
Receiving yards:
5,236
Receiving touchdowns:
38
Yards per Catch:
15.3