Topic: John Mackey

John Mackey (September 24, 1941 - July 6, 2011) was a former American Football tight end who grew up in Roosevelt, Long Island and played for the Baltimore Colts (1963-1971) and the San Diego Chargers (1972). He played collegiately at Syracuse University.

Mackey joined the Colts in 1963 and had revolutionized the position of tight end by 1966. During the 1966 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.