Mackey was only the second player who performed strictly as a tight end to become a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Mackey was a durable performer who missed only one game in 10 years.
The 6-2, 224-pound Syracuse University star joined the Baltimore Colts as a No. 2 draft pick in 1963.
John played nine seasons with the Colts and then finished his 10-year career with the San Diego Chargers in 1972.
In 10 seasons, Mackey caught 331 passes for 5,236 yards and 38 touchdowns.
Mackey started every game as a rookie and then became the only first-year star to be picked for that year's Pro Bowl.
John Mackey was enshrined in 1992.
John with his bust and mural in 1992.
John Mackey's Hall of Fame mural.
John Mackey's bust at the Hall of Fame.