Inside the Loud House
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Syracuse Football: Best non-first round SU picks in NFL Draft history

By Paul A. Esden Jr.

23 Jan 1994: Running back Daryl Johnston of the Dallas Cowboys (right) gets tackled by San Francisco 49ers defensive back Don Griffin during a playoff game at Texas Stadium in Irving, Texas. The Cowboys won the game, 38-21. Mandatory Credit: Mike Powell
23 Jan 1994: Running back Daryl Johnston of the Dallas Cowboys (right) gets tackled by San Francisco 49ers defensive back Don Griffin during a playoff game at Texas Stadium in Irving, Texas. The Cowboys won the game, 38-21. Mandatory Credit: Mike Powell /
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46. . . . John Mackey. 1. team

  • Second round pick (19th overall) in the 1963 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Colts.
  • Played for Syracuse from 1960 through 1962.

If you don’t know who John Mackey is, SHAME ON YOU! He’s one of (if not) the greatest tight end of all-time. Something that speaks to that is the annual ‘John Mackey Award’ presented to college football’s most outstanding tight end.

Mackey is a Pro Football Hall of Famer, a five-time Pro Bowler, and was captain consistency. In his pro career, Mackey only ever missed one game. He ultimately had to retire due to a recurring knee issue.

Back in the day, tight ends were glorified offensive linemen, they aren’t the pass happy crazy extra wide receivers they’re considered today. His numbers at Syracuse are marginal by today’s standards, but everyone knew his true impact and how he changed the game.

Next: Syracuse Football: Ranking every SU first round pick in NFL Draft history

Not only was Mackey a terrific football player, but he was also a humanitarian. Mackey was the first president of the NFLPA following the AFL-NFL merger. Former No. 88, helped create the ’88 plan’ to financially support ex-players in their lives after football.

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