BALTIMORE (AP) — John Mackey, a Hall of Fame former player for the Baltimore Colts who had battled with dementia, has died. He was 69.
Chad Steele, a spokesman for the Baltimore Ravens, said Thursday that Mackey’s wife had notified the team about her husband’s death.
WATCH NBC’S NIGHTLY NEWS COVERAGE HERE
Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy
Mackey played for the Baltimore Colts from 1963 to 1971. He also played for the San Diego Chargers in 1972. He caught 331 passes for 5,236 yards and 38 touchdowns in a 10-season career.
A NFL labor agreement ratified in 2006 includes the so-called “88 plan,” named for Mackey’s number, 88. It provides up to $88,000 a year for nursing care or day care for ex-players with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, or $50,000 for home care.
Copyright 2011 The Associated Press
