WVU Sports Hall of Fame

Inducted: 2001

Written by Shelly Poe

John Mallory, voted WVU's 1967 football most valuable player, led the Mountaineers in punt returns from 1965-67 while excelling as a defensive back.

Intercepting 10 passes during his career, he returned 70 punts for 1,049 yards, scoring seven touchdowns - a school record. A two-year all-Southern Conference pick, he earned honorable mention All-America honors. He also lettered twice for the WVU track team.

Drafted in the 10th round by the NFL's Philadelphia Eagles, he played in all 14 games his rookie season.

Traded the next year to Atlanta, he became the Falcons' all-time punt return leader. Mallory also played two seasons with the WFL's Houston Texans, recording seven interceptions. A native of Summit, N.J., Mallory is currently in business in Whitehouse Station, N.J.