Mack Herron facts for kids
Mack Willie Herron (July 24, 1948 – December 6, 2015) was a talented American football running back. He played in the National Football League (NFL) from 1973 to 1976. Before joining the NFL, he was a star in college at Kansas State and also played in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Herron was known for his incredible speed and ability to gain many yards, setting records during his career.
| No. 26, 42 | |
| Born: | July 24, 1948 Biloxi, Mississippi |
|---|---|
| Died: | December 6, 2015 (aged 67) Chicago, Illinois |
| Career information | |
| CFL status | International |
| Position(s) | RB |
| Height | 5 ft 5 in (165 cm) |
| Weight | 170 lb (77 kg) |
| College | Kansas State |
| NFL draft | 1970 / Round: 6 / Pick: 143 |
| Drafted by | Atlanta Falcons |
| Career history | |
| As player | |
| 1970–1972 | Winnipeg Blue Bombers (CFL) |
| 1973–1975 | New England Patriots |
| 1975 | Atlanta Falcons |
| Career highlights and awards | |
| CFL All-Star | 1972 |
| CFL West All-Star | 1971, 1972 |
| Awards |
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Mack Herron's Football Journey
Mack Herron was a strong player, standing 5 feet 5+1⁄2 inches (1.66 metres) tall and weighing 170 pounds (77.1 kg). He was chosen by the Atlanta Falcons in the 1970 NFL Draft. This was a big achievement, as he was the 143rd player picked overall. However, he decided to start his professional career in the Canadian Football League (CFL) first.
Playing in the CFL
Herron played for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the CFL. In 1972, he had an amazing season. He won the Eddie James Memorial Trophy for being the top rusher in the CFL's West Division. He was also a leader in gaining "all-purpose yards" in both of his CFL seasons. All-purpose yards means combining yards from running, catching, and returning kicks.
Moving to the NFL
In 1973, Mack Herron joined the New England Patriots in the NFL. He later played for the Atlanta Falcons. During his three seasons in the NFL, he ran for 1,298 yards and scored 9 touchdowns by running. He also caught 61 passes for 789 yards and 6 touchdowns.
Setting Records
Mack Herron was especially good at returning kickoffs. In 1973, he led the entire NFL in kickoff returns and the total yards gained from them. His best season was in 1974 with the Patriots. That year, he set an NFL record for all-purpose yards, gaining an incredible 2,444 yards! This showed how versatile and important he was to his team.
Even after his playing days, Herron's skills were remembered. He is still ranked among the best for career punt return average and kickoff return average. In 2009, he was honored by being named to the Patriots All-Decade Team for the 1970s as a kick returner.
Mack Herron passed away on December 6, 2015, at the age of 67. He is remembered as a talented football player who made a significant impact during his time in both the CFL and NFL.
