John Matuszak
1950–1989 (age 39)
Football player, Actor
Biography
John Matuszak combined his remarkable physical gifts with a determined heart. After starring at the University of Tampa, he became the No. 1 pick in the 1973 NFL Draft and helped anchor the Oakland and Los Angeles Raiders' defensive front en route to two Super Bowl titles, earning admiration for both his ferocity on the field and his generosity off of it.
Beyond football, he embraced acting, bringing warmth and humor to audiences in films and in charitable events, and he remained devoted to inspiring young people to pursue dreams with integrity; his legacy endures in the memories of those who were uplifted by his larger-than-life personality.