Dallas Clark, a former Iowa tight end and NFL legend, has been selected to serve on the 12‑member committee that oversees the John Mackey Award, presented annually to the nation’s most outstanding tight end.
A Committee of Football Legends
The panel brings together a who's‑who of the sport, including former players such as Brian Mitchell, Greg Jones and Jake Marsh, as well as broadcasters like Noah Eagle and analysts such as Aaron Taylor. Their collective experience spans Super Bowl victories, All‑American honors and decades of professional play.
Clark’s appointment follows a distinguished college career in which he helped Iowa capture a Big Ten title and finish the 2002 season 11‑2. As a consensus first‑team All‑American and All‑Big Ten selection, he amassed 1,281 receiving yards and eight touchdowns on 77 receptions, a performance that later earned him a place in the Iowa Athletics Hall of Fame.
After being drafted in the first round by the Indianapolis Colts in 2003, Clark became a cornerstone of the franchise’s offense. He contributed to a Super Bowl championship in 2006, earned a place in the Colts’ Ring of Honor and was recognized as a first‑team All‑Pro and Pro Bowl selection in 2009, finishing his career with 5,665 receiving yards and 53 touchdowns.
From College to the Pros
His legacy extends beyond personal accolades; Clark joins an exclusive group of Hawkeyes who have captured the Mackey Award. T.J. Hockenson and Sam LaPorta have carried the torch, with LaPorta a 2022 finalist and earlier semifinalists Tony Moeaki, Allen Reisner and Noah Fant also earning recognition. The current preseason watchlist also features DJ Vonnahme, underscoring the program’s continued presence in the conversation.
The committee’s diverse expertise will shape the award’s criteria as the next generation of tight ends vies for the honor. With representatives from the NFL, college football and media, the panel aims to celebrate the position’s evolving impact on the field.