(AP Photo/ho)

BALTIMORE (AP) John Mackey revolutionized the tight end position, his incomparable ability to catch passes off the line of scrimmage helping to usher the NFL into the pass-happy modern era.

After his retirement, Mackey remained on the forefront of change in professional football. He pushed for better health care and championed the cause of former players, even as he battled the dementia that ultimately forced him into an assisted-living facility.

The Hall of Famer for the Baltimore Colts died at age 69. Mackey's wife notified the team about her husband's death, Ravens spokesman Chad Steele said Thursday. No cause was given.

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