By Darin Before the tight end position became a modern NFL powerhouse, Ken MacAfee set the standard at Notre Dame, proving he was a dominant force as both a blocker and a prolific receiver. His incredible 1977 campaign wasn’t just personally decorated—earning three major awards and finishing third for the Heisman—it was the cornerstone of a National Championship season, solidifying his status as one of college football’s all-time greats.
Football Bio
January 6, 1956 – Portland, Oregon – The prolific tight end from the University of Notre Dame, Ken MacAfee, was born. Ken had some very good traits as a tight end, according to the FootballFoundation.org website. He was a dominant blocker and had a great set of hands for catching passes. Ken was an All-America selection three times. He added the Academic All-America title to his resume in 1977, as he also won the Walter Camp Player of the Year Award and was third in the Heisman Trophy vote. That year, he caught 54 passes for 797 yards and six touchdowns. It is no wonder that the Fighting Irish also won the National Championship that season! The National Football Foundation honored Ken MacAfee with entrance into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1997. https://footballfoundation.org/hof_search.aspx?hof=1984
Conclusion
Ken MacAfee’s career at Notre Dame was a rare blend of athletic excellence and academic achievement. His performance in the 1977 season—climaxed by a National Championship, a Walter Camp Player of the Year Award, and a third-place finish in the Heisman voting—showcases a level of dominance few collegiate players achieve. His foundational impact on the tight end position was permanently recognized in 1997 with his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1997)
- 3x All-America Selection
- Walter Camp Player of the Year Award (1977)
- Heisman Trophy Finalist (3rd place, 1977)
- Academic All-America (1977)
- NCAA National Champion (1977)
- University of Notre Dame Tight End
