Henry Matthews

John Henry Matthews Jr. (born March 17, 1949) is an American former professional football running back who played in the National Football League (NFL) with the New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, and Atlanta Falcons. He played college football for the Michigan State Spartans.

Early life John Henry Matthews Jr. was born on March 17, 1949, in Akron, Ohio. He played high school football at South High School in Akron. As a senior in 1967, he scored nine touchdowns and rushed for nearly 400 yards. He also completed five passes, two for touchdowns. He was a linebacker on the varsity team in 1969 but did not earn a letter. On November 19, 1969, after Kermit Smith suffered an injury, Matthews was moved to second-string fullback. He appeared in all 11 games during the 1971 season, recording 53 carries for 202 yards and two receptions for nine yards. On August 12, it was reported that he had been placed on the taxi squad for the 1972 season and also signed a contract for the 1973 season. He was later promoted to the active roster and played in three games for the Patriots during the 1972 season, returning three kicks for 74 yards. He played in the first six games of the 1973 season for the Saints, rushing four times for four yards, catching two passes for 19 yards, and recovering one fumble for 55 yards.

Matthews was claimed off waivers by the Atlanta Falcons.