John Hilton was a three-sport star at Hermitage High School, Richmond. Hilton attended Fork Union Military Academy, and then the University of Richmond, where he played football under Virginia Sports Hall of Fame inductee Ed Merrick and was selected to the All-State team three times (1961-62-64). After college, Hilton enjoyed a nine-year NFL playing career. As a Pittsburgh Steeler, Hilton set a record for receptions by a tight end (46) that stood for 25 years. Hilton went on to spend seven years as an NFL special teams and receiver coach
