Mike Battle, a celebrated All-American defensive back from USC and former Jets player, sadly passed away last week, as USC shared on Tuesday.
Battle passed away due to natural causes in Nellysford, Virginia, on March 6, at the age of 78.
Back in 1967, he helped lead USC to a national championship and was subsequently drafted by the Jets in the 12th round of the 1969 NFL Draft. During his two-year stint with the team, he participated in 28 regular season games and even featured in a playoff game.
In an interesting twist to his career, Battle appeared in a movie alongside his famous teammate Joe Namath and actress Ann-Margret in the 1970 film “C.C. and Company.”
During his college days, Battle shone brightly on the football field, playing a pivotal role in USC’s success. The team secured three successive conference championships from 1966 to 1968, each leading to a thrilling Rose Bowl appearance.
Battle was an exceptional punt returner, leading the Trojans for all three seasons and holding onto the school record for returning the most punts—99 in total. In 1967, he became the NCAA’s statistical champion with 49 punt returns, amassing 608 yards and a 12.4-yard average.
Defensively, Battle proved to be a force, tying for sixth in USC history with 13 career interceptions totaling 148 yards. He led the team in interceptions with five during the standout year of 1967.
