From the NFL to the Hall of Fame: Ovie Mughelli Inducted into Wake Forest's 2025 Hall of Fame

ATLANTA - Sept. 30, 2024 - PRLog -- Wake Forest University and the Winston-Salem community proudly announce that Ovie Mughelli, one of the most celebrated fullbacks in Wake Forest history, has been selected for induction into the prestigious Wake Forest Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2025.

Mughelli, remembered for his powerful plays and leadership, joins an esteemed class that includes men's basketball coach Skip Prosser, women's soccer stars Katie Stengel and Aubrey Bledsoe, 2007 NCAA National Champion Ike Opara, trailblazer Keeva Jackson-Breland, and renowned golf course designer Bill Coore. The 2025 inductees are recognized for their extraordinary contributions to Wake Forest athletics, inspiring generations of Demon Deacons and leaving indelible marks on their respective sports.

During his time at Wake Forest, Mughelli's achievements were nothing short of exceptional. Playing in 43 games, he rushed for 530 yards on 137 carries and scored 12 touchdowns in his senior year, leading the Demon Deacons to a 7-6 record and a Seattle Bowl appearance. That season, Mughelli's dominance on the field earned him First-Team All-ACC honors and recognition as the top fullback prospect in the nation. He was subsequently selected in the fourth round (134th overall) of the 2003 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens, becoming the first-ever Wake Forest player to be drafted by the franchise.

In the NFL, Mughelli's career spanned a decade, playing for the Ravens (2003-2006), Atlanta Falcons (2007-2011), and St. Louis Rams (2012). Known for his fierce blocking ability and versatility out of the backfield, he earned two Pro Bowl selections (2006 and 2010) and All-Pro honors in 2010. Mughelli was a key factor in helping Jamal Lewis achieve one of the few 2,000-yard rushing seasons in NFL history during his rookie year, further solidifying his reputation as one of the premier fullbacks of his era. Throughout his career, Mughelli tallied 62 receptions for 490 receiving yards and scored seven touchdowns.

Reflecting on this honor, Mughelli said, "Being inducted into the Wake Forest Sports Hall of Fame is a dream come true. My time at Wake Forest was incredibly formative, and I am beyond grateful to the university, my coaches, teammates, and fans for their support throughout my journey."

The Hall of Fame induction ceremony will take place in early 2025. The Wake Forest community looks forward to celebrating the remarkable careers and legacies of these seven inductees, whose achievements both on and off the field continue to resonate within the university.

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