John Kuhn’s journey from Shippensburg University to the National Football League (NFL) is a testament to dedication, hard work, and exceptional talent. His remarkable career has earned him a place in the Shippensburg University Athletics Hall of Fame, solidifying his legacy as one of the institution’s most celebrated athletes.
Kuhn’s time as a fullback for the Shippensburg Raiders from 2001 to 2004 was nothing short of extraordinary. Under the guidance of Coach Rocky Rees, he became a powerhouse, contributing significantly to the team’s impressive 32-13 record during his tenure. His on-field prowess translated into record-breaking statistics. By the time he graduated, John Kuhn had amassed an astounding 27 school records and four Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) records. These included an incredible 4,685 rushing yards, 53 rushing touchdowns, and 5,300 all-purpose yards. Notably, he achieved 100+ rushing yards in 26 different games, showcasing his consistent dominance. One standout performance was against California (Pa.) in 2002, where he scored six rushing touchdowns in a single game – a PSAC record that still stands.
His exceptional college career garnered national recognition. John Kuhn was twice named an American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) All-American, a prestigious honor voted on by head coaches across the nation. He was also a three-time All-PSAC selection and was honored as the PSAC Western Division Offensive Player of the Year in 2003 during his junior year. As a senior, he was a finalist for the Harlon Hill Trophy, awarded to the most outstanding player in NCAA Division II football. Kuhn’s excellence extended beyond the football field. He was a two-time ESPN The Magazine/CoSIDA Academic All-America First Team recipient, acknowledging his outstanding academic performance in his junior and senior years. Further academic accolades include being a two-time PSAC Fall Top Ten Award winner, the first male student-athlete from Shippensburg to achieve this twice, and earning Academic All-District honors for three consecutive years. Even during his college summers, Kuhn demonstrated commitment and a strong work ethic, working as a lab technician for the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection in 2003 and for Johnson & Johnson in 2004.
Upon graduating from Shippensburg, John Kuhn’s football journey continued into the professional realm. Signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers in April 2005, this marked the beginning of a remarkable 13-year NFL career. He spent two seasons with the Steelers, experiencing the ultimate team success by winning a Super Bowl ring in 2006. Subsequently, he was claimed by the Green Bay Packers, where he truly cemented his NFL legacy over nine seasons. With the Packers, Kuhn secured another Super Bowl victory in 2011, earned All-Pro honors in 2012, and was selected to three Pro Bowls, becoming a fan favorite and a key player for Green Bay. His final two NFL seasons were played with the New Orleans Saints, adding further experience and leadership to his impressive resume. Throughout his 13-year NFL career, John Kuhn accumulated over 650 rushing yards, scored 19 regular-season touchdowns and six postseason touchdowns, all while playing a crucial role blocking for legendary quarterbacks like Aaron Rodgers and Drew Brees.
John Kuhn officially retired from the NFL in March 2019, with a ceremony held by the Green Bay Packers, a fitting tribute to his impactful years with the team. His personal life is equally fulfilling; he is married to Lindsey Incorvati, a fellow Shippensburg University alumna from the class of 2006, who was a member of the university’s track & field and soccer teams. John Kuhn’s induction into the Shippensburg Athletics Hall of Fame is a well-deserved honor, celebrating his outstanding achievements both at the university and in the NFL. His story is an inspiration to aspiring athletes and exemplifies the values of hard work, dedication, and excellence both on and off the field.
