[2] His physical style of play made him one of the most feared defensive backs in the game at a time when pass interference rules were less stringent.

Blount was the prototype cornerback of his era and a significant reason why the Pittsburgh Steelers were the dominant team of the National Football League in the 1970s.

[3] A third-round draft choice of the Steelers in 1970, he had the size, speed, and quickness for the position, plus the toughness and mental ability to adjust his coverage tactics and excel despite rule changes that favored receivers.

[citation needed] A Pro-Scouts All-American as both a safety and cornerback at Southern, Blount became a starter in the Steelers secondary beginning in 1972.

Earlier in Super Bowl XIII Blount's interception began a Pittsburgh drive which resulted in a go-ahead touchdown in a 35–31 victory over the Dallas Cowboys.

He founded the Mel Blount Youth Home, a shelter and Christian mission for victims of child abuse and neglect in Toombs County, Georgia in 1983.

His son Akil played college football at Florida A&M and was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Miami Dolphins.

[9] His youngest son, Khalid Blount, is a football player who was ranked as a two-star recruit by Rivals before attending Duquesne University.