Karl Mecklenburg is a former professional linebacker. He attened the University of Minnesota and played football there.

In 1983, the Denver Broncos drafted Karl Mecklenburg in the 12th round with the 310th pick overall. In spite of his low selection, Mecklenburg went on to become an integral part of the Broncos' Super Bowl teams of the 1980s. He played in six Pro Bowls. As of 2021, his 79.5 sacks is the third highest total in franchise history and he is one of only three Broncos with four sacks in a game, and the only one to do so twice (all records hold as of 2021). Mecklenburg is considered one of the greatest Denver Broncos of all time, according to NFL Films top 10 Denver Broncos of All Time.

In 2001, during half time of a game against the Baltimore Ravens, he and Dennis Smith were inducted into the Denver Broncos Ring of Fame. He is also in the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame and serves on the Broncos Alumni Council. Since retiring from pro football in 1994, Mecklenburg divides his time between family, motivational speaking, and his ongoing charity involvements.