John Rufus Mendenhall (born December 3, 1948 in Cullen, Louisiana) is a former American football defensive tackle in the National Football League for the New York Giants and Detroit Lions. He played college football at Grambling State University and was drafted in the third round of the 1972 NFL Draft. Played in 116 games in 9 seasons. Had his best year as a pro in 1977 with 10 sacks and 7 forced fumbles.