Cleveland Browns running back and civil rights icon Jim Brown has died at age 87. His family confirmed the news, saying he died peacefully at his home in Los Angeles.
Brown’s wife, Monique, expressed her grief, highlighting his role as a loving husband, father and grandfather. The owners of the Cleveland Browns, Jimmy and Dee Haslam, hailed Brown as an icon for the team and the entire NFL, recognizing his status as one of the greatest players in league history.
We are heartbroken by the passing of the legendary Jim Brown.
— NFL (@NFL) May 19, 2023
One of the greatest players in NFL history, a true pioneer and activist. Jim Brown’s legacy will live on forever. 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/byBcZ0c7KG
During his career with the Browns from 1957 to 1965, Brown established himself as a dominant force in the NFL. He led the league in rushing for eight seasons and racked up an impressive 12,312 rushing yards, averaging 5.2 yards per carry. Brown’s accomplishments include three MVP awards and leading the Browns to the NFL Championship Game three times, winning the title in 1964.
Jim Brown Forever 🧡🤎♾️
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) May 19, 2023
Legend. Leader. Activist. Visionary.
It’s impossible to describe the profound love and gratitude we feel for having the opportunity to be a small piece of Jim’s incredible life and legacy. We mourn his passing, but celebrate the indelible light he… pic.twitter.com/F2rrTUnsc1
Born in 1936 on St. Simons Island, Georgia, Brown’s athletic prowess extended beyond football. He excelled in multiple sports during high school and continued his success as a multi-sport athlete at Syracuse University. His football career took off, and upon joining the Browns in 1957, he made an immediate impact under coach Paul Brown. Brown’s rookie season was marked by stellar performances, resulting in him being named the league’s MVP, a feat unmatched by any other rookie.
3x MVP
— NFL (@NFL) May 19, 2023
1964 NFL champion
9x Pro Bowler
8x first-team All-Pro
Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 1971
NFL 100 All-Time Team
Jim Brown will forever be one of the greatest to play the game we love. pic.twitter.com/JXF5dBlA38
Brown’s retirement from football at age 30 surprised many. He expressed his desire for more mental stimulation and his desire to contribute to the struggle for equality in the country. Later, he founded the Negro Industrial and Economic Union, which aimed to support black entrepreneurs and provide equal opportunities for African Americans. Brown’s commitment to social initiatives outside of his sport earned him recognition as a role model for fellow athletes, inspiring him to make a difference in his communities.
I was too young to remember Jim Brown’s playing days, but I knew his legacy. One of the greatest football players ever, he was also an actor and activist – speaking out on civil rights, and pushing other Black athletes to do the same. Our thoughts are with Jim’s wife Monique, his…
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) May 19, 2023
Although Brown’s legacy as a football icon and civil rights advocate remains strong, his life was not without controversy. He faced legal problems throughout his career, including assault and battery charges, as well as a rape charge that was later dropped. These events added complexity to his public image.
In addition to his athletic achievements, Brown ventured into acting and appeared in over 30 films. His impact on and off the field cemented his status as one of the greatest sportsmen of all time and a pioneer of social change. NFL commissioner, Roger Goodell, paid tribute to Brown, recognizing his contributions to the civil rights movement and his enduring legacy. Syracuse University, where Brown excelled, paid tribute, recognizing him as an unparalleled figure in the football world.
