There are many legends that, at one time or another, suited up in the brown and orange and gave Clevelanders a lot to cheer about. Obviously, it's been a while since the Browns were considered unstoppable.
Those with short memories (I'm talking to you, Steeler fans) seem to forget this era of football. True football fans — Browns fans — remember the good ol' days when football was more about the game and less about the hype.
Even those of us who weren't alive to witness this era can appreciate it. Most Browns fans have favorite players from throughout history even if they never actually saw them play. Here's my favorite Browns from before my time.
Obviously, I'm too young to have ever seen Jim Brown play. But, his highlight reels live on for all Browns fans.
Taken in the first round of the 1956 Draft by the Browns, Jim Browns departed as the NFL record holder for both single-season (1,863 in 1963) and career rushing (12,312 yards), as well as the all-time leader in rushing touchdowns (106), total touchdowns (126), and all-purpose yards (15,549).
He was the first player ever to reach the 100-rushing-touchdowns milestone, and only a few others have done so since, despite the league's expansion to a 16-game season in 1978.
I'm definitely too young to have ever seen Lou Groza play — but the man is a legend (and he gave all us linemen dreams of being kickers).
While renowned for his kicking ability, Groza also played and started during most of his career as offensive tackle for the Browns. He was proficient at both positions, named nine times to the NFL Pro Bowl and was All-NFL tackle six times.
Groza also led the NFL in field goals in 1950, 1952-54, and 1957. In 1950, his field goal with 30 seconds left won the NFL Championship Game.
The Browns had some excellent running back in the day, but success running the ball all starts up front with the linemen.
Gene Hickerson was considered one of the best offensive linemen in SEC history at the end of his collegiate career and was drafted by the Browns in the 7th round in 1957.
During his career, Hickerson's Browns never experienced a losing season and was a starter in four NFL title games, including a 1964 NFL Championship win over the Baltimore Colts 27-0. During Gene's 10 pro seasons, the Browns featured a 1,000-yard rusher every season but one.
Go Browns!
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