Jim Brown, a lightning-fast running back and star of the Cleveland Browns in the 1950s and 1960s, has died. The Hall of Famer was 87. His wife, Monique Brown, wrote on Instagram that he “passed peacefully last night at our LA home.”
“To the world, he was an activist, an actor, and a football player. He was a devoted and loving spouse, father, and grandfather to our family. “Our hearts are broken.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell described Brown as a brilliant athlete and “one of the most dominant players to ever step on any athletic field.” In a statement, he also mentioned his involvement in the civil rights struggle, which made him a trailblazer and role model for players to get involved in social causes outside of their sport.
During his nine seasons with the Cleveland Browns, Brown established himself as one of the game’s all-time greats. However, football was only the beginning of a life full of accomplishments and scandal.
A terrific athlete.
Jim Brown said it was the most beautiful game he’d ever played. A combination of speed, quickness, and intellect. His accomplishments earned him a spot in the Hall of Fame, making him the first Black player honored.
It seems strange in comparison to his defining and violent sport, football. Brown’s exceptional athleticism, however, was demonstrated by his participation in four sports while attending Syracuse University. Track and field, basketball, lacrosse, and of course football.
He told the NFL Network in 2000 that he like how football was a constant challenge.
“In every manner,” Brown continued, “strength, mentality, and courage. It pushes you to the limit, and you either deal with it or don’t.”
Football fans agree that Jim Brown “dealt with it” as well as any running back in the game’s history.
