Wet and Muddy, Giants defensive tackle Rosey Grier sits on the New York Giants bench in the early 1960s photo. Grier had been a 3rd Round draft pick out of Penn State in 1955. He remained with New York until 1962 earning an All-Pro selection and 2 Pro Bowls. In 1963 he was traded to the Rams and stayed there until 1966.
A Chicago Bears runner gets brought down by Detroit Lions defenders Alex Karras and Roger Brown. That looks like defensive end Sam Williams.
Even though he played over 60 years ago, few NFL players have had the impact Jim Brown did. Considered the greatest running back ever by many he's the only player to average 100 yards a game for a career.
Before he was a One-Thousand-Yard Rusher with New York, Ron Johnson of Michigan was a rookie with the Cleveland Browns during the 1969 NFL season. Rushed for 478 yards and 7 touchdowns.
Some of the 1960 College All Star Team that played the 1959 NFL Champion Baltimore Colts - Don Meredith of Southern Methodist, Roger Brown of Maryland-Eastern Shore, Walter Beach of Central Michigan and Gail Cogdill of Washington State. The Colts won 32-7.
Browns and Steelers! Classic 1963 NFL! That looks like Pro Bowl linebacker Galen Fiss shooting in to bring down Pittsburgh runner John Henry Johnson. Behind Fiss is Dick Hoak.
1961 was Bobby Mitchell's last year in Cleveland. After 4 very successful seasons as a Brown he would join the Washington Redskins were he would play another 7 seasons and be named to the Fall of Fame in 1983. Here that's Ram John LoVetere closing in on him.
Marion Motely destroyed defenses for 8 seasons with the Browns. He was the career rushing leader in the AAFC with 3024 yards and then led the NFL his first season in 1950 with 810 yards.
Jim Brown carries the football against the Pittsburgh Steelers while Browns offensive tackle Monte Clark (#73) provides a block on Steelers defender John Baker (#78). The image appears to date from the 1964 season, when Brown led the NFL with 1,446 rushing yards and helped the Cleveland Browns capture the NFL Championship.
The Cleveland Browns defense gets to Steeler quarterback Ed Brown in this 1963 NFL scene as Bob Gain and Bill Glass break through to bring him down. The Steeler looking back in veteran Mike Sandusky.
In 1977, his second year as Cleveland's starting quarterback, Brian Sipe started nine games before injuries cut his season short. He posted a 5-4 record, completing 57.4% of his passes (112 of 195) for 1,233 yards with 9 touchdown passes and 14 interceptions.
In 1975 Greg Pruitt was 6th in the NFL in Rushing with 1067 yards and 7th in Total Scrimmage Yards with 1366. Here he is picking up some of those yards against Cincinnati.
The Browns in the background are Robert Jackson (#68), Barry Darrow (#63), Tom DeLeone (#54) & Chuck Hutchinson (#67) while the two Bengals look like Ron Carpenter (#70) and Sherman White (#83)
Bobby Mitchell joined the Redskins in 1962 and would lead the NFL with 72 catches and 1384 yards. Here he makes a catch over the back of up-and-coming star of the Cleveland Browns Don Fleming. Fleming would tragically die in a construction accident before the 1963 NFL season.
I believe this photo is from the 1968 NFL Championship Game — Ordell Braase and Bubba Smith put heavy pressure on Browns quarterback Bill Nelson. The Colts defense completely dominated Cleveland, holding star running back Leroy Kelly to just 28 rushing yards, with his longest run going for only 5 yards. Baltimore sacked Browns quarterbacks four times, forced three turnovers, and shut Cleveland out completely. Final score: Colts 34, Browns 0.
Run Terry Run!! Lyle Alzado gives chase to Steelers quarterback Terry Bradshaw. In 1979 Alzado joined the Browns after 8 seasons in Denver. He stayed in Cleveland until 1981, earning an All Pro selection in 1980. Terry Bradshaw would led Pittsburgh to their second consecutive Super Bowl in 1979.
I think this might be from the 1953 NFL Title game between the Lions and Browns. Hall of Famer Yale Lary attempts to run down Billy Reynolds. Reynolds is one of only 5 Browns players to wear #46. The Browns organization retired the number in 1963 when Don Fleming, a defensive back that wore #46, died in an off-season accident on a construction site.
Browns quarterback Frank Ryan gets this one away as Packers Henry Jordan and Lionel Aldridge come through.
Earl Gros of the Eagles' progress comes to an abrupt end thanks to the efforts of Cleveland Brown defensive lineman Dick Modzelewski in this mid-1960s NFL photo.
An All-Pro in 1984, Ozzie Newsome's 89 catches was second only to Art Monk's 106.
The Redskins first 1000 yards rusher. Larry Brown led the NFL in 1970 with 1125 yards. Played his entire career in Washington with 5875 yards and a total of 55 touchdowns.
Colts Mike Curtis and Jerry Logan put the stops on Browns runner Leroy Kelly. In the 1968 NFL Championship the Colts defense held Kelly to 28 rushing yards as they put a 34-0 whipping on the Browns to claim the NFL Title and advance to Super Bowl III.
The legendary “Fearsome Foursome” of the Los Angeles Rams—Merlin Olsen, Deacon Jones, Rosie Grier, and Lamar Lundy—pause together on the sideline, a rare moment of calm for one of the most dominant defensive units in NFL history. During the late 1960s and early 1970s, this Rams front four redefined defensive line play, combining speed, strength, and relentless pressure to overwhelm opposing offenses.
Deacon Jones, widely credited with coining the term “sack,” terrorized quarterbacks off the edge, while Merlin Olsen anchored the interior with consistency and intelligence. Flanked by the powerful Rosie Grier and the versatile Lamar Lundy, the group formed a near-unstoppable force that became the identity of the Rams defense during their rise as perennial contenders.
More than just stars, the Fearsome Foursome helped shape the modern pass rush, setting a standard for defensive dominance that still echoes throughout the game today.
A toast to the fans from 1980 NFL MVP Quarterback Brian Sipe
After leading his Browns to post season for the first time in 8 years in 1980, QB Brian Sipe was named league MVP. Passed for over 4100 yards, 30 touchdowns and NFL-best 91.4 Passer Rating. Was named to one and only All-Pro Team.
Late 1950s era NFL - The great Jim Brown carries against the Philadelphia Eagles defense - Defensive End Tom Scott is in the foreground.
From the Opening Game of the 1957 NFL season - Jim Katcavage of the New York Giants and Chet Hanulak of the Cleveland Brown. The Browns would win this one 6-3 on game-winning Lou Groza field goal.
The "Fearsome Foursome" of the LA Rams - Lamar Lundy, Merlin Olsen, Rosey Grier & Deacon Jones. Together from 1963 to 1966. Jones and Olsen are in the Pro Football Hall of Fame
From the 34-14 Steelers win over Cleveland in 1978 - Steeler Greats put the stop on Cleveland Browns ball carrier Cleo Miller.
Ron Johnson, former Brown turned 1000-yard rusher for the Giants carries against his former team during the early 1970s. This may be from a preseason game. That's Pro Bowler defensive end Jack Gregory who would join Johnson in New York in 1972.
The NFL's top runner in 1968, Leroy Kelly, gets some support from All-Pro Guard Gene Hickerson against Hall of Fame linebacker Dave Wilcox and the San Francisco 49er defense. Kelly had a league-high 1239 rushing yards and 16 rushing TDs in 1968. Wicox, an 11-year vet with the 49ers - had 7 Pro Bowls and 2 1st-team All Pro selections.
Rams Pro Bowler Ed Meador squares up for a heavy collision as Vikings fullback Bill Brown charges forward behind his blockers.
Jim Brown's rushing record of 12,312 yards stood until 1983, 18 years and his Rushing Touchdown record of 106 wasn't broken until 1987 - 18 years later. Here he is against Green Bay in the 1965 Title Game.
Greg Pruitt had some nice numbers in 1975 - 1067 Rushing Yards, 299 Receiving Yards and 432 Return Yards for a grand total of 1798 All-Purpose Yards. Had 10 Total Touchdowns too. That looks like quarterback Mike Phipps in the background.
A classic NFL photo of Bart Starr in the 1962 NFL Championship dropping back behind an effective Packers Offensive Line blocking against the Giants’ defense. The Packers won 16-7.
Players shown here are - Packers offense Bart Starr, Jim Taylor, Forrest Gregg, Jerry Kramer, Jim Ringo and Bob Skoronski (Fuzzy Thurston is probably in there too). The Giants front 4, Jim Katcavage, Dick Modzelewski, Rosey Grier and Andy Robustelli.
Billy Ray Smith and Ordell Braase of the Colts move in on Jim Brown. In 1965, Jim Brown was, once again, the NFL's top rusher with 1544 yards and 17 rushing touchdowns. It was his 9th and final season as he retired as the NFL's All-Time Leading Rusher with 12,312 and top Rushing Touchdown Scorer with 106. Both records would stand until broken by Walter Payton. The Rushing Yards record in 1983 and the Rushing Touchdowns in 1987.
Sam Rutigliano had been an assistant coach with the Saints, Jets, Broncos and Patriots before he took over as Head Coach for Cleveland in 1978. And while his Browns would win only 47 games, they would make the playoffs twice during his 7-year stay there. His quarterback for that time was Brian Sipe. Sipe would be named NFL MVP in 1980.
Bob Brown keeps Big John Baker away long enough for Norm Snead to get this one away. At 6' 6", 280 pounds Baker was every bit as big as Bob Brown. A 5th-round pick from North Carolina Central in 1958 by the Rams, he played 11 years in the NFL.
Bobby Layne breaks through and scores against the Cleveland Browns in the 1952 NFL Title game. The Lions would go on the win 17-7 and take the crown. The Browns seen here are Bert Rechichar (#15), Walt Michaels (#34), Tommy Thompson (#54) and Derrell Palmer (#72).
Some late 1950s classic NFL - the great Jim Brown carries against the Colts defense - The Colt all the way to the right is "Big Daddy" Gene Lipscomb.
The NFL's top runner in 1967 - Leroy Kelly of the Cleveland Browns - averaged 5.1 yards a carry on 235 carries picking up 1205 and 11 touchdowns. Here he gives Bear linebacker Doug Buffone the slip.
Some old AFL action - Raider Willie Brown thwarts the efforts of Bills (& former Raider) receiver Art Powell.
Redskins Legend Larry Brown - still ranks #3 on the Washington Franchise All-Time Rushing List with 5875 yards and #5 in Rushing Touchdowns with 35.
Van Green of the Browns has that "What Do I Do Now?" Look on his face as he grabs himself an armful of Steelers menace Jack Lambert. Green was a 6th Round draft pick from Shaw University in 1973.
Browns Pro Bowler Bill Glass has a couple of Cardinals (Bill Triplett being one of them) between him a quarterback Charley Johnson. In 1965 Johnson passed for 2439 yards and 18 Touchdowns.
Big Rosey Brown clears the way for Giants running back Joe Morrison, maybe 1964 - Brown's 12th of a 13 year career.
Colts’ Tom Matte finds a bit of running room against a pack of Rams in the 1963 finale. The hard-running halfback piled up 130 rushing yards and two scores, including the clincher on a 14-yard strike from Johnny Unitas. Closing in, left to right, are Mike Henry, Lindon Crow, and ex-Giants Rosey Grier and Cliff Livingston.
Congratulations are in order! Browns quarterback Bill Nelsen extends a hand to Leroy Kelly following a touchdown. All in all Kelly scored 90 Regular Season touchdowns and 3 Post Season. That's still #2 on the Browns franchise list.
The Detroit Lions' "Fearsome Foursome" defensive line of the early 1960s stands as one of the NFL's most dominant yet underappreciated units. This legendary quartet - Bill Glass (#53), Roger Brown (#76), Alex Karras (#71), and Darris McCord (#78) - poses here with defensive line coach Les Bingaman, capturing a moment when Detroit's defense struck fear into opposing quarterbacks across the league. While the "Fearsome Foursome" moniker is often associated with other teams, these Lions earned the name through relentless pressure and suffocating run defense that made Detroit one of the era's premier defensive squads. Though Glass would be replaced by Sam Williams in 1962, the Lions' defensive excellence continued, cementing this group's legacy as one of the most formidable front fours in franchise history.
From Sports magazine printed during the 1966 off-season. The Vikings up-coming schedule shown as Packers Ray Nitschke and Willie Wood can't stop Bill Brown from scoring. Fran Tarkenton signals the touchdown.
Joe Kapp in the clutches of a Rams defender - looks like Jack Pardee. Big Roger Brown, #78 is nearby. Is this from that great 1969 playoff game between the Rams and Vikings?
Some early 1960s NFL action between Green Bay and Cleveland - Jim Brown carries into line as Willie Davis plays off a block to meet him.
The Great Jim Brown carries against the Steelers defense in the 1963 NFL Hall of Fame Game. Started in 1962, the traditional preseason game starts the upcoming NFL season. The Steelers won this 16-7. Shown here along with Jim Brown are - Steelers veterans John Baker, #78 and #50 John Reger as well a youngster Myron Pottios, #66. The Brown's #66, Gene Hickerson can be seen as well.
Alex Karras shares his thoughts on the state of the NFL with Roger Brown, around the late 1960s.
The caption is obviously incorrect.
Redskin Larry Brown gets a little tangled up with Jim Files and the New York Giants defense. In 1973 Brown led the NFL in Total Touchdowns scored with 14.
Cowboy linebacker Lee Roy Jordan moves in to stop Browns runner Leroy Kelly during the 1969 NFL Playoff game between Dallas and Cleveland. Kelly rushed for 66 yards and a touchdown in the 38-14 Browns victory.
One of the top running backs of the 1970s NFL decade - The Washington Redskins Larry Brown. In 8 seasons with Washington he ended up with 8360 All-Purpose Yards and 55 Total Touchdowns scored.
Oakland Raiders quarterback Daryle Lamonica (#3) releases a pass just as Green Bay Packer defensive lineman Robert Brown (#78) launches himself into the air in an attempt to block it. In 1972 Lamonica was the Raiders top passer with 281 completions, 1998 yards and 18 touchdowns.
Tight End Johnny Brewer gets between Browns runner Jim Brown and Redskins Pro Bowler Rod Breedlove, sometime during the early 1960s NFL.
Johnny Brewer started off as a defensive end in 1961 with the Browns. Here he is rushing into the 49ers backfield during a preseason game in 1961. The 49er is JW Lockett.
Some early 1960s decade Action - The Great Jim Brown gets behind the blocking of Tight End Johnny Brewer as Brewer takes on Eagles linebacker Maxie Baughan. That's Eagles Defensive End Bobby Richards behind Brown.
Vikings and Browns - mid 1960s NFL. Frank Ryan dropping back as the play starts. That's Browns Tight End Johnny Brewer at the right. The Viking linebacker in the foreground is Bill Jobko.
It looks like trouble for the Colts Earl Morrall as Cleveland lineman Jim Kanicki and Walter Johnson appear to have the upper hand against his offensive line of Glenn Ressler (#62), Dan Sullivan (#71) & Dick Szymanski (#52) in 1968. This picture is reportedly from the Colts sole regular-season loss of that year - a 30-20 upset by the Browns.
Some 1968 Falcons and Browns. Claude Humphrey goes up high while Bill Nelson gets the pass away to flanker Eppie Barney.
Jim Brown in action against the newly formed Dallas Cowboys in 1960. That's Tom Franckhauser of Purdue diving in stop him and Gene Hickerson, #66 is in the background.
Frank Ryan and Leroy Kelly shown on a program from a Cardinals-Browns game in 1968. Fullback Ernie Green can be seen in the right-foreground. The Cardinals won 27-16.
A picture from a game program in 1965 (a game against the Colts). Deacon Jones was a 14th-round draft pick out of Mississippi Valley State in 1961. Rosey Grier was with the Giants from 1955-1962 and joined LA in 1963. Both were a big part of the Rams defense until 1966.
The Great Jim Brown. Became the NFL's top All-Time Runner in 1964 when he surpassed Joe Perry with 10,768 rushing yards. When he retired in 1965 his career rushing total was 12,312. That remained the most All-Time mark until Walter Payton's 13,309 in 1984.
Giants Jim Katcavage lunges at Browns great Bobby Mitchell in the late 50s, early 1960s action.
Giants Great Roosevelt Brown was a 27th-round draft pick in 1953. Played 13 seasons and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1975.
Part of the Cleveland Browns offense - Offensive lineman John Wooten, Gene Hickerson and Monte Clark lead the way for the great Jim Brown during the early 1960's. Clark was with Cleveland from 1963 to 1969, Wooten from 1959 to 1967 and Gene Hickerson manned the Browns line for 15 seasons - 202 games from 1958 to 1973.
Jim Brown in the latter end of his 9-year career.
Roger Brown of The University of Maryland Eastern Shore was a 4th round draft pick of Detroit (he was also chosen by the Titans of the AFL) in 1960. His career spanned 10 seasons, 7 in Detroit and 3 in Los Angeles. Made 6 Pro teams and 2 All Pro selections.
With guard Gerry Mullins leading, Steelers Franco Harris carries against the Cleveland Browns in early 1970s action. In 1972 the Steelers posted the best record in the AFC Central with 11 wins and Cleveland was right behind with 10. Both teams made the playoffs and both teams lost to the Dolphins. We think the Browns here are Bob Briggs (#84), Billy Andrews (#52).
Forrest Gregg can only look on hopelessly as his quarterback Bart Starr is surrounded by a pack of Lions. Alex Karras, Roger Brown and Darris McCord close in on Starr during the "Thanksgiving Day Massacre" of 1962 when the Lions handed the Packers their sole defeat of the season - a 26-14 on Thanksgiving Day. The Lions sacked Starr 8 times. Roger is reported as saying "I guess I got to know Bart pretty well out there today" after the game.
Giants Hall of Fame lineman Rosey Brown squares off against Vikings great Jim Marshall around 1965. Brown started off his 13-year NFL career as a 27th-round draft selection by the Giants out of Morgan State in 1956. #68 is lineman Dave O'Brien.
Jim Brown gets past the line of scrimmage in the 1964 NFL Championship game against the Colts. Underdog Cleveland shocked the powerhouse Colts to the tune of a 27-0 beating as Brown rushed for 114 yards as the Browns claimed they're first NFL Title in 9 seasons. Colt #36 is linebacker Bill Pellington. Pellington reportedly had a reputation of being one of the league's roughest, meanest, dirtiest players of that time.
Wild Guy Tim Rossovich and Redskin Larry Brown - probably 1970. Not sure if Larry Brown is scoring or getting cornered on the backfield or endzone - anyone know, let me know.
Taking a handoff from quarterback Frank Ryan the Great Jim Brown carries into the Packers defense. Browns receiver Gary Collins, #86 can be seen in the back.
Early 1960s Giants and Eagles - Rosey Grier and Harland Svare team up to stop an Eagles runner, we think, in 1960. Other if this is 1960 that would make Eagle #65 Jerry Huth and the giant in the background Cliff Livingston.
Jim Brown in action against the Redskins and that looks like Andy Stynchula making a lunge at him. In 1963 Brown once again was the league's top rusher setting a new record of 1863 yards.
Giants great Jim Katcavage puts Browns QB Milt Plum under some heat. The picture could be from the 48-7 Giants win over Cleveland in December of 1959.
Early 1960s NFL showdown between the Packers and Giants as the Golden Boy, Paul Hornung gets upfield against the Giants defense. Giants id'd in the picture- #76, Rosey Grier - Jim Katcavage, #75 and #31, Bill Winter. The other Packers are Forrest Gregg on the ground and & Jim Ringo.
Pro Bowler Greg Pruitt of the Browns slips past Bengals lineman Ron Carpenter. Pruitt had an even 1000 yards rushing in 1976 on 209 attempts - that's a 4.8 YPC average.
Craig Morton takes a shot from Browns lineman Jack Gregory during the 1970 NFL season.
Redskins runner Larry Brown comes face to face with Dolphins defensive tackle Manny Fernandez.
Jim Brown gets behind Ernie Green as he works his way through the St. Louis Cardinals defense in 1965. Cardinal #52 is Dale Meinert and #34 is Bill Koman.
Possibly from the 1965 NFL Championship game between The Packers and Browns. Cleveland Browns quarterback sets up to throw with Jim Brown at his side. With an 11-3 record in 1965, the Browns captured the NFL East Title to meet the Green Bay Packers in the NFL Championship..
From the Robert Riger Photo Collection - Roosevelt Brown, Gene Filipski & Don Chandler on the 1956 New York Giants Sidelines. The Giants were the NFL Champs in 1956 after defeating the Bears 47-7 in the Title Game.
Browns quarterback Frank Ryan gets forced out of the pocket by Big Roger Brown of the Rams in this late 1960s NFL action. #65 is Browns lineman John DeMaire and if you look to the left you'll catch Roman Gabriel on the sideline.
Browns and Packers. Hall of Fame Defensive End Willie Davis puts the heat on Cleveland Browns quarterback Fran Ryan. Looks like Leroy Kelley, #44 in the background.
Got this out of a Sports Mag previewing the 1966 NFL season. Redskin Paul Krause grabs a Cleveland Browns pass in the endzone intended for Jim Brown around 1965. As an added bonus that's the Washington Redskins 1966 season schedule in the insert - note the Bye Week of December 4.
Big Rosey Brown leads the way through the Washington Redskins defense as Frank Gifford dashes through. 1957 was a busy year for Gifford. He was the Giants leading rusher and receiver he made the All Pro Team and the Pro Bowl. #33 behind Gifford is Mel Triplett.
One of Old School Football Classical on-field rivalries. Hall of Famers Jim Brown and Sam Huff. From the Giants 33-6 win over the Browns in 1963, this time Huff looks like he's got the better of. Brown
Filling in for a player such as the great Jim Brown is no easy task, but Leroy Kelly of Morgan State managed to do a pretty good job. When he left the NFL in 1975 he was the NFL's #5 All Time Leading Rusher with 7274 yards and his 74 touchdowns on the ground were #3.
The Redskins Larry Brown rushed for 1216 yards and 8 touchdowns in 1972 to earn the NFL's Most Valuable Player award that year. Also had the league's most Yards from Scrimmage with 1689.
Opening day of the 1963 NFL season - Giants and Colts. Giants quarterback YA Tittle gets protection as the Colts defense swarms all around. Rosey Brown battles Ordell Braase in the foreground while Jack Stroud keeps Gino Marchetti away. Tittle threw 3 touchdowns this day in a 37-28 win.
The Great Jim Brown - His 106 rushing touchdowns still ranks #6 on the NFL All Time List and his 126 Total Touchdowns is #10.
An aging George Blanda sets up to pass behind the blocking of George Buehler (#64) & Bob Brown (#76) while Steelers lineman Joe Greene (#75) and LC Greenwood (#68) apply pressure. This picture is from the early 1970s - we think 1972. Blanda was 45 years old and wouldn't retire for another 3 seasons.
Alex Karras leads the Detroit Lions defense in stopping a Chicago Bears runner as Karras bulldogs the ball carrier to the ground. The other Lions here look like #88, Sam Williams and #76 Roger Brown.
When the great Jim Brown retired in 1965 Leroy Kelly of Morgan State filled the role as best as anyone could - led the league twice in rushing making 1st Team All Pro team 4 times. Still ranks #2 behind Brown as the Cleveland franchise All Time rusher. Here he gets a block from Milt Morin against Doug Buffone and the Chicago Bears - #85 is Willie Holman from South Carolina.
Roger Brown of the Rams about to bring down Bart Starr of the Packers - we think this picture is from 1968.
The only NFL player to average over 100 yards a game in his career. In 118 games he rushed for 12,312 - that's 104.3 per game.
Jim Brown takes a handoff from quarterback Milt Plum and tries the Pittsburgh Steelers defensive line as Hall of Famer Mike McCormack (#74) clears the way. We think this is from the October of 1960 game where Plum threw for 308 yards in a 28-20 Browns win. The Steelers at the far-left look like Pro Bowler Ernie Stautner and linebacker Mike Henry (#37) and the other Cleveland player in the Foreground could be #54, All Pro Jim Ray Smith.
Bob Brown and Jim Skaggs get out in front as Izzy Lang gets ready to turn upfield. Eagles quarterback Norm Snead can be seen in the background.
The Great Jim Brown runs through the Redskins defense in the early 1960s.
Vikings quarterback Joe Kapp hurdles over teammate Bill Brown (among others) in the 1969 Western Conference game against the Rams. Kapp would score the go-ahead TD on a 2-yard rollout in the 4th quarter. Ram #19 is cornerback Jim Nettles
49ers quarterback John Brodie is brought by an intense LA Rams rush brought on by Roger Brown and Diron Talbert.
Browns offense in 1971. Leroy Kelly, the AFC's #4 leading rusher that year, gets behind the blocking of fullback Bo Scott and guard Gene Hickerson. In 1971 Hickerson was a 14-year NFL veteran and didn't retire till 1973.
Jim Brown blasts up the middle and leaves the Giants defense behind on a 65-yard score on the Brown's first play from scrimmage here in the final game of the 1958 season. Jim Brown ended up with 148 yards in this contest. The Giants would come back to win and to force a 1-game "playoff" game a week later to decide 1st place of the 1958 NFL Eastern Conference. The Giants would win that one too.
This image by renown sports photographer Rob Riger of NFL legend Jim Brown perfectly display Riger's photography talents to capture the moment. In 44 years Rob Riger has been credited with over 90,000 pictures.
Larry Brown slips through the St Louis Cardinals defense in 1972. That year Brown was the NFC's top rusher with 1216 yards.
The Great Jim Brown gets going behind the blocking of Brown's veteran lineman Monte Clark.
Browns QB Otto Graham gives a defender the Ol' Stiff Arm as he gets outside. Graham enjoyed one of the most successful careers ever by a professional athlete. In a 10-year career with the Browns he played in Post Season play every season claiming a league title 7 times - and that was in 2 different leagues.
Packer Boyd Dowler holds on the ball despite the efforts of Browns defenders Bernie Parrish (#30) & Larry Benz (#23) here in the 1965 NLF Championship game. Dowler had 5 catches in the Packer's win.
Cleveland Browns runner Bobby Mitchell steps into a breach of the Cardinals defense with Browns lineman Jim Ray Smith (#64) and Dick Schafrath (#77) in the lead. From 1961 word is this play went for a 56-yard Browns score.
Members of the Chicago Bears defense in the mid-1960s. Dick Butkus, Stan Jones and Rosey Taylor. Stan Jones, it should be noted, had been in the league 10+ years by this time and previously been an All Pro as an offensive lineman but now was playing - and playing at a high-level, at Defensive Tackle.
Cleveland Browns funner Jim Brown cools off with a drink on the sideline. This picture is obviously pre-COVID.
Browns rookie Bo Scott does hid best to deter the rush of Vikings Hall of Fame defensive end Carl Eller as Bill Nelson sets up to pass.
The 1959 Title game between the Giants and Colts as Johnny Unitas hands off the fullback Billy Pricer with Colts blockers Jim Parker, Art Spinney and Buzz Nutter in front. It appears only Giant Rosey Grier is on hand to defend.
Unitas, the league's top passer in 1959, had an excellent day leading his Colts to a win passing for 264 yards and 2 touchdowns while rushing for another. Final score Colts 31 Giants 16.
The Giants Dick Lynch holds on to Cleveland runner Jim Brown here in 1963. The Browns would win this one 35-24 as Brown would rush for 123 yards and 3 touchdowns. Lynch did have a 47-yard pick six though. And #13 is Browns QB Frank Ryan.
The Eagles 1st round pick in 1964 Bob Brown was an All Pro 3 of the 5 seasons he was in Philadelphia.
Browns quarterback Frank Ryan sets up to pass behind the blocking of lineman John Wooten.
Browns quarterback Frank Ryan just gets the pass off underthe rush of Saints lineman Mike Tilleman in 1967
One of the original powerbacks of the NFL - Marion Motely. In 9 NFL seasons and over 800 carries he had a lifetime Yards-Per-Carry of 5.7.
Packer fullback Jim Taylor dashes into a mud-covered hole in the Cleveland Browns defense during the 1965 NFL Title game. Packer lineman on the left are Fuzzy Thurston (#63) and Ken Bowman (#57). The Brown defender engaged with Bowman looks like Middle Linebacker Vince Costello while the other could be Dick Modzelewski. Bart Starr is to the far right. Taylor rushed for 96 yards as the Packers would come out on top 23-12.
Colts runner Alan Ameche hits the line of scrimmage to score during the 1958 NFL Title game against the Giants. Lots of great names here - Rosey Grier (#76) and Jim Parker (#77) battle to the far left as Buzz Nutter (#50) holds off Sam Huff (#70). Rosey Brown (#79) in the center, normally on offense looks like he's on the Giant's goal-line defense. Hall of Famer Emlen Tunnell (#45) can be seen in the back beyond Ameche. Unitas (#19) is there of course and behind him is linebacker Cliff Livingston (#89).
Giants safety Jim Patton tries to bring down Cleveland runner Jim Brown. A photo from sports photographer Robert Riger, we think it's from 1965. If we are correct that would make #83 in the background Johnny Brewer, playing tight end and #28 would be former Olympic Gold Medalist rookie Henry Carr.
Gene Hickerson clears the way for Leroy Kelly in 1968. 1968 was Kelly's 3rd straight 1,000-plus yard season. he was the NFL's rushing leader in 1966 and 1967 in both yards and touchdowns.
The Rams Roger Brown applies pressure to Falcons quarterback Bob Berry. Brown played the last 3 years of his career , 1967 to 1969 with Los Angeles. You can see linebacker Jack Pardee (#32) behind Brown.
The Detroit Lions defense stops the Bears offense - Lions seen here are Darris McCord (#76), Night Train Lane (#81) and Roger Brown (#78).
As Lions runner Mel Farr carries into the Packers Defense Robert Brown (#78) & Lee Roy Caffey (#60) make haste to close in. As a rookie in 1967, Farr was #7 in the league with 1177 yards from scrimmage.
There's not a whole lot Browns quarterback Paul McDonald
can do as Raiders linebacker Ted Hendricks descends upon him.
Hall of Famer Bob Brown left Philadelphia after 5 seasons there and joined Los Angeles for 2 seasons making the NFL All Pro team both years.
Bobby Mitchell, recently aquired by the Washington Redskins, makes a catch against his former team, Cleveland in 1962. Mitchell had a 50-yard score in this game as the Redskins triumphed by a score of 17-16. #44 for Cleveland is cornerback Jim Shofner.
They do stop him, but Brady Keys & Bill Butler of the Pittsburgh Steelers look they are the ones coming out worse in this collision with Cleveland great Jim Brown.
Linebacker Joe Schmidt and defensive lineman Roger Brown led the Detroit Lions defense of the early 1960s onto the field.
Bobby Mitchell of the Cleveland Browns makes a finger-tip touchdown catch against Redskins Jim Kerr and Joe Krakoski. Mitchell would finish the season with a total of 10 scores in 1961 - his last season as a Brown.
YA Tittle of the New York Giants gets going with Jim Houston of the Browns giving chase. In 1963, at age 37, Tittle had a career season completing 60% of his passes for 3145 yards - the first Giant quarterback to pass for over 3,000 yards. His league-high 36 touchdown passes are still a record in the New York franchise book.
It takes 3 Giants to stop the great Jim Brown as he carries against New York here in this 1960s NFL action. Brown #60 is long-time offensive lineman John Wooten. Bonus points if you can name the Giants here. Thanks to the Robert Riger Living Trust & Archive for sharing this image.
Top Browns receiver with 662 catches - Hall of Fame Tight End played from 1978 to 1990.
Redskins Running Back Larry Brown - his 5875 rushing yards is still #3 in the Washington All Time Rushing Yards List, his 35 rushing touchdowns is 5th.
Giants runner Frank Gifford gets behind lineman Darrell Dess here in this early 1960s action against the Browns. Dess played in the NFL a total of 13 years - 10 in New York. Browns #30 is Bernie Parrish and #46 is Don Fleming.
Photo Credit - Rob Rigor
Larry Brown gives excellent blocking against the 49ers Skip Vanderbundt while Redskins QB Billy Kilmer lets it fly - no doubt a picture perfect pass.
Browns great Jim Brown gets past Giants Hall of Fame linebacker Sam Huff.
With Charlie Harrawy leading, Washington Redskin Larry Brown slips through a hole in the New York defense. The Giant defenders here are lineman Larry Jacobson (#75) & linebacker Ron Hornsby (#67).
Redskins defender Paul Krause makes an interception against Cleveland's Jim Brown in 1965. Krause still holds the NFL's All Time Interception record of 81.
Old School NFL at it's best - Packers & Lions in 1961 - Roger Brown leads the Lions defense in stopping Paul Hornung as Hornung loses the ball. Lots of great names here - From left to right - Wayne Walker (#55), Yale Lary (#28), Joe Schmidt (#56), Night Train Lane (#81), Carl Brettschneider (#57), Bob Skoronski (#76 - Packers), Roger Brown (#76 - Lions, Paul Hornung (#5), Jim Ringo (#51), Darris McCord (#78)
Giants quarterback YA Tittle gets the pass off under pressure. In 1963 Tittle would lead New York to an NFL Eastern Division Title and a league Title Game appearance. It was the last post season game the Giants would attend until 1981 - 18 years later. #79 is Hall of Famer Rosey Brown.
From the 1962 NFL Title Game between the Packers and the Giants. Bart Starr turns to hand off the running back Paul Hornung. 3 Jerry Kramer field goals proved to be the difference as the Packers took the title 16-7. Giant #76 is Rosey Grier and Packer #63 is Fuzzy Thurston.
Rams and Colts - 1964. Rosey Grier (#76) moves in to stop fullback Jerry Hill (#45) as Hill takes a handoff from quarterback Johnny Unitas (#19). Colt #52 is center Dick Szymanski and the Ram to the far right, #89 is linebacker Cliff Livingston.
Big pile-up of Browns and Vikings with Leroy Kelly (#44) & Alan Page (#88) on the top. Browns quarterback Frank Ryan watches from the back and center Fred Hoaglin (#54) is underneath.
1973 Minnesota Vikngs - Veteran fullback Bill Brown leads the way for rookie Chuck Foreman. On the Vikings All Time Leading Rushing list Brown is #5 with 5757 yards and Foreman is #4 with 5887.
From the opening round of the 1968 NFL playoffs - Browns runner Leroy Kelly gives Cowboy cornerback Cornell Green the slip in route to a 35-yard TD. It was Kelly's 2nd score as Cleveland downed Dallas 31-20.
Jim Brown gets set to turn it upfield against the Giants. Arguably the top runner of his day he led the league 8 of the 9 seasons he played. The Giant, #31, could be rookie linebacker Bill Winter from St. Olaf College.
Hall of Famers Rosey Brown and YA Tittle take a knee on the Giant's sideline probably sometime around 1964. Both legends were at the end of their long and distinguished careers. Tittle had a total of 17 years in the NFL and Brown had 13.
In 1968 Browns receiver Paul Warfield had a big year with 50 catches with 1067 yards, a 21.3 Yards-per-Catch and 12 touchdowns. Here he makes a catch against the Giants - Giant #56 is linebacker Tommy Crutcher and #31 is Charlie Haraway.
Browns great Marion Motely collides with a Ram. As of the 2023 NFL season, Motely still ranks #7 on the Browns All-Time Leading Rushing list.
Giants-Redskins around 1974. Giants linebacker Brad Van Pelt led the New York Giants defense in stopping Redskins runner Larry Brown. Other players here are Giant defenders Pete Athas (#45) & Eldridge Small (#18) with Redskin tight end Alvin Reed (#88).
Vikings runner Bill Brown tries to shake off Bears linebacker Larry Morris as Morris holds onto Browns ankle. Kicker/Linebacker Roger LeClerc (#83) moves over to assist.
Bill Begery and company put the stop on Cleveland runner Ken Brown in 1973. Other Bengals shown are Safety Tommy Casanova (#37), linebacker Doug Adams (#52) & lineman Steve Chomyszak (#79). Al Beauchamp (#58) is the background.
Another image of that great NY Giants defense of the early 1960s - here Rosey Grier, Sam Huff & Dick Modzelewski converge on Redskins QB Ralph Guglielmi. We think Redskin #65 is guard Vince Promuto.
This Minneapolis Tribune news clipping shows Bill Brown trying to hurdle over Roosevelt Taylor in this early 1960s clash between the Bears & Vikings. #20 is Tommy Mason and Earl Leggett is #71. That could be Doug Atkins behind Leggett.
Browns quarterback needs some fancy footwork to get away from Eagles Don Burroughs (#45), Chuck Weber (#51). Plum was the Browns starter in 1961 and had a good year. Leading the Browns to 7 victories he had 2416 passing yards and 18 touchdown passes. His 58.6% Completion Percentage was best in the league too.
The Packers Robert Brown (#78) won't get to Rams Quarterback Roman Gabriel (#18) as he gets this pass off in the 1967 Rams-Packers showdown late in the season. Roman had a big game with 3 touchdown passes as the Rams outlasted the Pack in a 27-24 win keeping their playoff hopes for 1967 alive.
It takes 3 Redskins to bring down the great Jim Brown in this Cleveland-Washington clash in 1962. 1962 was the only year that Jim Brown did not lead the league in rushing during his 9-year NFL career.
Half of the Fearsome Foursome of the LA Rams defense of the mid-1960s - Rosey Grier (#76) & Merlin Olsen (#74). Olsen was a 1st round pick out of Utah state in 1962 and Grier joined the Rams in 1963 after 7 seasons in New York. They were together until 1966.
Packers great Jim Taylor runs past Giants defensive tackle Rosey Grier (#76) and over (we think) cornerback Dick Lynch. The picture is from the 1962 Giants-Packers NFL Title game. Taylor was the games leading ground gainer with 85 yards and a touchdown as Green Bay came out on top 16-7.
The Great Bobby Mitchell leaves defenders flailing on the ground as he hurdles over them. We think this picture is from 1961 against the Redskins and #62 may be former Ram lineman Duane Putnam.
Browns Hall of Famers in action against the Colts - #66, Gene Hickerson played 15 years in the NFL, all for the Browns and #32, Jim Brown led the NFL in rushing 8 times in his 9-year career. His record of 126 touchdowns stood for until Jerry Rice broke it in 1994.
With Browns defenders Bill Glass (#80) and Bob Gain (#79) in the backfield Lions quarterback Earl Morrall stands tall and gets the pass off in this 1963 Browns-Lions action. Morrall was the Lions top passer that season with 10 starts, 2621 passing yards and 24 touchdowns.
The Lion at Morrall's feet could be lineman John Gonzaga (#79).
Viking-Browns, we think from around 1965 - Cleveland Pro Bowler Bill Glass makes haste to reach Vikings quarterback Fran Tarkenton before he can get rid of the ball.
A 27th round draft pick from little Morgan State Rosey Brown made the Giants starting lineup as a rookie in 1953 and finished with a 13-year Hall of fame that included 6 All Pro Team selections. Named the the 1950s All Decade Team and the NFL's 75th & 100th Anniversary Teams as well.
Browns Hall of Fame runner Leroy Kelly gets behind offensive lineman John Demarie after taking a handoff from quarterback Bill Nelsen.
On a team that has been blessed with some of the greatest ball carriers in Pro Football History, Greg Pruitt ranks #5 among all Cleveland Browns runners with 5496 yards rushing.
Redskins great Larry Brown gains yardage against the Dolphins defense in Super Bowl VII. Brown had 72 yards on teh ground and another 26 receiving in the Redskin loss.
Two big reasons for the success of the Giants defense in the late 1950s and early 1960s - linebacker Sam Huff (#70) and defensive tackle Rosey Grier (#76).
Raider defender Willie Brown had only 1 interception during the 1976 playoffs but it was a big one. His 75-yard TD return of Fran Tarkenton in the 4th quarter of Super Bowl XI killed any hopes of a Viking comeback.
Rookie Jim Brown from Syracuse carries against the San Francisco 49ers defense in 1957. Brown would led the NFL in rushing 8 of the next 9 seasons. Pictured above with Brown are fellow teammates tackle Mike McCormack (#74) & flanker Ray Renfro (#26). We think 49er #76 is defensive tackle John Gonzaga.
Giants Hall of Famer Frank Gifford (#16) hits a big hole made in the Cleveland Browns defense.
Falcons 1-man wrecking crew Tommy Nobis steps up and puts the stop on Vikings fullback Bill Brown.
Larry Brown, rookie out of Kansas State, carries against the Giants in 1969. The Giant's #89 in the background is rookie Fred Dryer from San Diego State.
The Browns Greg Pruitt (#34) has a step on the Patriots Ron Bolton (#27) as he breaks into the open field. Pruitt was the Browns leading rusher in 1974 as well the leading kick returner. He was the league's #4 leading All Purpose Yardage gainer as well.
And with a most intentional gaze Steelers linebacker Jack Lambert fixes his attention upon Browns quarterback Brian Sipe.
Old school NFL collision between Bill Brown (#30) and Jerry Logan (#20).
The Vikings score first in the 1969 NFL Championship with quarterback Joe Kapp turning a broken play into a 7-yard touchdown as he drags Cleveland Brown defenders Ron Snidow (#88), Walter Johnson (#71) and Mike Howell (#34) into the endzone with him.
Bears linebacker Doug Buffone (#55) holds on for dear life in an attempt to trip up Browns runner Leroy Kelly (#44). The story goes that Kelly broke free and scored.
Willie Davis (#87) beats the Brown's O-Line to enough to get a hand on Browns quarterback Bill Nelsen (#16) and effect the play. In 1968 Davis unofficially led the Packers with 9 sacks.
Raiders quarterback Daryle Lamonica (#3) gets the pass off under pressure from Browns lineman Turkey Jones (#80).
Giants Hall of Famer Rosey Brown as he appeared in 1964 exhibition game program. 1964 was Brown's 12th of 13 seasons in the NFL.
Franks Gifford (#16) gets a big block from Roosevelt Brown (#79) as he carries outside against the Cleveland Browns. In 1959 Gifford made his last of 8 NFL All Pro Teams in his career when he tallied 1308 yards from scrimmage averaging 119 yards rushing and receiving a game.
Along with Rosey Brown and Frank Gifford we see Giants teammates Darrell Dess (#62) & Charley Connerly (#42) with Bob Gain (#79) and defensive back Jim Shofner (#44) on the receiving end of Brown's takedown.
Browns great in the early 1960s carries against the Washington Redskins - we think #41 is Redskins defensive back Jim Steffen.
Cardinals legend Larry Wilson gets a pick against the Browns Gary Collins. In 1966 Wilson was the NFL's top ball hawk with 10 picks - 2 of those were returned for TDs.
Sports artist and photographer Rob Riger illustrates a glimpse of the action that was in the games between the New York Giants and Cleveland Browns when Hall of Famers Jim Brown (#32) and Sam Huff (#70) clashed.
Dolphins fullback Larry Csonka (#39) blasts over guard Bob Kuchenberg (#67) and past linebacker Willie Lanier (#63) to score on a 1-yard plunge during the 2nd quarter of the 1971 AFC Divisional Playoff round against the Kansas City Chiefs. Dolphins Quarterback Bob Griese (#12) stands in background and helps him with a little mental push. Also noted here are Chiefs lineman Arron Brown (#87) and veteran lineman Bob DeMarco (#61).
A Classic confrontation of the 1960s NFL - Green Bay Packer Greats Ken Bowman (#57) & Jerry Kramer (#64) battle against Detroit Lion legends Alex Karras (#71) & Roger Brown (#76).
From around 1965 - Cleveland Browns Pro Bowl defensive end Bill Glass gets through to put some pressure on Washington Redskins quarterback Sonny Jurgensen. Redskin #74 looks like Jim Snowden.
"Old Man Willie" Brown is shown here in 1978 with linebacker Monte Johnson. 1978 was Willie Brown's 16th and final year in the NFL. In 1984 he was inducted into the Hall of Fame.
Cleveland's Hall of Fame fullback Jim Brown on the cover of the 1963 issue of Pro Football Illustrated. Brown would have a phenomenal season leading the NFL in every rushing category with 291 carries, 1863 yards, 6.4 YPC and 12 rushing touchdowns. The 1863 yards were a new NFL Rushing record that would stand 10 years.
Raiders DB Willie Brown nabs a Terry Bradshaw pass in the 3rd quarter of the 1973 AFC playoffs. He returned this pick 54 yards for a score to give Oakland a 23-7 lead.
It takes 3 Giants to stop Cleveland's Jim Brown here in this Giants-Browns action in 1961. Pictured from left to right are Sam Huff (#70), Jim Patton (#20), Jim Brown (#32) & Dick Lynch (#22)
Browns runner Greg Pruitt runs through the Bengals defense. Longtime Bengals linbacker Jim LeClaire (#55) can seen in teh background.
1964 NFL Rookie of the Year Charley Taylor squares up with Cleveland Browns veteran defender Galen Fiss. Taylor captured the ROY award rushing for 755 yards while coming up with 53 catches and 814 more yards receiving. He scored a total of 10 touchdowns.
Colts rookie quarterback Bert Jones gets a little tug on his facemask from Browns defensive lineman Nick Roman in 1973
In 1961 had 64 catches and a league-high 1164 yards and 13 touchdown catches.
Jim Brown (#32) and Bobby Mitchell (#49) watch from the sidelines.
Colts field general Johnny Unitas launches a pass while under pressure from that outstanding Rams defense of the late 1960s. How many of these players can you name?
The Bears 2nd round pick of 1961 - All-Big 10 fullback from Illinois Bill Brown. While his rookie season wasn't that remarkable, he was traded to the Vikings in 1962 (for a 4th round draft pick) where he would stay until 1974 and leave as the Vikings All Time Leading Franchise rusher. George Halas reportedly admitted it was the worst trade he ever made.
Here comes Bill Brown (#30)! The Vikings fullback has a full head of steam as he blasts past Bears defenders Doug Atkins (#81), Ed O' Bradovich (#87) & Dave Whitsell (#23). In 1966 Bill Brown was the NFL's #4 leading rusher with 829 yards.
Lions greats Roger Brown (#76) and Alex Karras (#71) break through the line to stop Packers QB Bart Starr (#15) before he can do anything. In the background linebacker Joe Schmidt (#56) & center Ken Bowmen (#57) are locked in contest.
Vikings linebacker Roy Winston stops Browns running back Leroy Kelly in the 1969 game. The Vikings in route to a Super Bowl appearance handed Cleveland a 51-3 obliteration.
Jimmy Patton (#20) holds on to Browns runner Jimmy Brown (#32) as Brown carries against the Giants. Defensive lineman Dick Modzelewski (#77) moves in to assist.
Hall of Famer Willie Davis makes an open field tackle in Super Bowl I.
Steelers Quarterback Terry Bradshaw (#12) goes over the goal-line on this 1-yard plunge against the Browns in 1971.
Houston Oilers great Earl Campbell (#34) carries against Eddie Edwards (#73) and Ross Browner (#79) of the Bengals.
The Oilers 1st round pick of 1978 Campbell was the NFL's Rookie of the Year as well as league's MVP both 1978 and 1979.
In a photo from his days at Penn State - played 7 seasons with the Giants then 4 with the Rams. All Pro in 1956 when the Giants won an NFL title.
Rams defender Jesse Whittenton (#44) unsuccessfully tries to stop rookie Jim Brown (#32) from reaching the endzone in this 1957 Rams-Browns clash. Brown set an NFL rushing record that day with 237 yards. He tied that record again in 1961 against the Eagles. It wasn't until 1971 that it would be broken.
The Cowboys Chuck Howley (#54) & Leroy Kelly of the Brown during the 1972 NFL Pro Bowl Game - Played in January it featured the league's best players of the 1971 season. For both players it was their 6th and final appearance in a Pro Bowl game.
2 of the members of the Rams original Fearsome Foursome defense of the early 1960s. Rosey Grier (#76) & Merlin Olsen (#74). Grier was with the Rams from 1963 to 1966. Olsen was in Los Angeles his entire 15-year NFL career.
Here it Comes! Cardinals veteran defender Brady Keys (#29) and Browns receiver Paul; Warfield (#42) get ready to battle for the ball in the 1968 NFL contest. In the end it was a 27-21 Cardinals win.
Under a heavy Giants rush Browns quarterback Frank Ryan (#13) finds an open Jim Brown (#32) out in the flat. Giants applying the pressure are Dick Modzelewski (#77), Andy Robustelli (#81) and John LoVetere (#76). Browns offensive lineman Frank Morze (#53) offers support.
Daryle Lamonica gets a passes over the Chiefs Aaron Brown.
2 Browns Hall of Famers - Offensive Guard Joe DeLamielleure (#64) leads th way for Tight End Ozzie Newsome (#82)
The New York Giants defense of the Early 1960s. With the exception of #82 linebacker Tom Scott, this was the Giants lineup for most of the late 50s as well. From left to right - Tom Scott (#82), Andy Robustelli (#81), Sam Huff (#70), Rosey Grier (#76), Dick Modzelewski (#77) & Jim Katcavage (#75). We also think the players visible behind Grier and Modzelewski are Erich Barnes (#49) and Cliff Livingston (#89).
The Eagles defense closes in on Cleveland's great fullback Jim Brown (#32). As lineman Bobby Richards (#68) goes low All-Pro Maxie Baughan (#55) and Dave Lloyd (#52) come up to assist in the stop. Browns tight end Johnny Brewer (#83) is in the background.
Falcons veteran linebacker Tommy Nobis makes Rams tight end Bob Klein pay for a reception in 1972 Rams/Falcons action. Other Falcons pictured are Tony Plummer (#35) and Ray Brown (#34).
in one of Super Bowl Histories big moments Raiders Hall of Fame cornerback Willie Brown returns an interception 75 yards for a touchdown to end Vikings hopes for a comeback in Super Bowl XI.
Willie Brown defends agains long-time veteran receiver Chip Meyers of the Cincinnati Bengals.
Jim Taylor runs makes his way through the congestion of the Browns defense during the 1965 NFL Title game between the Packers and Browns. That day the Pack came away with a 23-12 win and the season Championship. Taylor carried the ball 27 times gaining 96 yards. Those Identifiable through the mud and snow are Browns Bill Glass (#80) and Walter Beach (#49). Packers are, Taylor (#31) and veteran tight end Bill Anderson (#88) on the ground.
Packer MacArthur Lane coughs up the ball against the Washington Redskins Defense in 1972. Redskin defenders pictured here are veterans Brig Owens (#23), former Bear Rosey Taylor (#22) and Mike Bass (#41)
Redskins great from Kansas State. Retired in 1976 as the Redskins All Time leading Career rusher with 5875 yards, and he sill ranks #3 on that list at present.
Down goes Colts quarterback Johnny Unitas (#19) under the weight of Rams lineman Merlin Olsen (#74) and Rosey Grier (#76)
Taken from a 1964 Exhibition Game program between the Bears & Packers played at Tulane Stadium in New Orleans.
Eagles QB Sonny Jurgensen (#9) gets some playing time against the Steelers during Philadelphia's 1960 NFL Title season. Pictured above are, Eagles - Halfback Tim Brown (#22), fullback Theo Sapp (# 30), Jurgensen (#9), guard Jerry Huth (#65), center Chuck Bednarik (#60) & guard John Wittenborn (#52). On the Steeleers defense are Joe Krupa (#71) and Joe Lewis (#75)
Action from the 1956 Giants-Bears Championship game of 1956. Herman Clark (#65) and Stan Jones (#78) pulling out to block while JC Caroline (#25) leads Bears runner Bobby Watkins (#45). Giants defender Rosey Grier (#76) swoops in from behind. Other players noted are Giants Andy Robustelli (#81) and Bill Svoboda (#30). For the Bears there's QB Ed Brown (#15) & End Jim Dooley (#43). When it was all over the Giants ended up dominating the Bears 47-7.
One of Pro Football's early Power Backs. Led the AAFC in rushing in 1948 with 964 yards and the NFL in 1950 with 810. Had the most rushing touchdowns in 1949 with 8.
Newly acquired from the Browns Bobby Mitchell quickly earned his spot on the Redskins roster in 1962. Here he out distances Rosey Grier (#76), Sam Huff (#70), Dan Modzelewski (#77) and the rest of the Giants defense.
Cleveland Browns Quarterback Otto Graham scores against the Rams in the 1955 NFL Championship. Graham scored 2 touchdowns on the ground and passed for 2 more that day in the 38-14 win over the Rams.
A battle of NFL Hall of Famers - Despite being wrapped up by Lions defensive back Dick Lebeau, Browns receiver Paul Warfield holds on to the pass.
Eagles fullback Clarence Peaks is caught between 2 Giants as big Rosey Grier (#76) and Dick Modzelewski (#77) put the heat on quarterback Sonny Jurgensen (#9).
Originally a 2nd-round pick of the Bears in 1961 he was dealt to the Vikings the following season for a 4th round pick. He would go on to play 13 seasons in Minnesota, go to 4 Pro Bowls and leave as the Vikings All-Time Leading rusher. George Halas confessed it was the worst trade he ever made.
1966 Colts & Rams. Fullback Tony Lorick is taken down by Deacon Jones and Rosey Grier.
Browns quarterback Milt Plum looks for a way to deliver a pass around the oncoming rush of Giants Rosey Grier
Packers Hall of Fame QB Bart Starr gets a well placed whack across his nose from Ram defender Rosey Grier.
As a Bear defender lays a ferocious hit on the Packers Jim Taylor, the ball hits the ground as Doug Atkins (#81) and Grambling product Rosey Taylor (#24) get set to pounce on it.
Giants linebacker Sam Huff holds on for dear life as he stops Browns great Jim Brown. All Pro Safety Jim Patton (#20) moves in to assist.
As a rookie had 1112 All Purpose Yards with Cleveland.
Early 1960s NFL action between Cleveland and Baltimore - Hall of Famer Johnny Unitas gets a pass of center Dick Szymanski (#52) and guard Palmer Pyle (#62) keep Browns defender Jim Houston (#82) at bay.
From the early 1960s, the former 27th-round draft pick of the Giants had established himself as one the best NFL lineman of his time.
Led the NFL in 8 of the 9 seasons he played. Became pro football's All-Time Leading rusher in 1963 and held that title for 20 years. Still ranks #11 today.
Vikings fullback Bill Brown breaks into the open field as Bears defender Ritchie Petitbon moves up to stop him.
Rushed for over 1000 yards 7 times in his 9-year NFL career. Averaged 104 yards a game rushing after 118 games. Also scored 126 total touchdowns.
With Big Rosey Brown out in front to block Giants runner Frank Gifford gets ready to turn upfield.
Rams and Vikings clash! LA quarterback Roman Gabriel gets protection as Bob Brown and Les Josephson keep Vikings defender Carl Eller away.
Cleveland defenders led by Pro Bowler Bill Glass swarm over Packers Hall of Famer Paul Hornung. Also pictured is longtime Browns linebacker Galen Fiss (#35).
Cleveland Browns Head Coach is caught with quarterback Milt Plum on the Browns sideline sometime in 1961. The Browns finished 3rd in the NFL East Division with a 8-5-1 record. Plum though had a solid year though completing 58.6% of his 302 attempts for 2416 yards, 18 touchdowns and a 90.3 passer rating. Was named to a second consecutive Pro Bowl too.
Raiders - early 1970s. Pictured are running back Marv Hubbard (at far left), offensive tackle Bob Brown (center), quarterback Daryle Lamonica (background) and tight end Bob Moore (foreground)
In the trenches battle between NFL Hall of Famer Bob Brown (#76) and long time veteran of Cleveland Paul Wiggin (#84) in 1966.
10-Year NFL Veteran. 6 Pro Bowls, 5 All-Pro Tewams
A drawing of the Hall of Famer from a 1966 issue of Pro Football Almanac.
5 Seasons with Eagles - 3 All Pro Teams.
The Eagles 1st-round pick of the 1964 draft.
The Hall of Fame tackle spent the final 3 years of his 10-year NFL career as a Raider, making the Pro Bowl in 1971. Here he is pitted against fellow Hall of Famer Deacon Jones as a Charger.
Drafted in 1964 as the #2 over all pick by the Eagles he played in Philly until 1968 earning 3 All-Pro Team Honors and making 3 Pro Bowl appearances.
Spent 1969 & 1970 with the Rams after being traded from the Eagles. Made All Pro both years.
Rams Hall of Fame Defenders from the mid-1960s, Deacon Jones and Rosey Grier combine to stop Colts runner Tony Lorick.
A battle between 2 of the NFL's biggest stars of the 1950s - Colts defensive tackle Eugene Lipscomb and Giants Hall offensive tackle of Famer Rosey Brown of the Giants.
NFL legend Bobby Layne, formerly of the Detroit Lions but now playing with Pittsburgh gets set to fire a pass against the Cleveland Browns defense in 1960. Also pictured are Steelers Dan James (#55) and John Henry Johnson (#35). For the Browns is Galen Fiss (#35).
Two Legends from the Old School days of Pro Football. Detroit Lions linebacker Joe Schmidt (#56) moves in to stop Cleveland Browns Great Jim Brown (#32).
Both men are in the NFL Hall of Fame.
Another pic from the 1967 Browns 21-10 victory over the Steelers. Marv Woodson along with linebacker Andy Russell take down Browns Great Leroy Kelly
Had 2 interceptions in the Week 4 game of 1967 against Cleveland. Here he takes the pass intended for Browns receiver Gary Collins pass away.
Sonny Jurgensen of the Washington Redskins is brought down by Cleveland Browns veteran defensive end Bill Glass.
Making 1 of his 5 catches in the Redskins win over Denver in 1974.
1961 New York Giants Defense in action against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Dick Lynch (#22), Rosey Grier (#76) & Sam Huff (#70) swarm over the Steelers Hall of Fame runner John Henry Johnson - recognizable only by the number on his helmet. Also shown are the Giants Cliff Livingston (#89) and the Steelers Dan James (#55). The unidentified Giant behind Grier may be Dick Nolan (#25).
After playing his college days at Ohio State and a brief stay in the Canadian Football League he spent 1960, his first season in the NFL, with the Cleveland Browns and started 7 games for them.
From the 1957 Cotton Bowl between Syracuse and Texas Christian University. A 28-27 win by TCU. Brown was the game's MVP scoring 21 of the Orangemen's 27 points rushing for 3 touchdowns and kicking 2 xtra-points while rushing for 132 yards.
Finished his 21-year career as Dolphin. Was a huge part of the offense as he led Miami to 9 straight regular season and 2 playoff wins.
Old School NFL - 1961! Browns halfback Bobby Mithcell takes off after taking in a pass against Pittsburgh. Steelers defender Dicky Moegle moves in after hurdling Browns blocker Dick Schafrath (#77). 1961 would be Mitchell's last season with Cleveland as he joined Washington in 1962.
Taken from the early 1960s Browns quarterback Milt Plum gets behind the blocking of center John Morrow (#56) as Dick Schafrath (#77) takes Billy Ray Smith (#77) of the Steelers out of the play.
Hall of Fame offensive lineman Forrest Greg has his helmet knocked back by long-time defender Jim Houston of the Browns while he protects Packers quarterback Bart Starr.
Photo credit: Rob Riger.
The Browns great runner takes a hand off from Quarterback Milt Plum (#16) and gets ready to go through a huge hole in the Giants defense. In front of Brown is All-Pro guard Jim Ray Smith (#64) and Ray Renfro (#26) at far right. Giants defenders pictured are Rosey Greer (#76, Andy Robustelli (#81), Jim Katcavage (#75) & Cliff Livingston (#89).
1971 action - going up against Bob Brown, the Pro Bowl tackle of the Raiders.
The Hall of Fame quarterback is brought down by Rams legend Deacon Jones as Rosey Grier comes in to support.
The 37-21 win over the Browns in the 1989 AFC Championship game was a big day for the Broncos - 385 passing yards and 3 touchdowns.
A big day against the Saints in 1971. 113 yards rushing plus another 56 receiving with a 36-yard touchdown catch from Billy Kilmer. At the end of the day it was a 24-14 win for Washington over New Orleans. Also pictured for the Saints are #72 - Joe Owens, #89 - Dave Long and #23 - Doug Wyatt.
In 1975 Greg Pruitt was 6th in the NFL in Rushing with 1067 yards and 7th in Total Scrimmage Yards with 1366. Here he is picking up some of those yards against Cincinnati.
The Browns in the background are Robert Jackson (#68), Barry Darrow (#63), Tom DeLeone (#54) & Chuck Hutchinson (#67) while the two Bengals look like Ron Carpenter (#70) and Sherman White (#83)
The Pittsburgh Steelers defense closes in on Cleveland's Hall of Fame fullback Jim Brown. One Steeler defender goes low as fellow team mates Myron Pottios (#66) and Joe Krupa (#75) move in to assist in stopping the Brown's legend.
Action from the Rams and Browns match-up in 1965 played at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Willie Brown (#26) takes a handoff from Roman Gabriel (#18) as Offensive Guard Joe Scibelli (#71) gets out in front to block. Pro Bowler Bill Glass (#80) of the Browns looks on from the distance.
In 1965 the Browns were riding high to an Eastern Division Title, finishing the season with an 11-3 record. But one of those 3 losses was a 42-7 thrashing against these Rams pictured above. Roman Gabriel had a career day passing for 323 yards and 5 touchdowns while running for another.
Shown here in 1964 the Browns legend picks up yardage against the Pittsburgh Steelers. That year he rushed for 1446 yards and averaged 5.2 yards a carry.
Hall of Famer Paul Hornung carries against the Cleveland Browns defense in the 1965 NFL Championship game. Hornung had 105 yards on 18 carries including a 13-yard touchdown run in the 3rd quarter that put the game out of reach of Browns. Final score - Green Bay 23 Cleveland 12. Brown player #20 is veteran Ross Fichtner. That might be Bill Glass in the background.
A sketch of the pounding Vikings running back made in 1966. From a Sport Magazine article.
In his 10-year career Leroy Kelly accounted for over 9500 total yards from scrimmage and 90 touchdowns.
The Leader on 7 different Championship teams in his 10-year Pro Football Career - Cleveland Browns Hall of Fame Quarterback Otto Graham
An 8th round draft pick in 1964 from Morgan State by the Cleveland he played 10 seasons for the Browns and finished with 7274 yards and 74 rushing touchdowns. He also caught 190 passes for another 2281 yards and 13 touchdowns. He is still the #2 All-Time Rushing Yards Leader for the Browns.
An 8th round draft pick in 1964 from Morgan State by the Cleveland he played 10 seasons for the Browns and finished with 7274 yards and 74 rushing touchdowns. He also caught 190 passes for another 2281 yards and 13 touchdowns. He is still the #2 All-Time Rushing Yards Leader for the Browns.
10 years in the NFL (1964-1973) he was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1994. He retired as the #5 All-Time leading rusher in 1973.
Together with the Legendary Jim Brown (#32), Bobby Mitchell (#49) was part of one the NFL most productive backfields. In 4 seasons they combined for 7818 rushing yards, 64 rushing touchdowns, 233 catches, 2453 recieving yards and 21 receiving touchdowns.
3-Time Pro Bowler with the Browns. 1959, 1960 and 1961.
Set an NFL of 208 consecutive passes without an interception between 1959 and 1960.
Selected as #50 among the 100 Best Cleveland Browns players of All-Time.
3-Time Pro Bowler with the Browns. 1959, 1960 and 1961.
Set an NFL of 208 consecutive passes without an interception between 1959 and 1960.
Selected as #50 among the 100 Best Cleveland Browns players of All-Time.
Cleveland Browns quarterback Milt Plum fires off a pass under pressure
from the Giants Jim Katcavage. At the time of this picture, probably taken
in 1960, Plum was an up-and-coming young superstar among NFL quarterbacks of
the time. It was almost 50 years later when some of his records were still
being chased by the likes of Peyton Manning and Tom Brady.
A 2nd round pick from Penn State, Plum was chosen by the Cleveland Browns in 1957. Sharing quarterbacking duties with starter Tommy O'Connell, the Browns posted a 9-2-1 record winning the Eastern Conference title his rookie season. He stayed with Cleveland until 1961 leading them to 33 wins while passing for 8914 yards and 66 touchdowns.
He led the NFL in Completion Percentage 1959, 1960 and 1961. His quarterback rating of 110.4 was the NFL's best until 1989 when bested by Joe Montana.
A 2nd round pick from Penn State, Plum was chosen by the Cleveland Browns in 1957. Sharing quarterbacking duties with starter Tommy O'Connell, the Browns posted a 9-2-1 record winning the Eastern Conference title his rookie season. He stayed with Cleveland until 1961 leading them to 33 wins while passing for 8914 yards and 66 touchdowns.
He led the NFL in Completion Percentage 1959, 1960 and 1961. His quarterback rating of 110.4 was the NFL's best until 1989 when bested by Joe Montana.
A 2nd round pick from Penn State, Plum was chosen by the Cleveland Browns in 1957. Sharing quarterbacking duties with starter Tommy O'Connell, the Browns posted a 9-2-1 record winning the Eastern Conference title his rookie season. He stayed with Cleveland until 1961 leading them to 33 wins while passing for 8914 yards and 66 touchdowns.
He led the NFL in Completion Percentage 1959, 1960 and 1961. His quarterback rating of 110.4 was the NFL's best until 1989 when bested by Joe Montana.
A 2nd round pick from Penn State, Plum was chosen by the Cleveland Browns in 1957. Sharing quarterbacking duties with starter Tommy O'Connell, the Browns posted a 9-2-1 record winning the Eastern Conference title his rookie season. He stayed with Cleveland until 1961 leading them to 33 wins while passing for 8914 yards and 66 touchdowns.
He led the NFL in Completion Percentage 1959, 1960 and 1961. His quarterback rating of 110.4 was the NFL's best until 1989 when bested by Joe Montana.
A 2nd round pick from Penn State, Plum was chosen by the Cleveland Browns in 1957. Sharing quarterbacking duties with starter Tommy O'Connell, the Browns posted a 9-2-1 record winning the Eastern Conference title his rookie season. He stayed with Cleveland until 1961 leading them to 33 wins while passing for 8914 yards and 66 touchdowns.
He led the NFL in Completion Percentage 1959, 1960 and 1961. His quarterback rating of 110.4 was the NFL's best until 1989 when bested by Joe Montana.
A 2nd round pick from Penn State, Plum was chosen by the Cleveland Browns in 1957. Sharing quarterbacking duties with starter Tommy O'Connell, the Browns posted a 9-2-1 record winning the Eastern Conference title his rookie season. He stayed with Cleveland until 1961 leading them to 33 wins while passing for 8914 yards and 66 touchdowns.
He led the NFL in Completion Percentage 1959, 1960 and 1961. His quarterback rating of 110.4 was the NFL's best until 1989 when bested by Joe Montana.
A Pro Bowl participant in 1987 Kosar led the Browns to a 10-5 record that ended with the AFC Championship game against the Denver Broncos. That season saw him with over 3000 passing yards and 22 touchdowns.
One of the original bruising fullbacks of football. Marion Motley was an All-Pro in 1950 and made the Pro Bowl teams in 1948 and 1950. He ended his career with a 5.7 yards-per-carry average.
The legendary Browns fullback runs through - and over - Fred Miller and the rest of the Baltimore Colts defense.
Jim Brown gets behind long-time offensive guard Gene Hickerson for gain. Brown finished his 9-year career with a 5.2 yard average.
Though originally selected by the Chicago Bears in the 1961 NFL Draft, Bill Brown found his true home in Minnesota. Over 13 seasons with the Vikings (1962–1974), the rugged fullback became one of the most dependable backs in franchise history, grinding out yards and serving as a cornerstone of the Minnesota offense.
When Brown hung up his cleats after the 1974 season, he left as the Vikings' all-time leading rusher with 5,757 career yards — a record he held for four years until Chuck Foreman eclipsed the mark in 1978. Even so, Brown's legacy has proven remarkably durable: more than five decades after his final carry, he still ranks fifth on the franchise's all-time rushing list.
The All-Time leading leading rusher of the short-lived All-American Football Conference - Fullback Marion Motley.
Sketch of the Hall of fame Fullback from the book 50 Years of NFL Excitement.
Hall of Fame Fullback Jim Brown rushed for 12,312 yards and was voted MVP 4 different times.
Best known as the 4-Time Super Bowl winning head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers Chuck Noll spent 7 years with the Cleveland Browns from 1953-1959 - started on the 1954 and 1955 Championship teams.
A former 1st round draft pick of the Dallas Cowboys, Hill played the final 4 years of his 12 year NFL career with the Cleveland Browns. While primarily a third-down back he managed to play in a total of 55 games for the Browns. He managed only 516 yards rushing but receiving he hauled in 107 passes for 1248 yards and 16 touchdowns. He retired after the 1981 season.
Stayed with the Cleveland Browns from 1978-1981 before retiring.
Redskins quarterback Sonny Jurgensen (#9) gets set behind his offensive line as runningbacks Larry Brown (#43) and Charley Harraway (#31) move into position.
An 8th round draft pick from Kansas State in 1969 Brown quickly established himself as the #1 halfback rushing for 888 yards and earning a trip to the Pro Bowl.
Gameplay from 1970 against the St. Louis Cardinals. Brown led the NFL in rushing that year with 1125 yards. He also enjoyed a trip the Pro Bowl and made the All-Pro Team.
Hanford Dixon, cornerback for the Cleveland Browns comes down with 1 of his 3 interceptions in the December 19, 1982 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Cleveland Municipal Stadium. The 10-9 Browns victory kept their playoff hopes alive for the season. Also pictured is long-time veteran Browns Free Safety Clarence Scott (#22).
From the December 19, 1982 Browns-Steelers game at Cleveland Municipal Stadium. Pro Bowl Corner Back Hanford Dixon had a career game against the Steelers as he hauled in 3 interceptions, 1 sack and 2 forced fumbles. Here he brings down Pittsburgh quarterback Terry Bradshaw as Bradshaw loses the football. It was recovered by defensive lineman Elvis Franks (#94). The Browns went on to win the contest 10-9.
Congratulated by #23 Mark Kafentzis, #22 Clarence Scott and the rest of the Cleveland Browns team after he has just brought down one of his 3 interceptions of the Steelers Terry Bradshaw in the 1982 at Cleveland. Halting a Pittsburgh scoring threat late in the game, the pick helped the Browns come away with a 10-9 victory.
Holding the ball aloft Cleveland Browns defender Hanford Dixon celebrates after an interception of a Terry Bradshaw pass in 1982. Dixon was chosen as #16 of the 100 Best Cleveland Brown Players of All-Time. Along with fellow Brown defensive back Frank Minnifield playing the opposite corner they formed one of the most effective cornerback combos in NFL History.
A 1st-round draft pick in 1981 from Southern Mississippi. Together with fellow defender Frank Minnifield formed one of the most efficient cornerback tandems ever in the NFL. Played from 1981 to 1989 and was named to 3 consecutive Pro Bowls in 1986, 1987 and 1989. Finished with 26 career interceptions.
A 1st-round draft pick in 1981 from Southern Mississippi. Together with fellow defender Frank Minnifield formed one of the most efficient cornerback tandems ever in the NFL. Played from 1981 to 1989 and was named to 3 consecutive Pro Bowls in 1986, 1987 and 1989. Finished with 26 career interceptions.
A 1st-round draft pick in 1981 from Southern Mississippi. Together with fellow defender Frank Minnifield formed one of the most efficient cornerback tandems ever in the NFL. Played from 1981 to 1989 and was named to 3 consecutive Pro Bowls in 1986, 1987 and 1989. Finished with 26 career interceptions.
The Raiders Willie Brown takes down Steelers Receiver Lynn Swann
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Browns Hall of Famers Otto Graham (#14) and Dante Lavelli (#86).
Al Baker brings down Steve Deberg of the Chiefs
Al Baker, Defensive Lineman, Cleveland Browns 1987, 1989-1990
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Detroit Lion Linebacker Joe Schmidt puts the heat on Cleveland Browns Quarterback Frank Ryan as Ryan just gets off a pass.
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Bobby Layne sets up tp pass in the 1953 Championship game against Cleveland. Layne and the Lions won this one 17-16 as Layne connected with Jim Doran on a 33-yard strike with less than 3 minutes to play. That looks like Browns Hall of Famer Bill Willis in pursuit.
It takes the entire Cleveland Browns defense to stop the Houston Oilers Running back.
Giant great Sam Huff brings down Browns Hall of Fame fullback Jim Brown.
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A 1st-round draft of Cleveland out of Miami of Florida he quarterbacked the Browns from 1985 to 1993. Made All-Pro in 1987 when he led the Browns all the way to the AFC Championship. Finished his 9-year career in Cleveland with 21.904 yards, 116 touchdown passes and a 58.8% pass completion rate.
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