An iconic NFL figure has died.
Jim Brown, widely regarded as one of the best running backs in the history of football, died on Thursday at the age of 87, his wife, Monique, announced Friday afternoon on Instagram.
After being drafted out of Syracuse, Brown’s tenure with the Cleveland Browns from 1957-65 saw him rush for 12,312 yards and 106 touchdowns.
He won a Super Bowl with Cleveland in 1964 and won the league’s MVP award three times (1957, 1958, 1965). He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1971.
After his playing career, Brown transitioned into a Hollywood acting career, appearing in films such as The Dirty Dozen, El Condor, Riot, 100 Rifles, The Running Man and Any Given Sunday. He was also known for his active role in the Civil Rights movement.
Since the 1960s, Brown was accused multiple times of assault and domestic violence, including rape charges that were ultimately dropped. In 1999, he was charged with making “terroristic” threats against his wife and convicted of vandalizing her vehicle.
In his later days, Brown had served in an advisory role within the Cleveland Browns organization.
Hall of Fame running back Jim Brown has passed away, his wife Monique Brown announced on Instagram. RIP to a #Browns legend. pic.twitter.com/giDTuPQfmN
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) May 19, 2023
The NFL, the Cleveland Browns and league commissioner Roger Goodell all put out statements in response to Brown’s death.
Jim Brown Forever 🧡🤎♾️
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
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) May 19, 2023
We are heartbroken by the passing of the legendary Jim Brown.
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
— NFL (@NFL) May 19, 2023
Roger Goodell on the passing of Jim Brown. pic.twitter.com/rK34c3PcHG
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) May 19, 2023