Jim Brown

James Nathaniel Brown (February 17, 1936 – May 18, 2023) was an American professional football player, civil rights activist, and actor who played fullback for the Cleveland Browns of the National Football League from 1957 to 1965. Across his nine seasons he was selected to a Pro Bowl and an All-Pro team every year, and he was recognized as the Associated Press NFL Most Valuable Player three times. He led the league in rushing yards in eight of his nine seasons, and by the time he retired he held most major rushing records. Brown won an NFL championship with the Browns in 1964. In 1999 he was named the greatest professional football player ever by both The Sporting News and the Associated Press.

Before turning professional, Brown played college football at Syracuse University, earning unanimous All-America honors as an all-around player for the Syracuse Orangemen. The university later retired his number 44 jersey, and he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1995. He is also widely regarded as one of the greatest lacrosse players of all time.