Legendary offensive lineman Bob Brown, enshrined in both the Pro Football and College Football Halls of Fame, passed away on Friday at the age of 81, surrounded by loved ones. Brown's illustrious 10-year NFL career, spanning from 1964 to 1973, saw him play for the Eagles, Rams, and Raiders. His dominance on the field earned him nine All-Pro selections and a place on the NFL's 1960s All-Decade team, solidifying his reputation as one of the premier offensive linemen of his time.
Brown's wife revealed, through a statement from the Pro Football Hall of Fame, that he suffered a stroke in April and had been undergoing rehabilitation since then. Hall of Fame President Jim Porter offered a heartfelt tribute, highlighting Brown's contrasting demeanor on and off the field. "On the field, he was a force to be reckoned with, utilizing every strategy and technique to overpower his opponents," Porter stated. "Off the field, however, he possessed a quiet, gentle, and caring nature."
A standout at the University of Nebraska, Brown was the second overall pick in the 1964 NFL Draft and a unanimous All-American. His alma mater retired his number 64 in recognition of his remarkable collegiate career. He was also a first-round pick in the 1964 AFL Draft. During his time with the Raiders, Brown played alongside fellow Hall of Famers Gene Upshaw, Jim Otto, Art Shell, and Ron Mix, forming a formidable offensive line. The late John Madden, who coached Brown with the Raiders, praised his unparalleled aggressiveness, stating, "Bob was the most aggressive lineman that ever played."
