How great was the one and only Jim Brown?

Throughout the history of the NFL they have been dozens of outstanding Hall of Fame quality running backs but none can touch the incredible performance and consistent accomplishments of one Jim Brown.

This special series provides insight on the accomplishments in

Brown's life that is well worth learning about, celebrating remembering.

Jim Brown is widely regarded as one of the greatest running backs in the history of the National Football League (NFL) for several reasons. Although opinions may differ on who the absolute best running back is, there are several compelling arguments for Jim Brown's exceptional talent and impact on the game.

More than a football star, Brown epitomized NFL excellence and the extraordinary talent, speed, agility, and consistency necessary to become a legend in the league. He is the best of what the NFL could ever be when it comes to athletic prowess.

The average sports fan today no very little about Jim Brown who passed away on May 18th in his Los Angeles home. It's unfortunate that most football fans have not been able to truly enjoy and appreciate the devastating dominance Brown had and his nine seasons with the Cleveland browns. Far more than a football player, Brown excelled and Lacrosse becoming one of the best players in the nation, basketball where he was a standout and letterman, as well as of course football. His speed and power served him well.

Brown's imposing statue now stands at one of the main entrances of Cleveland Browns home stadium (seen below). Fans today can be introduced or reminded of this once is a lifetime talent that we may never see again.

It is unfortunate that fans didn't get to see any of his 32 films that catapulted him from football star to Hollywood movie star. It's unfortunate that most who have benefited most from the civil Rights movement are unaware of the impact Brown had on racial equality, as well as his fight to address gang violence and more.

Here are some key factors that contribute to his status as one of the greatest running backs of all time:

1. Dominance and Statistical Achievements: Jim Brown played for the Cleveland Browns from 1957 to 1965, during which he consistently displayed exceptional performance. Despite playing in an era with fewer games per season, Brown still holds numerous records and achieved remarkable statistical milestones. He retired as the NFL's all-time leading rusher with 12,312 yards, a record that stood for over two decades. Remarkably, he achieved this in just nine seasons, which is significantly shorter than many other top running backs. Brown's average of 104.3 rushing yards per game remains the highest in NFL history, further highlighting his dominance on the field.

2. Physical Prowess: Jim Brown possessed an extraordinary combination of size, speed, strength, and athleticism that set him apart from his contemporaries. Standing at 6 feet 2 inches and weighing around 230 pounds, he was larger than most running backs of his era, allowing him to overpower defenders with ease. Brown's blend of speed and power made him an unstoppable force on the field. He had the ability to outrun defenders and break tackles, consistently gaining significant yardage after contact. His physicality made him a nightmare for opposing defenses and earned him the reputation of being one of the most bruising and punishing runners of all time.

3. Versatility: Brown was not only an exceptional runner but also a versatile athlete. He possessed outstanding agility, lateral quickness, and the ability to change direction on a dime. He was a threat in both the running and passing game, with reliable hands as a receiver. Brown averaged over 45 receptions per season, which was a remarkable achievement for a running back during his era. His versatility made him a multi-dimensional threat, and opposing teams struggled to contain his impact on the game.

4. Consistency and Durability: Brown's remarkable production and performance were sustained over a relatively short career. In each of his nine seasons, he rushed for over 1,000 yards, an impressive feat considering the shorter season length during that era. Brown's ability to maintain such a high level of play and remain injury-free throughout his career is a testament to his durability and work ethic.

5. Impact on the Game: Beyond his individual accomplishments, Jim Brown revolutionized the running back position and transformed the way the game was played. He brought a new level of power, speed, and dominance to the position, redefining the expectations for future running backs. His playing style and success inspired generations of athletes who sought to emulate his physicality and skill set.

It is important to note that evaluating the best running back in NFL history involves subjective judgment, as the game has evolved over time, and numerous other exceptional running backs have contributed significantly to the sport. However, when considering the combination of dominance, statistical achievements, physical prowess, versatility, consistency, durability, and impact on the game, Jim Brown's legacy as one of the greatest running backs of all time remains unquestionable.

Jim Brown has a name that is so reflective of the man who carried it through his life that it's more of a statement of excellence. We encourage you to check out some of his highlight reels, and look at his life as it relates to the contributions he made to the culture and to racial equality and justice.