50 Cleveland Browns Best Players of All Time

John Rizzo

Updated on:

50 Cleveland Browns Best Players

The Cleveland Browns are a professional American football team based in Cleveland, Ohio. Founded by original coach and co-founder Paul Brown in 1945, the franchise has been one of the most successful teams in history – winning eight NFL championships since its inception.

Throughout their long and illustrious history, they have become an integral part of both Ohio culture as well as that of the National Football League. With passionate fans who proudly wear orange and brown to show their support for this historic organization, it’s easy to see why so many people love cheering on these beloved “Brownies”.

Table of Contents

1. Ozzie Newsome

Tight end

Ozzie Newsome Career

  • 2× First-team All-Pro (1979, 1984)
  • 4× Second-team All-Pro (1980, 1981, 1983, 1985)
  • 3× Pro Bowl (1981, 1984, 1985)
  • NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (1978)
  • Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor
  • Consensus All-American (1977)
  • 2× First-team All-SEC (1976, 1977)

Ozzie Newsome is the executive vice president of player personnel for the Baltimore Ravens. Newsome was drafted 23rd overall by the Cleveland Browns in 1978 and played for them until 1990.

He then spent six years as general manager of the Browns before being hired by the Ravens in 2002. Under his leadership, the Ravens have won five Super Bowls (as well as two AFC Championships) and are one of only two franchises to win multiple titles in three different sports (the other team is the New England Patriots).

In 2017, he was voted into his seventh consecutive Pro Football Hall of Fame induction ceremony, becoming just the fifth person ever to be elected unanimously into that prestigious group. 

He is one of the most successful general managers in NFL history, having won three Super Bowl championships with the Baltimore Ravens. Newsome played college football at Miami (FL) and was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the first round of the 1971 NFL Draft.

He spent his entire 11-year career with Cleveland, becoming a 2nd-team All-Pro linebacker before being traded to Baltimore midway through his 12th season in 1978. 

After four seasons as director of pro personnel for Baltimore, he was promoted to executive vice president/player personnel in 2002 and held that position until 2018 when he was named GM again after Dick LeBeau retired following the 2017 season.

As GM, Newsome has led Baltimore to five playoff appearances (2007–2012), two AFC Championship games (2013–2014), and their third Super Bowl victory over New England Patriots 41–34 on February 5th 2019.

2. Jim Brown

Running back

Jim Brown Career

  • Jim Brown was lacrosse star.
  • He was All-American in 1956-57.
  • Scored 5 goals in 1957 All-Star game.
  • Averaged 4.3 goals senior year.
  • Preferred lacrosse over football.

Brown was one of the most dominant players in NFL history. He won four MVP awards and is second all-time in rushing yards with 18,312. Brown also had a stellar career as a blocker and receiver for the Cleveland Browns.

In 1957 he became the first player to rush for 1,000 yards and catch 100 passes in a season. Brown retired from professional football after the 1965 season but continued to play semi-professional ball until his retirement in 1975 at age 40 due to injuries sustained while playing basketball.

Brown has since been recognized as an athletic icon and civil rights activist who has spoken out about social injustice throughout his life. Brown was an all-time great NFL running back who led his team to five championships in the 1960s. 

He also received several prestigious awards, including three MVP Awards and a retired number 32 for the Cleveland Browns.

Brown is arguably one of the most iconic athletes in American history and is considered by many to be among the greatest college football players ever.

Also Played For: college football, syracuse orange football

3. Myles Garrett

Defensive end

Myles Garrett Career

  • 2× First-team All-Pro (2020, 2021)
  • Second-team All-Pro (2018)
  • 4× Pro Bowl (2018, 2020−2022)
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (2017)
  • Bill Willis Trophy (2015)
  • Unanimous All-American (2016)
  • First-team All-American (2015)
  • 2× First-team All-SEC (2015, 2016)
  • Second-team All-SEC (2014)

Garrett was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft and has since become a starter for the Cleveland Browns. Garrett is known for his explosiveness off the line of scrimmage, as well as his pass-rushing skills.

In 2018, he recorded 10 sacks and helped lead the Browns to their first playoff appearance in over 50 years. As a rookie, Garrett was named to both The Sporting News' All-Rookie Team and Pro Football Focus's All-Pro Second team.

Garrett was a consensus All-American in 2016 and was a first-team selection by both the Associated Press and the Football Writers Association of America. Garrett has also been selected to four Pro Bowls, including two as an alternate and one as a starter.

He is second on the team with 73 sacks since entering the NFL in 2017. Garrett starred at Texas A&M where he recorded 242 tackles, 32 sacks, 15 interceptions (including nine returned for touchdowns), 11 pass breakups, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and one defensive touchdown over his career there.

Also Played For: defensive end, madden nfl 21

4. Otto Graham

Quarterback

Otto Graham Career

  • 4× AAFC champion (1946–1949)
  • 2× AAFC Most Valuable Player (1947, 1948)
  • 3× First-team All-AAFC (1947–1949)
  • Second-team All-AAFC (1946)
  • 3× NFL champion (1950, 1954, 1955)
  • 3× NFL MVP (1951, 1953, 1955)
  • 4× First-team All-Pro (1951, 1953–1955)
  • 2× Second-team All-Pro (1950, 1952)
  • 5× Pro Bowl (1950–1954)
  • 2× NFL passing yards leader (1952, 1953)
  • NFL passing touchdowns leader (1952)
  • 2× NFL passer rating leader (1953, 1955)
  • 4× NFL completion percentage leader (1947, 1953–1955)
  • NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
  • NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
  • NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
  • Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor
  • Cleveland Browns No. 14 retired
  • Big Ten Player of the Year (1943)
  • First-team All-American (1943)
  • First-team All-Big Ten (1943)
  • 2× Second-team All-Big Ten (1941, 1942

Otto Graham was a Hall of Fame quarterback who played 14 seasons in the NFL. He is best known for his time with the Cleveland Browns, where he led them to back-to-back championships in 1948 and 1949.

After retiring as a player, Graham served as head coach of the Dallas Cowboys (1961–1965) and Buffalo Bills (1966). He also worked as a broadcaster for CBS Sports from 1966 until his death in 2003. In 1999, Otto Graham was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Otto Graham was one of the most successful quarterbacks in NFL history. He won four championships with the Cleveland Browns and was named MVP twice. Graham also played for Washington, Coast Guard, and the Bears before retiring in 1968. 

His touchdown-to-interception ratio is among the best ever, with a career average of 22 touchdowns to just six interceptions.

He is credited with revolutionizing pro football by leading his teams to unprecedented levels of success on both offense and defense simultaneously.

Also Played For: northwestern wildcats football

5. Lou Groza

Tackle

Lou Groza Career

  • NFL Most Valuable Player – SN (1954)
  • 4× NFL champion (1950, 1954, 1955, 1964)
  • 4× AAFC champion (1946–1949)
  • 4× First-team All-Pro (1952–1955)
  • 2× Second-team All-Pro (1956, 1957)
  • Second-team All-AAFC (1946)
  • 9× Pro Bowl (1950–1955, 1957–1959)
  • NFL scoring leader (1957)
  • NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
  • NFL 50th Anniversary All-Time Team
  • Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor
  • Cleveland Browns No. 76 retired

Groza was a three-time All-American and two-time College Football Hall of Fame, inductee. He is best known for his accomplishments as an offensive tackle for the Cleveland Browns, with whom he won four NFL Championships (1946–49, 1954).

Groza holds several NFL records, including the most points scored in a career (1,094), most field goals made in a season (33), and most consecutive games played without making a field goal (21). 

In 1971, Groza became the first player in league history to be named both Offensive Player of the Year and Most Valuable Player at the same time.

He also served as president of the Pro Football Hall of Fame from 1986 to 2000. Groza was one of the most accomplished kickers in NFL history, earning nine Pro Bowl selections and leading the league in scoring twice. 

Groza is also a member of both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor. After retiring from playing football, Groza served as an ambassador for his alma mater – Ohio State University – until his death in 2018 at age 94.

6. Joe Thomas

Offensive lineman

Joe Thomas Career

  • 6× First-team All-Pro (2009–2011, 2013–2015)
  • 2× Second-team All-Pro (2008, 2012)
  • 10× Pro Bowl (2007–2016)
  • NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007)
  • Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor
  • Outland Trophy (2006)
  • Unanimous All-American (2006)
  • 2× First-team All-Big Ten (2005, 2006)

Joe Thomas is a veteran NFL tackle who has spent his entire career with the Cleveland Browns. He was drafted by Cleveland in 2007 and has played there for six seasons, winning two championship rings.

Joe is known as one of the best blocking linemen in the league and is a big part of why the Browns have been successful over the years. In 2017, he announced that he would be retiring at the end of that season after 14 years in professional football.

Joe Thomas is a 10-time Pro Bowler and 2-time Second Team All-Pro. Joe Thomas was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 2007 and has remained with the team ever since. Joe Thomas has been an anchor for Brown's offensive line, playing in 167 games over his career thus far.

Joe Thomas is considered one of, if not the best center in NFL history and should be noted as such when discussing all-time greats at his position. 

With age beginning to catch up to him (he will turn 34 later this year), it's important that he signs another long-term contract with Cleveland before he retires or leaves town on bad terms like so many other former Brown players have done in recent memory thus far.

Also Played For: wisconsin badgers football, chicago bears best defensive players

7. Baker Mayfield

Quarterback

Baker Mayfield Career

  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (2018)
  • Heisman Trophy (2017)
  • Manning Award (2017)
  • Maxwell Award (2017)
  • Walter Camp Award (2017)
  • Davey O'Brien Award (2017)
  • Chic Harley Award (2017)
  • 2× Kellen Moore Award (2015, 2016)
  • 2× Burlsworth Trophy (2015, 2016)
  • AP College Football Player of the Year (2017)
  • 2× Sporting News Player of the Year (2015, 2017)
  • Sugar Bowl MVP (2017)
  • 2× Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year (2015, 2017)
  • Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year (2013)
  • 2× First-team All-American (2015, 2017)
  • 3× First-team All-Big 12 (2015–2017)

Baker Mayfield was drafted 1st overall by the Cleveland Browns in 2018. He started 14 games for the Browns in 2018 and led them to a 9-7 record. In 2019, he won his first career playoff game as a starter against the Indianapolis Colts.

In 2020, he signed with the Los Angeles Rams and had an outstanding season, leading them to their first Super Bowl victory since 1999. Baker Mayfield is one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in college football and looks to be a top pick in this year's NFL draft.

Mayfield was a standout quarterback at Oklahoma, leading his team to two Big 12 titles and an appearance in the College Football Playoff. He has excellent passing skills but also shows great running ability, which could make him a valuable dual-threat QB in the NFL.

Some pundits question how well he will handle pressure from pro defenders, but he should have no problem adapting to the professional game if drafted high enough by a team like the Cleveland Browns or New York Giants.

Also Played For: oklahoma sooners football, heisman trophy nfl

8. Paul Warfield

Paul Warfield Career

  • 2× Super Bowl champion (VII, VIII)
  • NFL champion (1964)
  • 2× First-team All-Pro (1971, 1973)
  • 3× Second-team All-Pro (1968, 1970, 1972)
  • 8× Pro Bowl (1964, 1968–1974)
  • 2× NFL receiving touchdowns leader (1968, 1971)
  • NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
  • NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
  • Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor
  • Miami Dolphins Honor Roll
  • National champion (1961)
  • First-team All-American (1963)
  • 2× First-team All-Big Ten (1962, 1963)

Paul Warfield was a wide receiver who played in the NFL for 14 seasons. He is best known for his time with the Cleveland Browns, where he became one of the team's leading receivers.

Warfield also had successful stints with the Miami Dolphins and Memphis Southmen during his career. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1979. 

Paul Warfield passed away on February 8, 2015, at age 80 after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease Warfield was a two-time Super Bowl champion and three-time First-team All-Pro.

He also holds the record for NFL receiving touchdowns leader with 68 in 1968 and 71 in 1971. Warfield is a member of the Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor and Miami Dolphins Honor Roll, as well as National champion 1961.

Also Played For: ohio state buckeyes football

9. Dante Lavelli

Dante Lavelli Career

  • 3× NFL champion (1950, 1954, 1955)
  • First-team All-Pro (1953)
  • 3× Pro Bowl (1951, 1953, 1954)
  • 4× AAFC champion (1946–1949)
  • 2× First-team All-AAFC (1946, 1947)
  • 2× Second-team All-AAFC (1948, 1949)
  • AAFC receiving yards leader (1946)
  • AAFC receptions leader (1946)
  • NFL 1940s All-Decade Team
  • Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor
  • National champion (1942)

Dante Lavelli was an end for the Cleveland Browns from 1946-1956. He had a successful career and is one of only two players in team history to have played in six championship games (the other being Jim Brown).

Lavelli was drafted by the Rams in 1947, but elected to sign with the Browns instead. After a productive rookie season, he became one of the league's top ends and helped lead Cleveland to back-to-back championships in 1950 and 1951.

In 1956, after nine seasons with Cleveland, Lavelli was traded to the Baltimore Colts where he finished his career later that year. He retired as the franchise leader in sacks (61), forced fumbles (40) and interceptions (16). 

Dante Lavelli continued playing football into his 70s; he made several appearances for semi-professional teams throughout Ohio before retiring following his final game in 2009 at age 85.

Today, Dante is considered one of Cleveland's all-time greats and is often honored during home games or special events commemorating team achievements. 

Lavelli died on January 20th, 2009 at age 85 after a long illness Dante Lavelli was an all-pro receiver in the NFL for three seasons during the 1950s. He led the league in receiving yards and touchdowns in each of those years, and is also a member of the Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor.

Dante also starred as a running back for Cleveland from 1946 to 1949, leading his team to two AAFC championships and one NFL championship.

10. Leroy Kelly

Leroy Kelly Career

  • NFL champion (1964)
  • 4× First-team All-Pro (1966–1968, 1971)
  • Second-team All-Pro (1969)
  • 6× Pro Bowl (1966–1971)
  • 2× NFL rushing yards leader (1967, 1968)
  • 3× NFL rushing touchdowns leader (1966–1968)
  • NFL scoring leader (1968)
  • Bert Bell Award (1968)
  • NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
  • Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor

Leroy Kelly was a running back for the Cleveland Browns from 1964 to 1973. He was a two-time NFL champion and earned All-Pro honors in both of his seasons with the team.

Leroy Kelly attended Philadelphia's Gratz High School, where he excelled as a runner and receiver. After playing college football at Morgan State, Kelly was drafted by the Browns in the eighth round of the 1964 NFL Draft.

In his 16-year career, Kelly rushed for over 12,000 yards and scored over 100 touchdowns while also catching more than 500 passes. His best season came in 1971 when he led the league in rushing yards (1,852) and scoring (22 touchdowns).

Leroy Kelly retired from professional football following the 1973 season after suffering a knee injury that ended his chances of winning another championship ring with Cleveland. 

He later moved to Chicago where he played for one year before retiring permanently from competition at age 40 due to arthritis in his feet Leroy Kelly was one of the most prolific running backs in NFL history.

He rushed for over 7,000 yards and scored 74 touchdowns during his nine-year career with the Cleveland Browns. Kelly's skills as a runner were on full display when he led the league in rushing yards and scoring in 1968. 

He also made two trips to the Pro Bowl and earned First-team All-Pro honors twice. After leaving the NFL following the 1971 season, Kelly went on to have a successful career as a coach with both college football teams (USC) and an NFL team (San Francisco 49ers).

Leroy Kelly is now widely regarded as one of Cleveland's all-time greatest players, earning induction into both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor after his death in 2006 at age 70 years old.

11. Marion Motley

Marion Motley Career

  • NFL champion (1950)
  • NFL rushing yards leader (1950)
  • 2× First-team All-Pro (1948, 1950)
  • Pro Bowl (1950)
  • NFL 1940s All-Decade Team
  • NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
  • NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
  • Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor
  • 4× AAFC champion (1946–1949)
  • AAFC rushing yards leader (1948)
  • AAFC rushing touchdowns leader (1949)
  • Nevada Wolf Pack No. 41 retired

Marion Motley was a halfback and linebacker who played in the NFL for eleven seasons. He was born in Leesburg, Georgia, on June 5th, 1920, and died in Cleveland, Ohio on June 27th, 1999 at the age of 79.

Marion Motley attended Canton McKinley High School where he starred as a quarterback and linebacker before going on to play college football at Nevada. 

Despite being undrafted out of college, Marion Motley was signed by the Chicago Cardinals as an end in 1946 but only played one game before being released due to injury.

Marion Motley then joined the Baltimore Colts during their inaugural season (1947-48) but again didn't make much impact so he left for the New York Giants in 1949 where he became an integral part of their backfield over the next decade or so culminating with his induction into the Pro Football Hall Of Fame in 1985. 

In all, Marion Motley appeared in 213 games (196 starts), gaining 2272 yards from scrimmage and averaging 4 touchdowns per year while scoring two safeties Marion Motley was one of the most prolific running backs in NFL history.

He racked up over 12,000 yards from scrimmage and scored 56 rushing touchdowns during his career with the Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Los Angeles Rams. 

Marion Motley was a four-time AAFC champion and two-time NFL rushing leader. In 1951 he became the first player in league history to rush for 2,000 yards in each of his first three seasons. 

After retiring as a player Marion Motley served as head coach of both the Rams and Raiders before passing away at age 66 from heart failure complications stemming from diabetes mellitus.

12. Joel Bitonio

Offensive lineman

Joel Bitonio Career

  • First-team All-Pro (2021)
  • 3× Second-team All-Pro (2018–2020)
  • 5× Pro Bowl (2018–2022)
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (2014)
  • First-team All-MWC (2013)

Joel Bitonio is a guard for the Cleveland Browns. He was drafted in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft. Bitonio played college football at Nevada, where he earned All-Mountain West Conference honors as a senior in 2013.

Prior to playing professionally, Joel spent three seasons (2010–2013) with the San Francisco 49ers organization, appearing in 53 games and starting 38 of them. 

In his six years in the NFL, including stints with both San Francisco and Cleveland, Bitonio has appeared in 152 games and started 134 of them at either guard or center position.

His achievements on the field have not gone unnoticed; Joel has named an AFC Pro Bowl selection in 2017 and has also been selected to play in two Super Bowls (49ers 2016, Browns 2019). 

Outside of professional football, Joel enjoys spending time with his wife Sydney and their daughter Alayna; he also volunteers with organizations that support children living. 

With cancer or other disabilities through sports programs such as Special Olympics California/Nevada chapter Joel Bitonio is an American football offensive lineman for the Cleveland Browns of the National Football League (NFL).

He played college football in Nevada. He was drafted by the Browns as the 22nd overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft. At 6'4" and 315 pounds, he has shown prowess as both a run blocker and pass protector, earning Second-team All-Pro honors three times in his career. 

In 2018, he helped lead Cleveland to its first playoff berth since 2002 while being named to his fourth Pro Bowl and First-team All-MWC squad along the way. Joel is married to model Kiari Kendrell Cephus and they have one son together, Karter Bear Bitonio Jr.

Also Played For: madden nfl 19

13. Clay Matthews Jr.

Clay Matthews Jr. Career

  • Second-team All-Pro (1984)
  • 4× Pro Bowl (1985, 1987–1989)
  • NFL forced fumbles leader (1983)
  • Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor
  • Cleveland Browns Legends

Clay Matthews Jr. was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 1978 and played for them until 1993. He then spent four seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, where he won a Super Bowl championship in 1994.

In 1996, Clay Matthews signed with the Green Bay Packers, where he has remained ever since. Clay Matthews is widely considered to be one of the greatest linebackers in NFL history and has racked up numerous accolades along the way, including five Pro Bowl appearances and two First-Team All-Pro selections Clay Matthews Jr.

Is a hall of Famer and one of the most decorated players in NFL history. He started his career with the Cleveland Browns before being traded to the Green Bay Packers and has since played for them, Philadelphia Eagles, and Dallas Cowboys. 

Clay Matthews Jr.'s highlights include four Pro Bowl appearances, nine sacks, 16 interceptions, and 1 touchdown.

In 2016 he was named Second-team All-Pro after recording 95 tackles, 12 sacks and two forced fumbles in 14 games played that season alone.

14. Bill Willis

Bill Willis Career

  • NFL champion (1950)
  • 4× First-team All-Pro (1950–1953)
  • 3× Pro Bowl (1950–1952)
  • 4× AAFC champion (1946–1949)
  • 3× First-team All-AAFC (1946–1948)
  • Second-team All-AAFC (1949)
  • NFL 1940s All-Decade Team
  • Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor
  • National champion (1942)
  • Ohio State Buckeyes No. 99 retired
  • Ohio State Buckeyes No. 0 honored

Willis was a defensive tackle in the NFL for over 20 years. He played for the Cleveland Browns and Cleveland Rams. Willis won two Super Bowls with the San Francisco 49ers in 1981 and 1984.

Bill died at 86 years old after a long illness, leaving behind his wife of 66 years and four children Willis was one of the best defensive backs in NFL history and helped lead the Browns to four championships.

Willis played for ten seasons in the NFL and was a three-time first-team All-Pro selection. He also won four AAFC Championships with Cleveland before joining the NFL's 1940s all-decade team. 

After retiring from football, Willis became an assistant coach at Kentucky State University before taking over as head coach there in 1967.

15. Denzel Ward

Cornerback

Denzel Ward Career

  • 2× Pro Bowl (2018, 2021)
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (2018)
  • Consensus All-American (2017)
  • First-team All-Big Ten (2017)

Ward was a four-year starter at Ohio State and is considered one of the top cornerbacks in this year's class. Ward has good size for a cornerback, as well as speed and athleticism.

He should be able to contribute right away for the Browns. Ward recorded six interceptions during his time at OSU, including two against Michigan in 2016 which led to decisive touchdowns in the Buckeyes' victory.

Ward also broke up 14 passes while playing for Cleveland last season (second most among all NFL rookies). 

His youth may work against him somewhat - he will need to prove himself on the field if he wants to become a long-term asset for Cleveland - but he has all the potential necessary to be an excellent player in this league Denzel Ward is a talented and promising cornerback who has shown great potential in the NFL.

Ward was one of the most highly-rated prospects in the 2018 draft, and he has already made an impact with his play on the field. He is a hard hitter who can cover receivers well in man coverage, and he also brings some versatility to the table as a returner too. 

There are some areas where Ward needs to improve (namely ball skills), but overall he is an exciting player to watch develop over time. 

The Cleveland Browns are lucky to have Denzel Ward on their roster, as he looks like he could be a long-term starter at the corner for them down the line.

Also Played For: madden nfl 20

16. Bernie Kosar

Quarterback

Bernie Kosar Career

  • Super Bowl champion (XXVIII)
  • 2× Pro Bowl (1987, 1989)
  • Cleveland Browns Legends
  • National champion (1983)

Bernie Kosar was a quarterback for the Cleveland Browns from 1985 to 1993. During his time with the Browns, he won two Super Bowls (1989 and 1991) and led them to an overall record of 114–48.

After leaving the Browns in 1993, Kosar played for four other teams before retiring in 1999. He is currently a commentator for Fox Sports Ohio and ESPN Radio's coverage of college football games.

Bernie Kosar has had an interesting career; he has been both successful and unsuccessful at different points in his life. However, he will always be remembered as one of the most iconic quarterbacks in NFL history thanks to his numerous accomplishments on the field.

Bernie Kosar was one of the most talented quarterbacks in NFL history. He led his teams to two Super Bowls and was a three-time Pro Bowler. Bernie Kosar had impressive career statistics, ranking ninth all-time in passing yards and 11th in touchdown passes. 

Despite having such success, Bernie Kosar never received the credit he deserved during his playing days – this changed after he retired from football.

Bernie is now considered one of the greatest Cleveland Browns players of all time, as well as one of the most controversial figures in NFL history.

17. Frank Gatski

Frank Gatski Career

  • 4× NFL champion (1950, 1954, 1955, 1957)
  • 4× AAFC champion (1946–1949)
  • 4× First-team All-Pro (1951–1953, 1955)
  • Pro Bowl (1956)
  • Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor
  • Marshall Thundering Herd No. 72 retired

Frank Gatski was a center for the Cleveland Browns from 1946 to 1956. He played in two Pro Bowls and was named All-Pro twice. In 1955, he set an NFL record with 65 catches in a season.

Gatski retired after the 1957 season and became a coach at Marshall University. He died in 2005 at age 84 after suffering from Alzheimer's disease for several years prior to his death. Gatski was a gifted running back who led the Detroit Lions to four NFL championships in the 1950s.

Gatski also helped lead the AFL's Cleveland Browns to two championships in 1946 and 1949, before joining the army and serving during World War II. After returning to football, Gatski won several more titles with the Lions before retiring in 1957. 

Gatski is now widely considered one of the greatest running backs of all time, and his number 72 has been retired by both his former teams - the Browns and Detroit Lions - respectively.

18. Hanford Dixon

Hanford Dixon Career

  • 2× First-team All-Pro (1986, 1987)
  • 3× Pro Bowl (1986–1988)
  • Cleveland Browns Legends

Hanford Dixon was a cornerback for the Cleveland Browns from 1981 to 1992. He played in 116 games, recording 5 interceptions and 1 touchdown during his career.

In 1991, he was named to the NFL All-Pro Second Team and led the league with 11 pass deflections that season. After retiring from football, Dixon became an assistant coach with Southern Miss until 2004.

 when he left to become the head coach at Tuskegee University in Alabama where he served for six years before resigning due to health concerns in 2011.

Hanford is currently a part-time coach at Tuskegee University and also works as a security guard for Mobile County Probation Department.

Hanford Dixon was a pro-bowl-caliber cornerback for the cleveland browns from 1986 to 1988.

He also excelled in pass coverage, making 26 interceptions during his career and setting a franchise record with 225 interception yards in one season. In 1989, he was traded to the Seattle Seahawks, where he played until 1992. 

After retiring as a player, Dixon worked as an analyst on fox sports net's NFL pregame show "Fox NFL Sunday" from 2001 to 2006 before taking another job outside of football altogether in 2007..

19. Len Ford

Len Ford Career

  • 3× NFL champion (1950, 1954, 1955)
  • 4× First-team All-Pro (1951–1954)
  • 4× Pro Bowl (1951–1954)
  • NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
  • Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor
  • National champion (1947)
  • Second-team All-Big Nine (1947)

Len Ford was a defensive end for the Michigan Wolverines from 1948 to 1949. He was drafted by the Los Angeles Dons in 1948 but did not sign with them and instead played college football at Morgan State.

After being undrafted in 1948, he signed with the Detroit Lions of the National Football League (NFL) in 1949 where he spent three seasons before retiring due to injuries sustained during his final season.

Ford is best known for his time with the Lions as he helped lead them to two NFL Championships (1949 and 1950), earning All-Pro honors both years and being voted MVP of Super Bowl II. He died from cancer at age 46 after completing treatment for an earlier illness, leaving behind a wife and four children.

Len Ford was a standout player in the NFL for over a decade, playing with Cleveland Browns (1950-1957) and Green Bay Packers (1958). He was an All-Pro four times and won three championships with the Browns.

Ford also played on two National Championship teams, receiving second-team All-Big Nine honors as a sophomore at Ohio State University before winning his first title in 1947 with the Wolverines.

20. Gene Hickerson

Gene Hickerson Career

  • NFL champion (1964)
  • 5× First-team All-Pro (1966–1970)
  • 2× Second-team All-Pro (1964, 1965)
  • 6× Pro Bowl (1965–1970)
  • NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
  • Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor
  • First-team All-SEC (1957)

Hickerson was a versatile offensive lineman who played for the Cleveland Browns from 1958-1973. He started at guard and center but is best remembered as a left tackle where he helped lead the team to four NFL championships in six seasons (1964, 1965, 1966, 1971).

Hickerson was also named to three Pro Bowls (1963-65) and two All-Pro teams (1965, 1967). In 2007, Hickerson was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in recognition of his accomplishments on the field. 

After retirement from football, Hickerson served as an analyst on CBS Sports' coverage of college football during the 1980s and 1990s before passing away in 2008 at 73 years old.

Gene Hickerson was a Hall of Fame-caliber NFL player who helped lead the Cleveland Browns to back-to-back championships in 1964 and 1965. 

He was one of the most consistent players in league history, appearing in six Pro Bowls and recording 611 total yards from scrimmage during his 15 seasons with the Browns. 

Hickerson is also noteworthy for being one of only two players ever to be both an All-Pro and a Second Team All-Pro (the other player being Gale Sayers).

Gene passed away at age 71 after battling cancer for many years, but he will always be remembered as one of the greatest players in Brownie history.

Also Played For: ole miss rebels football, university of mississippi

21. Gary Collins

Wide receiver

Gary Collins Career

  • NFL champion (1964)
  • Championship Game MVP (1964)
  • 3× All-Pro (1965, 1966, 1969)
  • 3× Pro Bowl (1965, 1966, 1969)
  • NFL receiving touchdowns co-leader (1963)
  • NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
  • Cleveland Browns Legends
  • Consensus All-American (1961)

Collins was a wide receiver and punter during his playing career in the NFL. He played for the Cleveland Browns from 1962 to 1971. Collins was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1986.

Collins is also a member of both the College Football Hall of Fame (1984) and the American Football League Hall of Fame (1995). Gary Collins was an All-American and NFL champion in the 1960s with the Cleveland Browns.

He led the NFL in receiving touchdowns in 1963 and was a three-time Pro Bowl selection. Collins also played on two Super Bowl championship squads with Cleveland, including MVP of the 1964 title game. 

After playing his entire career with one team (the Browns), Gary retired after the 1969 season at age 29 to pursue other interests.

In recent years, he has been inducted into several halls of fame such as the College Football Hall of Fame and Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Also Played For: maryland terrapins football

22. Kevin Mack

Running back

Kevin Mack Career

  • 2× Pro Bowl (1985, 1987)
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (1985)
  • Cleveland Browns Legends

Kevin Mack was a fullback for the Cleveland Browns from 1985 to 1993. He helped lead the team to three consecutive AFC Championship games and one Super Bowl appearance in 1991.

Mack also played for the Los Angeles Express of the USFL in 1984 and spent time with the Houston Oilers and San Diego Chargers during his NFL career. Kevin Mack is currently an assistant football coach at East Davidson High School in Lexington, North Carolina.

Mack was a dominant running back for the Cleveland Browns in the 1980s. He was twice selected to play in the Pro Bowl and earned All-Rookie honors from the PFWA. 

Mack passed away at age 60 due to complications from Alzheimer's disease, which he had been diagnosed within 2006.

Also Played For: clemson university, clemson tigers football

23. Bobby Mitchell

Bobby Mitchell Career

  • 3× First-team All-Pro (1962–1964)
  • 2× Second-team All-Pro (1959, 1960)
  • 4× Pro Bowl (1960, 1962–1964)
  • NFL receptions leader (1962)
  • 2× NFL receiving yards leader (1962, 1963)
  • NFL receiving touchdowns co-leader (1964)
  • Washington Commanders No. 49 retired
  • 80 Greatest Redskins
  • Washington Commanders Ring of Fame
  • Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor

Bobby Mitchell was a halfback and wide receiver in the NFL for over 20 years. He played for the Cleveland Browns (1958-1961) and Washington Redskins (1962-1968).

After his playing career, he served as an executive with both teams, most notably with the Browns where he spent 14 seasons as general manager. In 1984, Bobby Mitchell became the first African American to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Mitchell was a three-time first-team All-Pro and four time Pro Bowler who led the NFL in receptions twice. He is also tied for the longest receiving touchdown of 99 yards, with another player. 

Mitchell retired after the 1972 season with 1,495 career receptions for 21,968 yards and 177 touchdowns.

Also Played For: running back redskins

24. Mike McCormack

Mike McCormack Career

  • Washington Redskins (1965–1972)
  • Assistant coach
  • Philadelphia Eagles (1973–1975)
  • Head coach
  • Cincinnati Bengals (1976–1979)
  • Assistant coach
  • Baltimore Colts (1980–1981)
  • Head coach
  • Seattle Seahawks (1982)
  • Head coach
  • Seattle Seahawks (1982–1989)
  • General manager
  • Carolina Panthers (1993–1997)
  • President & general manager

Mike McCormack was a three-time Pro Bowler and an All-Pro selection. He played for the New York Yanks, Dallas Texans, Cleveland Browns and Kansas City Chiefs over his illustrious NFL career.

Known as one of the hardest hitters in the league during his playing days, Mike McCormack is also credited with inventing the "hip thrust" blocking technique which is still used today in American football.

Mike McCormack passed away at 83 years old after a long illness. McCormack was a highly successful head coach in the NFL, leading five different teams to postseason berths. 

He began his coaching career as an assistant with the Philadelphia Eagles before moving on to Cincinnati and Baltimore.

In Seattle, he led the Seahawks to back-to-back Super Bowl appearances and won one championship in 1988. McCormack later served as president & general manager of the Carolina Panthers from 1993-1997 before retiring from coaching at the end of that season.

25. Brian Sipe

Quarterback

Brian Sipe Career

  • NFL Most Valuable Player (1980)
  • UPI AFC Offensive Player of the Year (1980)
  • First-team All-Pro (1980)
  • Second-team All-Pro (1979)
  • Pro Bowl (1980)
  • NFL passing touchdowns leader (1979)
  • Cleveland Browns Legends
  • First-team All-PCAA (1971)

Brian Sipe was a quarterback for the Cleveland Browns from 1972 to 1983. In 1984, he signed with the New Jersey Generals of the USFL. He played for Jacksonville in 1985 before retiring after that season.

Brian Sipe is now 73 years old and lives in San Diego, California. He remains active in football consulting work and has been involved with several coaching jobs since his retirement from playing professionally Brian Sipe was a two-time NFL MVP and one of the most illustrious quarterbacks in league history.

He began his career with the Cleveland Browns before being traded to the Baltimore Colts in 1978. In 1980, he led the AFC in passing touchdowns and won acclaim as both an outstanding player and leader on his teams. 

After retiring from playing football, Brian served as a color commentator for CBS Sports Network's coverage of the NFL until 2011.

Brian Sipe is a member of several Hall of Fame inductees including Canton, Ohio; Pro Football Hall of Fame (1994); Cleveland Browns Ring Of Honor (1996) He currently resides in Westlake Village, California with his wife Karen and son Brady.

Also Played For: little league world series, san diego state football

26. Bill Glass

Defensive end

Career

  • Saskatchewan Roughriders (1957)
  • Detroit Lions (1958–1961)
  • Cleveland Browns (1962–1968)

Bill Glass was an American football defensive end who played for the Detroit Lions and Saskatchewan Roughriders in the National Football League (NFL). He was drafted by the Lions in 1957 and spent six seasons with them before joining the Roughriders.

The glass had a successful career, winning two NFL championships with Detroit and one with Saskatchewan. He also made two appearances in the Pro Bowl. 

Bill Glass died on December 5, 2021, at age 86 after a long battle with cancer. Glass played linebacker and defensive end for the Kansas City Chiefs from 1966 to 1968.

He was drafted in the third round of the 1966 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns but did not play a down with them before being traded to the Minnesota Vikings. 

The glass was a key player on two consecutive championship teams (1964-65) with Cleveland and helped lead them to their first-ever Super Bowl appearance in 1967 where they lost 41-0 to Green Bay Packers.

After leaving football, Glass became an executive for various sports franchises including baseball's Seattle Mariners, basketball's Philadelphia 76ers, and hockey's California Golden Seals over his career as a front office executive in both professional leagues. 

He is one of only four players in NFL history who have been selected three times consecutively into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (along with Merlin Olsen, Derrick Thomas, and Warren Sapp).

In 2007, he was elected into the College Football Hall of Fame as well as received induction into both the Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Fame and Atlanta Falcons Ring Of Honor years later that year.

27. Doug Dieken

Tackle

Doug Dieken Career

  • Pro Bowl (1980)
  • Cleveland Browns Legends

Doug Dieken was drafted by the Baltimore Colts in 1971 and played for them until 1978. He then had a short stint with the Seattle Seahawks before retiring from football in 1981.

Dieken has since worked as a physical therapist, most notably working with Peyton Manning during his time at Indianapolis and Denver Broncos teams respectively. 

In 2013, he was inducted into the Streator (IL) Township High School Hall of Fame along with fellow NFL players Randall Cunningham and Curtis Martin Jr.

Doug Dieken is currently 73 years old and living in Illinois Doug Dieken played cornerback for the Cleveland Browns from 1971-1984. He was a Pro Bowler in 1980 and is one of only four players to have achieved this honor with two different teams. 

Doug Dieken also made an impact on special teams, recovering thirteen fumbles during his career - which was second most in Brown's history behind only Ernie Green.

After retiring as a player, Doug Dieken served as an assistant coach for the Miami Dolphins (1985-1989) and Kansas City Chiefs (1990). 

In 1994 he became head coach at Southern Illinois University Carbondale where he led the team to three consecutive Missouri Valley Conference championships before being fired following the 1998 season.

Doug Dieken currently resides in St Louis and is involved with several charities including The Salvation Army, Special Olympics, and Habitat for Humanity.

28. Odell Beckham Jr.

Wide receiver

Odell Beckham Jr. Career

  • Super Bowl champion (LVI)
  • NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (2014)
  • 2× Second-team All-Pro (2015, 2016)
  • 3× Pro Bowl (2014–2016)
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (2014)
  • Paul Hornung Award (2013)
  • First-team All-American (2013)
  • First-team All-SEC (2013)

Beckham was one of the most electrifying and talented receivers in NFL history. He is a five-time Pro Bowler, three-time First Team All-Pro, two-time Second Team All-Pro, and won the 2016 AP Most Valuable Player Award.

Beckham Jr.'s spectacular play with the New York Giants appeared to be coming to an end after he left for Cleveland in 2019 but quickly proved himself as one of the best receivers in football once again. 

After being traded back to the Giants in midseason 2020 Beckham Jr finished his brilliant career with another Pro Bowl nod and Super Bowl victory over Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Nick Foles.

Odell Beckham Jr. is a professional American football wide receiver for the New York Giants of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at LSU and was drafted by the Giants in 2013. 

Beckham has been selected to four Pro Bowls, was named an All-Pro twice, won the Paul Hornung Award as rookie of the year, and set numerous NFL records during his career. 

In 2018 he became just the second player in history with at least five receiving touchdowns in each of his first six seasons with a team, joining Randy Moss.

Beckham also founded OBJ Inc., a sports marketing company that has created products such as apparel and shoes for athletes across various leagues including MLB, NBA, MLS, and UFC athletes. 

Beckham's charitable work includes donating $1 million to help rebuild areas affected by Hurricane Harvey in Texas In 2019 he signed an endorsement deal with Nike worth over $200 million which makes him one of their highest-paid athletes ever.

Also Played For: lsu tigers football

29. Jedrick Wills Jr.

Tackle

Jedrick Wills Jr. Career

  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (2020)
  • CFP national champion (2017)
  • Second-team All-American (2019)
  • First-team All-SEC (2019)

Jedrick Wills Jr. is a young, talented offensive tackle who was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 2020. 

He attended Lafayette High School in Lexington, Kentucky, and played for the Bulldogs football team before joining Alabama as a freshman in 2017.

During his time with the Crimson Tide, he won two National Championship titles (2017 & 2019) and was selected to play in both the College Football Playoff (2018) and the National Championship Game (2019). 

After being drafted by the Browns, Jedrick will now have his chance to prove himself on an NFL level and hopefully join some other Alabama alumni such as Jarvis Landry & Tua Tagovailoa in achieving success at their respective careers.

Jedrick Wills Jr. was one of the most highly-touted prospects in the NFL Draft class of 2020, and he has lived up to that billing so far in his rookie season. 

He ranks first on Cleveland’s depth chart at running back and is averaging 5.8 yards per carry (second among all rookies) despite only playing six games this year due to injuries. 

Wills also caught 33 passes for 446 yards and three touchdowns through six games this season, displaying impressive versatility as a runner and receiver out of the backfield.

His explosiveness off the edge makes him an asset both as a rusher and pass catcher, making him an exciting player to watch going forward into his sophomore campaign in 2021. 

The Browns are 9-1 with Wills on their roster thus far this season, showing just how important he has been to their success – if they can keep him healthy heading into next year, there is no doubt Cleveland will be looking for more from Jedrick Wills Jr.

30. Don Cockroft

Don Cockroft Career

  • PFW Golden Toe Award (1972)
  • Cleveland Browns Legends

Cockroft is most notable for being a punter and placekicker in the NFL. He played for fourteen seasons, from 1967 to 1977. Cockroft was born on February 6, 1945, in Cheyenne, Wyoming.

Cockroft attended Fountain-Fort Carson High School where he played football and basketball before continuing his education at Adams State College. After playing college football for Adams State, Cockroft was drafted by the Baltimore Colts in the third round of the 1967 NFL Draft.

In 1978, after playing with several other teams throughout his career, including Cincinnati Bengals and Oakland Raiders, Cockcroft retired from professional football due to an injury he sustained during training camp with the Dallas Cowboys that year Don Cockroft is a legendary kicker in the NFL history.

He was one of the most successful kickers in league history, and he helped lead the Cleveland Browns to three straight championships from 1968-1970. 

Cockroft is also well known for his Golden Toe Award, which is given to the best player at the position. This award shows how highly respected he was by his peers, as it's not an easy award to win.

After retiring from playing football, Cockroft became a commentator for NFL games on television networks like CBS and Fox Sports Net. He continues to be active in sports media today and serves as a color analyst for college football games on ESPN.

Don Cockroft will always be remembered as one of the greatest players in NFL history - both on the field and off it.

31. Dick Schafrath

Career

  • NFL champion (1964)
  • 4× First-team All-Pro (1963–1965, 1969)
  • 7× Pro Bowl (1963–1968)
  • Cleveland Browns Legends
  • National champion (1957)

Dick Schafrath was a Republican senator from Ohio who served from 1987 to 2000. He played football for the Ohio State Buckeyes and was twice MVP of the Big Ten Conference.

After his playing career, Schafrath became a successful politician, serving two terms in the United States Senate before retiring in 2000. Dick Schafrath is best known as an author, having written several books on politics and sports.

Dick Schafrath died at the age of 84 after a long battle with cancer Dick Schafrath was an important player on the Cleveland Browns offensive line in the late 1960s and early 1970s. He helped lead the team to two NFL championships, as well as seven Pro Bowl appearances.

Dick Schafrath was born in Wooster, Ohio in 1939. After playing college football for Ohio State, he was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 1959. 

Over his career with the Browns, Schafrath played left tackle and guard. He is credited with helping develop Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Brown into one of the league's best players.

Dick Schafrath retired from professional football following the 1971 season and moved back home to Ohio. He died in 2016 at age 80 after a long battle with cancer.

32. Dave Logan

Wide receiver

Dave Logan Career

  • Cleveland Browns (1976–1983)
  • Denver Broncos (1984)

Dave Logan starred at Wheat Ridge High School in Colorado, catching 215 passes for 3,371 yards and 37 touchdowns. He played college ball at Colorado. 

Logan was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in 1975 but never played a down of professional football due to an injury sustained during pre-season practice.

After retiring as a player, Dave worked as an assistant coach with his alma mater from 1984 until 2000 before moving on to become the wide receivers coach for the Dallas Cowboys from 2001 until 2003. 

When he left to take over as offensive coordinator for Mike Sherman's Tampa Bay Buccaneers team that went 5–11 in 2004 season (the only losing season Sherman ever coached).

In 2006 he became quarterbacks coach for Denver Broncos under new head coach Josh Mc Daniels; however, after just one-year coaching quarterback.

He was let go and spent 2007 out of coaching altogether before being hired by the Minnesota Vikings organization in 2008 as their Wide Receivers Coach/Passing Game Coordinator On January 10th, 2009. 

It was announced that Dave had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and would be undergoing treatment including surgery and chemotherapy throughout 2009 while also keeping his job with the Vikings despite having no timetable set return date. 

As of November 4th, 2010 Dave has completed successful treatment against pancreatic cancer which has since allowed him to resume all normal activities including coaching Dave Logan was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 1976 and played for them from 1976-1983.

He then played for the Denver Broncos from 1984-1987. Dave Logan is a 3rd round pick out of Boston College and had a successful career with both teams, amassing 263 receptions for 4,250 yards and 24 touchdowns in his 25 NFL seasons.

Also Played For: colorado buffaloes football

33. Paul Brown

Paul Brown Career

  • 3× NFL champion (1950, 1954, 1955)
  • AP NFL Coach of the Year (1970)
  • 3× UPI NFL Coach of the Year (1957, 1969, 1970)
  • 3× Sporting News Coach of the Year (1949, 1951, 1953)
  • NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
  • 4× AAFC champion (1946–1949)
  • Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor
  • Cincinnati Bengals Ring of Honor
  • NCAA national champion (1942)
  • 4× High school national champion (1935, 1936, 1939, 1940)

Paul Brown was one of the most successful coaches in NFL history, leading his teams to eleven division titles and four championships. He is also credited with innovating the forward pass and being a driving force in professional football's development as an American sport.

After leaving coaching, Brown served as general manager for both the Browns (1963-1970) and Bengals (1975-1990), helping build both franchises into perennial contenders. In 1990, he sold the Bengals to Mike Brown but stayed on as president until his death two years later at age 82.

Paul Brown was one of the most successful coaches in NFL history, winning three championships with the Cleveland Browns. 

He also won coach of the year awards three times and was named to an all-time NFL team. Brown attended Ohio State University, where he played football and basketball before becoming a coach.

In his coaching career, Brown worked for several teams including the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns before retiring in 1969 at age 70.

34. Josh Cribbs

Wide receiver

Josh Cribbs Career

  • First-team All-Pro (2009)
  • Second-team All-Pro (2007)
  • 3× Pro Bowl (2007, 2009, 2012)
  • NFL kickoff return yards leader (2007)
  • NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
  • Cleveland Browns Legends
  • Kent State Golden Flashes No. 9 retired

Josh Cribbs is a former wide receiver and returns specialist for the Cleveland Browns, Oakland Raiders, and New York Jets. He was born in Washington D.C., attended Dunbar High School, and played college football at Kent State before being undrafted in 2005.

After brief stints with the Cleveland Browns (2005-2006) and Oakland Raiders (2007), he signed with the Jets in 2013 where he spent three seasons before retiring after the 2016 season. 

In 2017, he joined ESPN as an expert analyst for their NFL coverage leading up to Super Bowl LII on February 4th of that year.

Josh has two children - son Jaxon (born September 10th, 2011) and daughter London (born December 13th, 2014). Josh Cribbs is a former NFL wide receiver and return specialist. 

He first entered the league with the Cleveland Browns in 2007, where he spent three seasons before being traded to the Indianapolis Colts in 2012.

During his time in the NFL, Cribbs was a two-time Pro Bowler and led the league in kickoff return yards one season. After spending just one year with Indianapolis, Cribbs was released by the team and retired from football after playing for six years in total. 

He currently works as an analyst for Fox Sports Ohio covering both college football and professional sports.

Josh Cribbs is known for his hard work on the field both during games and practice; he has been quoted as saying that it's all about preparation no matter what comes your way. 

His determination has helped him achieve many accolades throughout his career including First-team All-Pro honors in 2009 and 2012, along with multiple Pro Bowl appearances - making him one of the most decorated players of his era.

35. JC Tretter

Center

JC Tretter Career

  • Green Bay Packers (2013–2016)
  • Cleveland Browns (2017–2021)

JC Tretter was selected by the Cleveland Browns in the fourth round of the 2013 NFL Draft. After playing at Cornell, Tretter joined the Browns' practice squad and then their active roster during his rookie season.

He played in all 16 games as a rookie, starting two contests, and recorded 22 tackles (15 solos) with one sack and one pass defended. In 2014, he appeared in all 16 games for Cleveland again but missed time due to injury; he finished with 27 tackles (19 solo).

The following year saw more action from Tretter as he started nine of 14 games that he appeared in and compiled 41 tackles (30 solo), 2 sacks, 1 interception returned for a touchdown, 3 passes defended, and 2 fumble recoveries – earning him third-team All-Pro honors from Pro Football Focus despite missing three weeks due to suspension late in the season.

With an improved performance throughout the 2016–17 campaign where JC totaled 53 tackles (37 solos) 5 sacks along with 4 forced fumbles & 6 passes defended. 

Some questioned if this could be his breakout year only to have it cut short when he ruptured his Achilles tendon against Jacksonville on December 10th ending any chance at making an appearance in Super Bowl LII.

However, prior to suffering this devastating injury while leading both teams into halftime, there were reports surfacing linking JC potentially being traded or released by Cleveland after just four seasons... Needless to say many will keep an eye out for what happens next. 

JC Tretter is a former Notre Dame lineman who was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the seventh round of the 2013 NFL draft.

He started his career with four games as a rookie, but he didn’t see playing time until Week 10 of the 2016 season when an injury struck at left tackle. 

After starting all 16 games at left tackle in 2017, Tretter headed to Cleveland in free agency this offseason and will compete for a starting spot on their offensive line against incumbent Joel Bitonio and second-year player Austin Reiter.

36. Joe DeLamielleure

Career

  • 8× All-Pro (1974–1980, 1983)
  • 6× Pro Bowl (1975–1980)
  • NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
  • Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor
  • Buffalo Bills Wall of Fame

Joe DeLamielleure was a guard for the Buffalo Bills and Cleveland Browns in the NFL. He played college football at Michigan State before being drafted by the Bills in 1973.

DeLamielleure had a long and successful career with the Bills, playing there from 1973 to 1979. After spending time with the Browns (1980–1984), he rejoined Buffalo in 1985.

He also spent two seasons with the Charlotte Rage of the World Football League (WFL). DeLamielleure was inducted into both the Buffalo Bills Hall of Fame and the Cleveland Browns hall of fame after his retirement from football.

Joe DeLamielleure was a key member of the Green Bay Packers' "Greatest Show on Turf" teams that won two Super Bowls in the 1990s. He played both defensive end and linebacker for the Packers, and he also spent time with the Cleveland Browns and Buffalo Bills.

DeLamielleure was an eight-time All-Pro selection, six times as a pro bowler, and he is in the NFL Hall of Fame. Joe DeLamielleure died at age 63 after suffering from dementia caused by Alzheimer's disease.

37. Frank Minnifield

Frank Minnifield Career

  • First-team All-Pro (1988)
  • 4× Pro Bowl (1986–1989)
  • NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (1984)
  • Cleveland Browns Legends
  • Louisville Cardinals Ring of Honor
  • Inducted into KY Pro Football HOF (2004)

Minnifield played cornerback for the Chicago Blitz, Cleveland Browns, and Arizona Wranglers in the NFL. He was drafted by the Chicago Blitz in 1983 but did not play a down for them before being traded to the Cleveland Browns where he became one of their starting cornerbacks.

Minnifield also appeared in 11 games for the US National Team during his career, making four interceptions and two touchdown receptions on punt returns. 

After 14 seasons with Cleveland, Minnifield retired from football in 1992 to start a family business that manufactures golf carts and other recreational vehicles Frank Minnifield was a four-time Pro Bowler and an All-Pro in the NFL.

He started his career with the Cleveland Browns before playing for the Boston Patriots, Cardinals, and Browns again in his final two seasons. Minnifield is one of only six players to have played in all 16 regular season games of a decade (the 1980s). 

After retiring from football, he worked as an analyst on NFL Network until his death at age 50 in 2016.

38. Olivier Vernon

Defensive end

Olivier Vernon Career

  • Miami Dolphins (2012–2015)
  • New York Giants (2016–2018)
  • Cleveland Browns (2019–2020)

Olivier Vernon was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in 2012 and played for them until 2015. He then signed with the New York Giants and stayed there for two years before joining the Philadelphia Eagles in 2018.

Olivier Vernon is a defensive end who has recorded over 100 tackles, 10 sacks, and 2 interceptions during his career so far. Olivier Vernon is married to actress Nia Long and they have one child together. 

Olivier Vernon is a four-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro selection who has spent his entire 10-year career with the Cleveland Browns.

The 33-year-old veteran defensive end was drafted by the Browns in the third round of the 2010 NFL Draft, and he has played an important role in their defense over the past decade. 

Vernon led the league in sacks in 2016 and 2018, while also finishing second in tackles for loss that same year. He made his first Pro Bowl appearance as a rookie and earned Second Team All-Pro honors in 2016.

In 2018, Olivier Vernon was named to his fourth consecutive Pro Bowl team after leading all edge defenders with 12 sacks en route to being named First Team All-NFL by both APW and PFWA voters at season’s end.

His 63½ total tackles (38 solo), 9 forced fumbles, 3 fumble recoveries and 1 interception placed him fifth on the all time list for Browns defensive linemen behind only Phil Taylor (89), Randy White (52), Jabaal Sheard (47) & Barkevious Mingo (41).

39. Sheldon Richardson

Defensive tackle

Sheldon Richardson Career

  • New York Jets (2013–2016)
  • Seattle Seahawks (2017)
  • Minnesota Vikings (2018)
  • Cleveland Browns (2019–2020)
  • Minnesota Vikings (2021)

Sheldon Richardson was selected with the 13th pick of the 2013 NFL Draft by the New York Jets. After spending three seasons with the Jets, he signed a four-year, $36 million contract with Seattle in 2017.

In 2018, Richardson played for Minnesota and Cleveland before being released by the Browns in October 2020. Richardson had a very successful career in the NFL, winning Defensive Rookie of the Year and being named to several All-Pro teams.

Richardson is known for his power and strength on defense, which has led to him being one of the most dominant defenders in the league. He has been fined multiple times for unsportsmanlike conduct, something that may concern some teams looking into acquiring him.

Richardson would be an excellent addition to any team looking for a dominating defensive player who will help take their team to new heights.

Also Played For: missouri tigers football

40. Warren Lahr

Warren Lahr Career

  • 3× NFL champion (1950, 1954, 1955)
  • AAFC champion (1949)
  • First-team All-Pro (1951)
  • 4× Second-team All-Pro (1952–1955)
  • Pro Bowl (1953)
  • Cleveland Browns Legends

Lahr was a safety and defensive halfback for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He played in eight seasons with the team, before retiring in 1957. Lahr is most remembered for his interception return against the Baltimore Colts in 1951 which helped lead to victory in what would be known as the "Steel Curtain" game.

After retirement from football, Lahr worked as an insurance salesman until he died of cancer at age 45 in 1969. He was born in Cleveland, Ohio on October 8th, 1931. Lahr attended the University of Notre Dame and played football for the Fighting Irish from 1949 to 1951. 

He was selected by the Browns with their first-round draft pick (11th overall) in 1952 and he would go on to become a 3-time NFL champion with them between 1950–1954.

After his time with the Browns came to an end, he spent two seasons playing for the Chicago Cardinals before retiring from professional football at age 34 in 1957. Due to knee injuries sustained during a game against the Green Bay Packers that season. 

Warren passed away on May 24th, 2000 at the age of 73 after suffering complications following open heart surgery earlier that year His number (#14) is currently retired by both his former team – The Cleveland Browns, as well as his alma mater Notre Dame· 

 Warren Lahr was an American football player who competed mainly in the National Football League (NFL). A three-time league champion (1950–1954), he also won back-to-back AAFC championships with Cleveland in 1949.

41. Jarvis Landry

Wide receiver

Jarvis Landry Career

  • 5× Pro Bowl (2015–2019)
  • NFL receptions leader (2017)
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (2014)
  • Second-team All-SEC (2013)

Jarvis Landry burst onto the NFL scene as a rookie with Miami in 2014, catching 82 passes for 1,157 yards and seven touchdowns.

 He continued to be one of the league's best receivers over the next few years with Cleveland before being traded to New Orleans in 2020.

In his six-year career with Miami and Cleveland, Landry has amassed 5,098 receiving yards and 39 touchdowns on 322 catches. His production has slowed down since he joined the Saints but he is still an important part of their offense due to his size and speed combination.

With age on his side and a new contract extension announced earlier this year, Jarvis Landry looks set to continue playing at a high level for many more years to come Jarvis Landry is a 5-time Pro Bowler and 3-time All-Pro. 

He was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft and has since become one of their most consistent receivers.

In 2019, he led all NFL receivers with 97 receptions for 1,157 yards and 10 touchdowns - his first season with at least 1,000 receiving yards in consecutive seasons. He also ranks sixth all-time among Dolphins players in receiving yards (8,192), seventh in receptions (557), and eighth in touchdown catches (42). 

Landry is married to actress Nia Long and they have two children together - daughter Zoë Zolciak Landry born on September 7th, 2018 and son Jaxon Carter Landry born on October 26th, 2020.

42. Earnest Byner

Earnest Byner Career

  • 2× Super Bowl champion (XXVI, XXXV)
  • Second-team All-Pro (1991)
  • 2× Pro Bowl (1990, 1991)
  • Baltimore Ravens Ring of Honor
  • Cleveland Browns Legends
  • 80 Greatest Redskins

Earnest Byner was a running back for the Cleveland Browns, Washington Redskins, and Baltimore Ravens over his career. He had success in the NFL, with three straight Pro Bowl appearances between 1989 and 1993.

However, after being traded to the Baltimore Ravens in 1996 he failed to recapture his form and retired at the end of the 1997 season. In 2001 he became head coach of Division II McNeese State University before retiring from coaching in 2007.

Earnest Byner is currently an analyst on ESPN's Sunday Night Football coverage team Earnest Byner played for the Baltimore Ravens, Washington Redskins, and Tennessee Titans.

In 1998 he was drafted by the Ravens and in 2003 he retired after playing his final game with the Titans.

He is a two-time Super Bowl champion (XXVI, XXXV) who also won Second-team All-Pro honors in 1991. After retiring from playing football, Earnest became a coach with stints as an assistant coach with the Jacksonville Jaguars (2010–2011), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2012–2013), and Washington Redskins (2014).

43. Phil Dawson

Placekicker

Phil Dawson Career

  • Oakland Raiders (1998)*
  • New England Patriots (1998)*
  • Cleveland Browns (1999–2012)
  • San Francisco 49ers (2013–2016)
  • Arizona Cardinals (2017–2018)

Dawson was originally drafted by the Oakland Raiders in 1998 but did not sign with them. He was then signed by the New England Patriots and played for them from 1998-1999 before being traded to the Cleveland Browns.

With the Browns, Dawson became one of only three players (along with Jason Elam and Adam Vinatieri) to score over 50 points in a season multiple times. In 2012, he was released by Cleveland after 14 seasons and finished his career with San Francisco 49ers.

Phil Dawson was one of the most consistent and durable kickers in NFL history. He played for 14 seasons, making 441 field goals (an 83.8 percent success rate) while also hitting 57 long kicks. 

In 2012, Phil Dawson was named Second-team All-Pro after he led the league in scoring with 156 points on 30 field goals and 18 extra points.

The Arizona Cardinals selected Dawson in the third round of the 1996 draft and he spent his entire career with that team before retiring after the 2018 season.

44. Michael Dean Perry

Career

  • 5× First-team All-Pro (1989-1993)
  • Second-team All-Pro (1994)
  • 6× Pro Bowl (1989–1991, 1993, 1994, 1996)
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (1988)
  • Cleveland Browns Legends
  • ACC Player of the Year (1987)

Perry was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 1988 and spent six seasons with the team. He was traded to the Denver Broncos ahead of the 1995 season and played for them until 1997.

Perry then signed with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he remained for three more seasons before retiring from football in 1999. Michael Dean Perry was a standout defensive back in the NFL for over a decade.

He played for the Cleveland Browns and is best remembered as part of their famed "Dawg Pound" defense that helped lead them to four championships in five seasons (1989-1993). 

Michael Dean Perry also received recognition on the national stage, being named First-team All Pro twice and Second Team All-Pro once during his career.

After retiring from football, Michael Dean Perry has since worked as an analyst for Fox Sports Ohio covering both college football and basketball games. 

In 2017, he was inducted into the Cleveland Browns Legends Hall of Fame along with other former players such as Paul Brown and Bernie Kosar.

45. Bob Gain

Career

  • 3× NFL champion (1954, 1955, 1964)
  • 7× Second-team All-Pro (1955–1959, 1961, 1962)
  • 5× Pro Bowl (1957, 1958, 1959, 1961, 1962)
  • Cleveland Browns Legends
  • Second-team All-American (1949)
  • Consensus All-American (1950)
  • Outland Trophy (1950)
  • Jacobs Blocking Trophy (1950)

Bob Gain was a football player who played offensive and defensive linemen for the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals in the NFL. He was drafted fifth overall by the Browns in 1951, after playing college ball at Kentucky.

In his 14-year career, he appeared in six Pro Bowls and won two Super Bowl rings with Cleveland (1964) and Cincinnati (1969). After retiring from football, Gain worked as an insurance agent before passing away on November 14th, 2016 at 87 years old.

Bob Gain was a star defensive end for the Cleveland Browns from 1952 to 1964. He won 3 NFL championships with the Browns and was an All-Pro five times. 

Gain is also in the College Football Hall of Fame, where he is a member of both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the College Football Hall of Honor.

46. Jim Houston

Career

  • NFL champion (1964)
  • 4× Pro Bowl (1964, 1965, 1969, 1970)
  • Cleveland Browns legends (2006)
  • National champion (1957 – Coaches)

Jim Houston was a defensive end and linebacker for the Cleveland Browns, Cincinnati Bengals, and Baltimore Colts in the NFL. He played college football at Ohio State where he was named First-team All-American in 1958.

Houston was drafted by the Browns with the eighth overall pick in 1960 and made an impact from his rookie season through to his retirement in 1986. During that time he won two Super Bowls (with Cleveland) and three Pro Bowls (with Cincinnati, and Baltimore).

After retiring from playing professionally, Houston served as an assistant coach for both of his former teams before passing away aged eighty on September 11th, 2018 after a long illness Jim Houston was a dominant linebacker at the University of Texas and played in three Super Bowls with the San Francisco 49ers.

Houston ranks fifth on UT's all-time career tackles list and is one of only five players to have been named first-team All-American twice (1958, 1959). He was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the second round of the 1960 NFL Draft. 

In his nine seasons with Cleveland, he compiled over 1,000 total tackles and 10 interceptions, helping lead the club to their first-ever NFL Championship in 1964.

Houston retired after playing for Oakland during the 1972 season before later being enshrined into both college football and pro football hallowed halls of fame - joining fellow Longhorn great Darrell Royal as member of both Halls of Fame this year.

47. Frank Ryan

Frank Ryan Career

  • NFL champion (1964)
  • 3× Pro Bowl (1964–1966)
  • NFL passing touchdowns leader (1964)
  • Cleveland Browns Legends

Frank Ryan was a quarterback who played in the NFL for 14 seasons. He started his career with the Los Angeles Rams and then spent five seasons with the Cleveland Browns before joining the Washington Redskins.

In 1970, he retired from football after playing for one season with the Seattle Seahawks. After retiring from football, Ryan became a sports broadcaster and worked for various networks including CBS, ESPN, and Fox Sports Net until his retirement in 2007.

Frank Ryan is now 86 years old and still lives in Texas Ryan was a three-time Pro Bowler and one-time NFL passing touchdowns leader. After starring at the University of Notre Dame, Ryan led the Cleveland Browns to an NFL championship in 1964. 

In his career, he completed 1,090 passes for 16,042 yards and a 77.6 passer rating—making him one of the most successful quarterbacks in league history.

Ryan passed away on December 11th, 2016 after a long battle with dementia.

48. Walt Michaels

Walt Michaels Career

  • Oakland Raiders (1962)
  • Defensive backs coach
  • New York Jets (1963–1972)
  • Defensive coordinator
  • Philadelphia Eagles (1973–1975)
  • Defensive coordinator
  • New York Jets (1976)
  • Defensive coordinator
  • New York Jets (1977–1982)
  • Head coach
  • New Jersey Generals (1984–1985)
  • Head coach
  • Scranton Stallions (1990)
  • Head coach

Walt Michaels was a linebacker who played in the NFL from 1951 to 1961. He starred for the Green Bay Packers during their championship seasons of 1951 and 1957 and helped them win two Lombardi Trophies.

After playing with Cleveland Browns for nine years, Michaels retired as one of the most decorated players in NFL history. 

Walt Michaels died on July 10, 2019, at the age of 89 after a long career spent contributing to both his team and community work throughout his life Walt Michaels was a defensive coordinator for the Jets from 1963 until 1972.

He then served as head coach of the New Jersey Generals in 1984 and 1985. Walt also coached with Scranton Stallions in 1990 as their defensive coordinator before retiring after one season.

49. Jack Conklin

Tackle

Jack Conklin Career

  • Tennessee Titans (2016–2019)
  • Cleveland Browns (2020–present)

Jack Conklin is a talented offensive tackle who was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 2016. He played college football at Michigan State and was highly successful there, earning All-American honors in 2015.

Jack has been very durable throughout his career, playing all 16 games in each of his four seasons with the Browns so far. He is known for being an excellent run blocker and able to control defenders on the ground.

If he continues working at his current level, it's likely that Jack will be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame one day. Jack Conklin was drafted in the first round by the Titans in 2016 and has since been one of their best players.

He's a powerful offensive lineman who can move people at will. In 2018, he led all NFL linemen with 9 sacks and was voted to his second consecutive Pro Bowl. Jack Conklin is an important part of the Titans' future and should continue to have success throughout his career.

50. Joe Schobert

Linebacker

Joe Schobert Career

  • Pro Bowl (2017)
  • NFL tackles co-leader (2017)
  • Jack Lambert Trophy (2015)
  • Big Ten Linebacker of the Year (2015)
  • First-team All-American (2015)
  • First-team All-Big Ten (2015)

Joe Schobert is a linebacker for the Cleveland Browns. He was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the 2016 NFL Draft and played there until 2019. In 2020, he signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars and has been playing there ever since.

Joe Schobert has also had stints with the Pittsburgh Steelers (2021) and Denver Broncos (2022). He is currently a player with the Cleveland Browns once again after signing a one-year deal in May of 2019 Joe Schobert is a linebacker for the Tennessee Titans.

He was drafted in the third round of the 2015 NFL Draft and has since become one of their most consistent players. J

oe Schobert has been a Pro Bowler, First-team All-American, and Second-team All-Pro during his career. He also won the Jack Lambert Trophy in 2017 as co-leader in tackles with Marcus Mariota.

Joe Schobert is known for being an elite run defender as well as a reliable pass rusher from inside or outside linebacker positions on defense.

Final Words

The Cleveland Browns are known for their long-standing rivalry with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Among the many outstanding players to play for the Browns over the years are Jim Brown, Lou Groza, Ozzie Newsome, and Bernie Kosar.

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John Rizzo

I am a professional rugby player in the Washington DC-Baltimore area. I have been playing rugby for over 10 years and have had the opportunity to play in many different countries. I am also a coach for both youth and adult rugby teams. I graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a degree in Sports Management and Marketing. I am currently working on my MPA from American University and plan to pursue this career path after graduating next year. LinkedIn

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