Jim Brown, Pro Football Hall of Famer and Civil Rights Activist, Dies at 87

Jim Brown, the Pro Football Hall of Famer who was considered one of the greatest running backs in NFL history and a prominent civil rights activist, died on May 18, 2023, at his home in Los Angeles. He was 87.

The cause of death was not immediately released, but Brown's wife, Monique, said he died peacefully in his sleep.

Brown was born in St. Simons Island, Georgia, in 1936. He attended Syracuse University, where he was a three-time All-American running back. He was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the first round of the 1957 NFL Draft.

Brown played nine seasons with the Browns, leading the league in rushing eight times. He retired from football in 1965 after rushing for 12,312 yards and 106 touchdowns.

Brown was also a prominent civil rights activist during the 1960s. He was a member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). He also spoke out against racism and segregation.

Brown's legacy is one of greatness on the football field and in the fight for social justice. He was a pioneer for African Americans in sports and a role model for generations of athletes.

In addition to his wife, Brown is survived by three children from his previous marriage.

Tributes pour in for Jim Brown

Tributes to Jim Brown poured in from across the sports and entertainment world following his death.

"Jim Brown was one of the most talented and impactful athletes of all time," said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. "He was a dominant force on the field, a powerful voice for social justice, and a true icon. His legacy will live on forever."

"Jim Brown was a legend," said actor and director Spike Lee. "He was a great football player, a great actor, and a great man. He will be missed by all who knew him."

"Jim Brown was a true pioneer," said former President Barack Obama. "He broke down barriers on the field and in the fight for social justice. He was a role model for me and for so many others. His legacy will live on forever."

Jim Brown was a giant among men. He was a great athlete, a great actor, and a great man. He will be missed by all who knew him.