NFL community mourns death of Hall of Fame running back Jim Brown

The NFL community mourned the loss of the legendary Cleveland Browns running back Jim Brown Friday afternoon after his family announced the news of his death. He was 87 years old.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell released a statement calling Brown “one of the most dominant players to ever tread a sports field” and also highlighted his work as a “cultural figure who helped promote change”.

“During his nine years NFL career, which coincided with the civil rights movement here at home, he became a precursor and role model for athletes involved in social initiatives outside of their sport.

NFL LEGEND JIM BROWN DEAD AT 87

“He inspired other athletes to make a difference, especially in the communities in which they lived.”

Brown’s wife, Monique, released a statement confirming that the Pro Football Hall of Famer died Thursday night at his home in Los Angeles.

Cleveland Browns guard Jim Brown (32) scampers for a 13-yard gain in the first period of an NFL matchup with the Philadelphia Eagles. Brown scored four touchdowns and broke his own single-game rush mark by gaining 242 rushing yards. His old mark was 237. (Getty Images)

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A native of New York, Brown played his entire career in Cleveland, where he won three league MVPs and was selected for the Pro Bowl in every season he played. He was a five-time NFL running leader and led the Browns to their last NFL championship in 1964.

The NFL community took to social media to share their condolences and memories of Brown, including Hall of Fame running back Thurman Thomas.

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Brown retired in his prime to pursue a career in acting and activism. He appeared in over 30 movies, including “Any Given Sunday” and “The Dirty Dozen.”

The Associated Press contributed to this report.