Cleveland Browns

The Cleveland Browns were established in 1946 and named after their first head coach, Paul Brown, a renowned figure in Ohio. Joining the AAFC, the Browns made a mark by winning the league title every year for four years, including an unforgettable 15-0 season in 1948, a first in professional football history. Integrated into the NFL in 1950, the Browns continued their winning streak with a 35–10 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles.

 

The Otto Graham Era

Guided by quarterback Otto Graham and head coach Paul Brown, the Browns reached 10 divisional titles in their first decade and won seven championships across two leagues. Hall of Fame members Graham and Brown defined this era with significant contributions from Lou Groza and Marion Motley, one of the first African Americans in professional football.

 

The Jim Brown Effect

In 1957, the Browns drafted Jim Brown from Syracuse University, who set numerous NFL rushing records during his nine-year career. Though plans to pair him with another extraordinary running back, Ernie Davis, failed due to Davis’s illness, Brown still led the team to one championship victory in 1964.

 

Kardiac Kids: Last-Minute Miracles

After some mediocre seasons in the 1970s, the Browns briefly emerged in 1980 thanks to frequent last-minute heroics. This earned them the nickname “Kardiac Kids.”

 

The Bernie Kosar Era

Drafted in 1985, Ohio native Bernie Kosar guided the Browns to five playoff appearances. Memorable AFC championship losses to the Denver Broncos became known as “The Drive” (1987) and “The Fumble” (1988). This period also saw the creation of the Dawg Pound, a dedicated section of fans in the stadium, exemplifying the loyalty of Browns’ supporters.

 

The Move to Baltimore

The 1990s brought despair when owner Art Modell moved the team to Baltimore in 1996. The Browns’ name, logo, and history remained in Cleveland, and the city was promised a new team. This formed an expansion team in 1999 under local businessman Al Lerner.

 

Struggles and Rebirth

The expansion Browns reached the playoffs in 2002 but soon fell into a downward spiral, becoming one of the worst franchises in the NFL. After an 0–16 record in 2017, a turnaround began in 2018, with rookie quarterback Baker Mayfield leading the team to a 7–8–1 record.

 

A Legacy and a Future

The Cleveland Browns’ rich history is marked by unparalleled early success, the brilliance of legendary players, heartbreaking defeats, and unbreakable fan loyalty. From their undefeated 1948 season to the recent resurgence led by Baker Mayfield, the Browns remain a fascinating story in the NFL.