Browns Hall of Famer Gene Hickerson dies at 73

exposition — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 21:42:32 -0000

Let's take a moment from the debate to honor a true great. Former Browns guard Gene Hickerson has passed away at 73. Hickerson blocked for three future Hall Of Famers - Jim Brown, Leroy Kelly, and Bobby Mitchell. Jim Brown called him the greatest downfield blocker of all time, and said this in a statement released by the Browns today:

"We all eventually leave this earth at some time, but I am so glad he was able to leave with his dignity and with the recognition from all of us - his former teammates, the fans and writers - who wanted him to go into the Hall of Fame after waiting so long for that honor. I truly respected him as a player and as a human being."

R.I.P., Gene.

SB Nation User Blog: exposition

Browns Hall of Famer Gene Hickerson dies at 73