John Brockington, the former All-Pro Green Bay Packers running back, passed away on Friday in San Diego, the team announced. He was 74.
“The Packers family was saddened to hear about the passing of John,” Packers president and CEO Mark Murphy said in a statement.
“One of the great runners of his era, John was an exciting player to watch with his powerful running style. Fans enthusiastically welcomed John back to Lambeau Field over the years, fondly remembering the 1972 division championship as well as the bright spots he provided in the less-successful seasons.
I enjoyed getting to know John during his return visits to Green Bay and greatly respected his work in support of organ donation through the John Brockington Foundation. He leaves a wonderful legacy. We extend our condolences to his wife, Diane, and his family and friends.”
Packers' John Brockington played for Green Bay from 1971-77, rushing for 5,024 yards during that stretch, per Associated Press. He was the first running back in NFL history to rush for over 1,000 yards in each of his first three seasons, and is fourth all-time on the Packers rushing list.
Only Ahman Green (8,322), Jim Taylor (8,207) and Aaron Jones (5,284) have rushed for more. He finished his storied career with the Kansas City Chiefs in 1977, and an overall 5,185 rushing yards, to go along with 30 touchdown runs and four touchdown grabs.
A former first-round draft pick of the Packers in the 1971 NFL Draft, he set a rookie record with 1,105 yards in his first season in Wisconsin, earning All-Pro honors and NFL offensive rookie of the year, per AP.
The Ohio State product earned three straight Pro Bowl selections from 1971-73, and was inducted into the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame in 1984.
Prayers out to the family and loved ones of John Brockington.
Follow Us
Subscribe