Gene Hickerson dead at age 73

Hickerson led the way for three Hall of Fame running backs one last time during his Enshrinement in August 2007.  L-R: Leroy Kelly, Bobby Mitchell, Gene Hickerson (front), Jim Brown.

Gene Hickerson, the man who was the lead blocker for three future Hall of Fame running backs, passed away this morning at the age of 73. Hickerson starred at guard for the Cleveland Browns for 15 seasons and was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2007.

“We are saddened to learn about Gene’s passing,” commented Steve Perry, the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s President/Executive Director. “On behalf of all of us at the Hall of Fame, I extend our sympathy to Gene’s family during this difficult time.

“Gene Hickerson’s contribution to this great game will never be forgotten. Certainly he will be remembered for his Hall of Fame career and the fact that he helped pave the way for Hall of Fame runners like Jim Brown, Leroy Kelly and Bobby Mitchell.”

Hickerson was selected as a future draft pick out of Mississippi in the 7th round of the 1957 NFL Draft. He joined Cleveland one year later and quickly became a fixture on the club’s offensive line. He continued to play until the age of 38 before retiring after the 1973 season. At the time he held the Browns record for most consecutive games played (165).

He was named to six Pro Bowls and was an All-NFL pick five consecutive seasons from 1966-1970. Hickerson was also named to the NFL’s All-Decade Team of the 1960s.

 

Related links:
Gene Hickerson's HOF Bio
 Gene Hickerson's Enshrinement Speech Transcript
 Gene Hickerson - Notes & Quotes
Cleveland Browns Team History
Photo Gallery: Gene Hickerson, Class of 2007 

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