At this point, Ozzie Newsome is better known by many as the architect of much of the success the Baltimore Ravens have enjoyed over the past 30 years. But back in the day, Newsome was a pretty good tight end.
In fact, Newsome was such a good player coming out of Alabama that legendary Crimson Tide coach Bear Bryant called him “the greatest end in Alabama history.”
“A total team player,” Bryant said, “fine blocker, outstanding leader, great receiver with concentration, speed, hands.”
After being drafted 23rd overall by the Cleveland Browns in 1978, Newsome carried that level of play over to the pros. Over 13 years with the Browns, Newsome hauled in 662 catches for 7,980 yards and 47 touchdowns.
Newsome topped 1,000 receiving yards twice and was named to three Pro Bowls. Newsome was also the first player in NFL history to log at least one reception in 150 consecutive games, and at the time of his retirement, he held the career record among tight ends for both receptions and receiving yards.
Newsome never played in a Super Bowl, but he was part of seven postseason runs in Cleveland. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1999.
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