The NFL family is in mourning today after finding out about the tragic loss of a champion who spent nearly a decade in the league. His career was highlighted by a lone championship and countless highlights on the field.
Breaking: NFL Sees Decade-Long Champion Pass Away From Pneumonia
Roger Shoals, who led the Cleveland Browns to their last league title in 1964, has died, according to the team:
According to Roger Shoals’ online obituary posted today by The Philadelphia Inquirer, the former Browns standout passed away on June 30 due to complications from pneumonia in Wynnewood, Pennsylvania. Shoals was 86.
The 6-foot-4, 260-pound Shoals was drafted by the Browns and the AFL’s Dallas Texans (now the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs) in 1961 and 1962, respectively. A Second-team All-ACC at Maryland in 1961, Shoals chose Cleveland over Dallas and turned pro in 1963.
After starting two games in his rookie year, Roger Shoals emerged as a regular player in 1964. He did a phenomenal job blocking for Hall of Famer Jim Brown, who rushed for 1,446 yards and seven touchdowns that year. The Browns went on to beat the Baltimore Colts 27-0 in the NFL Championship Game.
Shoals is survived by his wife of 65 years, Jean, two children, four grandchildren, one sister and two brothers. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Roger Shoals during this difficult time.
After two seasons with the Cleveland Browns, Shoals was traded to the Detroit Lions in 1965. He spent six seasons with an organization that struggled mightily following the infamous Bobby Layne trade to the Pittsburgh Steelers, helping them resurge with a playoff appearance in 1970.
Shoals spent his final season with the Denver Broncos in 1971, starting all 14 games. He flourished in the run-blocking game yet again, helping future Pro Football Hall of Famer Floyd Little win the rushing title with 1,133 yards and six touchdowns.
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