Cleveland Browns to build statue of legend Jim Brown

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The Cleveland Browns announced this week that they will build a statue of legendary running back Jim Brown outside of FirstEnergy Stadium. The announcement came on Brown’s 80th birthday from owners Jimmy and Dee Haslam.

"“Everyone admires the incredible impact that Jim Brown has made for Cleveland, the Browns and the NFL throughout his lifetime, and we have had the special opportunity to know and learn from his contributions to our team on a personal level, as well. It is only fitting that one of the most iconic professional football players and members of Cleveland and the Browns is commemorated with this statue as he will always be such a permanent fixture in our city.”"

I’m surprised it took this long for the Browns to build a statue to commemorate the man who carried a franchise for nine years and is one of the games all time greats.

Brown was named to nine Pro Bowls and received eight First-Team All-Pro selections.

He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1971 and is the franchise’s all-time rushing leader with 12,312 yards. He rushed for over 1,000 yards in seven of his nine season and never had less than 900 yards rushing a season. His jersey number 32 is also retired by the franchise.

Brown expressed his gratitude towards the Haslam family and the city of Cleveland:

"“It humbles me to be honored in this manner. Dee and Jimmy Haslam, thank you for the respect and love. Your investment in Cleveland is unparalleled. To the fans of the Cleveland Browns, I guess I’ll always be with you – thank you.”"

The Browns will also be looking to add statues of other franchise greats, which could possibly pave the way for someone like Otto Graham or the franchises all time sacks leader Clay Matthews.

The statue will be revealed during the 2016 season’s Browns Alumni Weekend.