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Ross Browner

Defensive End

Inducted 1999

Date of Birth

3/22/1954

Birthplace

Warren, OH

Schools

University of Notre Dame (1973-1973)

University of Notre Dame (1975-1977)

Bio

Ross Browner was one of the most decorated defensive players in the history of the game. He was a four-year starter at defensive end in 1973 and 1975-77. He was unanimous All-America his last two seasons. In 1976, he won the Outland Trophy as the nation's best interior or defensive lineman. In 1977, United Press International named him Lineman of the Year, he won the Lombardi Trophy as the nation's best lineman and the Maxwell as the nation's best player. In a ten-year period, 1970-79, Browner was the only lineman who won the Maxwell. In 1977, he also placed fifth in voting for the Heisman Trophy. Browner stood 6-3 in height, weighed 247, and was quick and powerful. Notre Dame had a 39-7 record in his time that covered 11-0 in 1973, 8-3 in 1975, 9-3 in 1976, and 11-1 in 1977. Notre Dame won national championships in 1973 and 1977. His career statistics show 340 tackles, a school record; ten deflected passes, two blocked kicks. He also scored a touchdown and recorded two safeties. The touchdown came November 1, 1975. He blocked a Navy punt and recovered it in the end zone. His first safety was September 22, 1973, against Northwestern. He blocked a punt, and the ball rolled out of the end zone. The second safety was November 22, 1975, against Miami (Florida). He tackled the Miami quarterback in the end zone. Browner went on to play nine years with the Cincinnati Bengals and one with the Green Bay Packers in the National Football League.