Frank Ryan, the last quarterback to lead the Cleveland Browns to an NFL title, died Monday.
He was 87 years old.
His family said he died at a nursing home in Connecticut after battling Alzheimer’s disease.
His family also reportedly said they donated his brain to Boston University’s CTE Center for research because they believe CTE “plays a role in the progression of (Alzheimer’s disease).
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In the 1965 title game, he and Pennsylvania legend Gary Collins scored three touchdowns to help the Browns win 27-0 over the Baltimore Colts.
This was the last title the Browns won.
This team has never been to the Super Bowl.
Ryan also played for the Los Angeles Rams and Washington.
He was named to the Pro Bowl three times and finished his career with 16,042 passing yards, 149 touchdowns, and 111 interceptions.
He led the league in touchdown passes in 1964 and 1966.
After his playing days, he served as athletic director for his 10 years at Yale University.
“We honor the life of the Browns’ iconic and championship-winning quarterback and extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Frank Ryan,” the Browns said in a social media post.
Ta.
