Why are they called the Browns? The question has puzzled football fans for decades. The answer lies in the storied history of Cleveland’s beloved NFL franchise.
The Cleveland Browns joined the NFL in 1950, transitioning from the defunct All-American Football Conference (AAFC). Their name pays homage to the team’s legendary founder and coach, Paul Brown. Arthur B. “Mickey” McBride, the original owner, chose to name the team after Brown, honoring his pivotal role in establishing the franchise.
However, another theory suggests the name “Browns” holds a deeper connection. Some believe that it pays tribute to the iconic heavyweoght boxing champion, Joe Louis, nicknamed the “Brown Bomber.” According to some, Paul Brown vetoed the nickname, and chose Panthers instead. A local businessman informed the team tha he owned the rights to the name Cleveland Panthers. While the exact origina remains debated, the Cleveland Browns’ name has become synonymous with Cleveland’s football pride.
One of the reasons for the demise of the AAFC was due to the success of the Browns. Led by quarterback Otto Graham, the team won all four of the league’s championships from 1946- 1949. Under Paul Brown’s leadership, they captured NFL championships in 1950, 1954 and 1955, solidifying their status as a powerhouse. The iconic orange helmets, devoid of logos, stands as a symbol of Brown’s orginal vision.
Why are They Called the Browns? Tracing the Origins
Prior to the NFL, and even the AAFC, the Cleveland Indians played in the Ohiio league from 1902 to 1903. The Cleveland Bulldogs played in the Ohion League from 1905 to 1919 as well as the American Football League, which would become the National Football League in 1920. Founded in 1936, the Cleveland Rams played in the second American Football League until joining the NFL in 1937. They left for Los Angeles after winnng the NFL championship in 1945. With the Rams departure, Cleveland joined the AAFC.
Even after Brown’s departure in 1963, the team’s winning ways continued. Coached by Blanton Collier, and led by the legendary Jim Brown, they clinched the championship in 1964 and reached the title game in 1965. The question “why are they called the Browns” has become intertwined with their success.
The Dawg Pound
A unique feature to the fans and the city of Cleveland is the Dawg Pound. Originally named for a bleacher sectiion located in the open (east) end of the old Cleveland Municipal Stadium, the current location of the Pound is located in the east end of the new stadium. Clad in orange and brown apparel, they embrace canine-related paraphenalia, celebrating the team’s identity wholeheartedly.
The Cleveland Browns currently play in the American Football Conference (AFC) North Division along with the Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals and Pittsburgh Steelers.
Barry Schustermann
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