The NFL world was struck with some unfortunate news regarding John Brockington.
Brockington, who spent six seasons as a fullback with the Green Bay Packers and was the first NFL player to rush for 1,00 yards more in his first three seasons passed away on Friday, the team announced. He was 74.
Brockington starred with the Packers, where he earned two First-Team All-Pro selections in 1971 and 1973 and three Pro Bowl selections from ’71-73. He was also named the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in ’71, as he rushed for a total of 1,105 yards and averaged 5.1 yards per carry in 14 games.
In his first three seasons with Green Bay, he rushed for 3,276 yards and averaged 4.3 YPC. At the time of his retirement, Brockington had the second most rushing yards (5,024) in Packers franchise history. Now, he ranks fourth in all-time rushing yards, behind Ahman Green, Jim Taylor and Aaron Jones.
The NFL world mourned his death on Friday.
Packers President/CEO Mark Murphy released a statement through the team. It read:
“The Packers family was saddened to hear about the passing of John. One of the great runners of his era, John was an exciting player to watch with his powerful running style. Fans enthusiastically welcomed John back to Lambeau Field over the years, fondly remembering the 1972 division championship as well as the bright spots he provided in the less-successful seasons.”
John Brockington’s rushing and MacArthur Lane’s blocking were the power behind the Packers’ first division title since the Lombardi years. So many of these great Packers that fell between the Super Bowl years sustained the franchise. https://t.co/jc0CkbqDHp
— Sam (@samhuppert) March 31, 2023
No one wanted to tackle legendary Green Bay Packer running back John Brockington. RIP pic.twitter.com/p4KIS1j12L
— Steve Palec (@stevepalec) March 31, 2023
I got to meet John Brockington at a Vets For Valor golf outing in 16. He was so kind & fun. My dad had told me he was his favorite player when he was a kid. When I told him,his face lit up in such a smile!
I hope his family is wrapped in comfort & peace. 💚💛 RIP, legend. pic.twitter.com/JAcB6BbfPc— Kimmer (@kvonyborg) March 31, 2023
John Brockington has passed away.
The bruising runner was one of the brightest spots for the Green Bay Packers in the 1970s.
He was the first back in NFL history to rush for 1000+ yards in each of his first three seasons.
We send our thoughts to his friends and family.
RIP pic.twitter.com/wFuStzV2K9
— PackersHistory.com (@PackersHistory1) March 31, 2023
A true Packers legend. RIP. https://t.co/QBQYIMp0Kc
— Aaron Nagler (@AaronNagler) March 31, 2023
