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Ohio State football captain, Cleveland Browns legend dies at 84

Spenser Davis

By Spenser Davis

Published:

Former Ohio State captain and seven-time NFL pro-bowler Dick Schafrath died on Sunday at the age of 84.

The Cleveland Browns, who he played for between 1959-71, announced his passing:

“The Cleveland Browns were saddened to learn of the passing of Dick Schafrath,” the Browns said in a release. “He was a Cleveland Brown and Ohioan to his core. Schafrath’s unmatched work ethic helped establish what it means to be a Cleveland Brown. He was one of the most decorated offensive linemen in team history, earning numerous Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors. He also helped the Browns capture the 1964 NFL Championship and opened holes for three Hall of Fame runners. We send our deepest condolences to his family.”

Schafrath played offensive tackle and was NFL champion in 1964. He went to the Pro Bowl every season from 1963-68 and was also named first team All Pro in four different seasons.

Collegiately, Schafrath played for the Buckeyes in the late 1950s. He was a letter-winner on Ohio State’s 1957 National Championship team and helped lead the Buckeyes to two victories over Michigan. He was a second round pick in the 1959 NFL Draft.

He also later became a member of the Ohio state Senate, serving from 1987-2000.

Here’s some of the reaction to his passing:

Spenser Davis

Spenser is the news manager at Saturday Road and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands.