Marion Motley

Marion Motley (born June 5, 1920, in Leesburg, Georgia, died June 27, 1999) was a former American Football fullback who played for the Cleveland Browns and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Related Topics:
June 5 - 1920 - Leesburg, Georgia - June 27 - 1999 - American Football - Fullback - Cleveland Browns - Pittsburgh Steelers

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Motley attended college at South Carolina State University and University of Nevada and after college, Motley joined the United States Navy. Motley planned on going back to college to get a degree, but the Cleveland Browns offered him a job. He started his pro football carrer in 1946, when the Browns were part of the AAFC.

Related Topics:
South Carolina State University - University of Nevada - United States Navy - 1946 - AAFC

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When the AAFC ended in 1950, Motley already was the league's career rushing leader at 3,024 yards. In the 1950 season he led the league in rushing with 810 yards on 140 carries, averaging nine or ten carries a game, due to Hall of Famer Otto Graham in the backfield. But Motley was an outstanding pass blocker and played linebacker on defense, which was uncommon at the time.

Related Topics:
1950 - Otto Graham

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But in Motley's last four season's in professional football, he was suffering with injuries. He finally quit before the 1954 season. He soon returned and played in 1955 with the Steeler, but after a few games he left due to injuries.

Related Topics:
1954 - 1955

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After retiring he scouted players for the Browns, and wanted to coach. But at the time, racism was a big role in jobs and he was turned down most offers. In 1968 Motley was voted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Emlen Tunnell of the New York Giants was the first black player to achieve the honor, making Motley the second.

Related Topics:
1968 - Pro Football Hall of Fame - Emlen Tunnell - New York Giants

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