74-year-old former Packers fullback John Brockington passes away
The Green Bay Packers’ fourth-best all-time rusher in terms of career yards, John Brockington, was a former All-Pro fullback who passed away. He was seventy-four.
During his tenure with the Packers (1971–1977), Brockington amassed 5,024 yards in rushing.Only Ahman Green (8,322 yards from 2000–09), Jim Taylor (8,207 yards from 1958–66), and Aaron Jones (5,284 yards from 2017–present) have amassed more yards rushing while playing for the Packers.
In his first three seasons, he broke the record for most rushing yards by an NFL player by rushing for over 1,000 yards every time.
In addition, Brockington played with the Kansas City Chiefs for a portion of the 1977 season. He concluded his career with 5,185 yards of rushes. He has four touchdown catches and thirty touchdown runs.
In the 1971 draft, Brockington—a Brooklyn, New York native—was chosen by the Packers with the ninth overall choice out of Ohio State.
In Brockington’s debut season with Green Bay, he set an NFL rookie record with 1,105 yards gained through rushes. In addition to winning NFL offensive rookie of the year, he was chosen an All-Pro.
In 1972, he ran for 1,027 yards and contributed to the Packers’ NFC Central championship. In 1973, Brockington gained 1,144 yards via rushing.
From 1971 to 1973, Brockington was selected for three consecutive Pro Bowls.
At the end of his career, Brockington rushed for 5,185 yards. He has four touchdown catches and thirty touchdown runs. In 1977, he played 10 games with the Kansas City Chiefs and one with the Packers in his final season.
Packers President/CEO Mark Murphy released a statement in which he said, “The Packers family was heartbroken to hear about the demise of John.” John was a captivating player to watch due to his strong sprinting style, making him one of the greatest runners of his time. Over the years, fans have warmly welcomed John back to Lambeau Field, cherishing the division title from 1972 as well as the moments of brilliance he brought during the team’s less prosperous seasons.
“I was pleased to get to know John during his follow-up trips to Green Bay, and I held him in high regard for his efforts to promote organ donation via the John Brockington Foundation. He bequeaths an amazing legacy. We offer our sympathies to his family, friends, and spouse, Diane.”
