Gene Hickerson
Inducted:
2007
Player Stats
6-3, 248lb (190cm, 112kg)
Born:
February 15, 1935
Trenton, Tennessee, U.S.
Died:
October 20, 2008
Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.
Position:
Offensive guard
College:
University of Mississippi
Gene Hickerson was one of the most dominant offensive guards of his era, anchoring the Cleveland Browns’ line from 1958 to 1973. Known for his quickness, strength, and precision blocking, he paved the way for legendary running backs like Jim Brown, Leroy Kelly, and Bobby Mitchell. Hickerson’s pulling guard technique was unmatched, often leading devastating sweeps that became a Browns trademark.
A six-time Pro Bowl selection and five-time First-Team All-Pro, he was a cornerstone of Cleveland’s offense for 15 seasons. Hickerson’s consistency and durability helped him play in 202 consecutive games, a testament to his toughness.
His leadership and skill earned him enshrinement into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2007. Regarded as one of the finest offensive linemen in NFL history, Hickerson left an enduring impact on the game and set a standard for future generations of linemen.
Hickerson's Awards and Honors
- NFL champion (1964)
- 5× First-team All-Pro (1966–1970)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1964, 1965)
- 6× Pro Bowl (1965–1970)
- NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
- Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor
- First-team All-SEC (1957)
NFL Records
- 202 consecutive games played for the Cleveland Browns (1958–1973)
- Blocked for three Hall of Fame running backs
- Part of multiple league-leading rushing offenses
NFL Teams
Cleveland Browns (1958–1960, 1962–1973)
NFL Draft:
1957: 7th round, 78th pick
Cleveland Browns
Number Worn:
66
NFL Stats
Seasons played:
15 (1958–1973)
Games played:
202
Games started:
183
Fumble recoveries:
7
Pro Bowls:
6
First-Team All-Pro:
5