Len Ford
Inducted:
1976
Player Stats
6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)
245 lb (111 kg)
Born:
February 18, 1926
Washington, D.C., U.S.
Died:
March 14, 1972
Detroit, Michigan, U.S.
Position:
Defensive End
College:
Morgan State
Michigan
Len Ford was one of the most feared and physically dominant defensive ends in NFL history, helping redefine how the position was played. A former college tight end, Ford began his pro career with the AAFC’s Los Angeles Dons before joining the Cleveland Browns in 1950. With his rare combination of size, speed, and aggression, he became a key force on a Browns defense that helped lead the team to three NFL championships.
Ford had a relentless motor, often overwhelming blockers and disrupting plays in the backfield before they could develop. Though double-teamed constantly, he still found ways to pressure quarterbacks and force turnovers. He was also one of the first African American stars to thrive in a prominent defensive role in pro football.
Ford’s toughness and impact left a lasting legacy, and his contributions to one of the NFL’s earliest dynasties earned him a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1976.
Ford's Awards and Honors
- 3× NFL champion (1950, 1954, 1955)
- 4× First-team All-Pro (1951–1954)
- 4× Pro Bowl (1951–1954)
- NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
- Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor
- National champion (1947)
NFL Records
- One of the First Dominant Pass Rushers in NFL History
- First African American Defensive Star in Pro Football
- Member of the NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
- Contributed to 3 NFL Championships in 6 Seasons
- 13 Career Interceptions as a Defensive End
NFL Teams
Los Angeles Dons (1948–1949)
Cleveland Browns (1950–1957)
Green Bay Packers (1958)
NFL Draft:
1948: undrafted
Number Worn:
50, 53, 80, 83
NFL Stats
Games Played:
103
Receiving Touchdowns:
20 (early career as end)
Receptions:
133
Interceptions:
13
Fumble Recoveries:
8
Receptions:
67
Receiving yards:
1,175
Championships:
3× NFL Champion (1950, 1954, 1955)
