Mark Madden's Hot Take: Jim Brown remembered as best football player ever

Few sports have a player who unequivocally can be declared the game’s best ever.

Hockey produces a debate between Wayne Gretzky, Mario Lemieux and Bobby Orr. With basketball it’s LeBron James and Michael Jordan. In baseball, options are plentiful: Hank Aaron, Barry Bonds, Willie Mays, Babe Ruth, Ted Williams, etc.

In football, it’s one name: Jim Brown. He’s the best football player ever.

Brown died Thursday. He was 87.

I never saw Brown play. But his greatness was so evident, it can be concluded from stats, awards and YouTube.

Brown only played nine NFL seasons, retiring at 30 because he could make more money acting in movies. (What would “The Dirty Dozen” be without Brown?)

Brown’s career spanned 1957-65. He was nine-time All-Pro, including eight times on the first team. He was three-time MVP. He led the NFL in rushing on eight occasions, becoming the league’s all-time rushing leader. He averaged 5.2 yards per carry. He’s on every all-time team.

Brown was the ultimate weapon in an era where running the ball was paramount. He was big (6-foot-2, 232 pounds), fast and strong. Brown broke an opponent’s body and spirit, and it didn’t take long.

He won just one NFL championship because … Cleveland. Brown played his entire career with the Browns.

Brown was a Black activist during a volatile era. He was also a brilliant lacrosse player. His life included some regrettable incidents.

But when it comes to football, everyone else pales by comparison. It’s not even a discussion.

RIP Jim Brown, the best football player ever.