Jerome Brown: The death that sent shockwaves through the NFL
A Florida phenomenon
Born and raised in Brooksville, Florida, Jerome Brown starred as a high school defensive tackle before becoming a force at the University of Miami. He helped lead the Hurricanes to a national title in 1983.
First-round draft
In 1987, the Philadelphia Eagles selected Brown ninth overall. His blend of size, speed, and aggression made him one of the most feared defensive linemen in the NFL.
Larger than life
Brown was a leader in the locker room: loud, funny, and fiercely competitive. Teammates viewed him as the soul of the Eagles' defense during their early '90s peak.
A fateful June afternoon
On June 25, 1992, a promising career was snuffed out when Brown died in a car crash in Brooksville. He lost control at the wheel of a Corvette, also killing his 12-year-old nephew.
Shockwaves through the NFL
His sudden death stunned the league. Just 27, Brown had been entering his prime and was expected to anchor the Eagles' defense for years to come.
Homage to 99
The Eagles kept Brown’s locker untouched during the 1992 season. Players wore black armbands in his memory and honoured him with moments of silence before games.
A huge impact in a short time
In five NFL seasons, Brown totaled 29.5 sacks and forced three fumbles. He was known not just for stats, but for altering offensive schemes entirely.
The teammate he mentored
Reggie White, the Eagles' other defensive star, credited Brown with pushing him harder. Their partnership on the field was feared, and had the potential to succeed for many more seasons.
