Cleveland Browns Legend, Hall of Fame...

January 25, 1924, in Martins Ferry, Ohio, Louis Roy "Lou" Groza became an enduring figure in professional football history, primarily associated with the Cleveland Browns. While he briefly attended Ohio State University, his college career was interrupted by service in the U.S. Army during World War II. However, it was upon his return that his legendary journey truly began, not in Columbus, but in the burgeoning professional football landscape of Cleveland.  

College Career:

After a standout high school career in multiple sports, Groza enrolled at Ohio State University. Initially a tackle, his time with the freshman football team was cut short by his enlistment in the U.S. Army. Serving as a surgical technician during World War II, Groza's football aspirations remained alive thanks to correspondence and even footballs sent by his former Ohio State coach, Paul Brown. Following his discharge, instead of returning to finish his degree immediately, Groza followed Brown to Cleveland to join the newly formed Cleveland Browns of the All-America Football Conference (AAFC). He did eventually complete his degree from Ohio State during his professional career.

Road to the Pro Game:

In 1946, Groza signed with the Cleveland Browns, a decision that would define his professional life. He played his entire career for the Browns, both in the AAFC (1946-1949) and the NFL (1950-1959, 1961-1967). Initially, he was a two-way player, excelling as an offensive tackle and a placekicker. His size and surprising speed for his position made him a formidable presence on the offensive line, earning him All-NFL honors as a tackle multiple times. After a back injury sidelined him for the 1960 season, Groza returned solely as the team's kicker, solidifying his legacy at that position.  

Football Legacy:

Lou "The Toe" Groza is revered as one of the greatest offensive tackles and placekickers in football history. His 21 seasons with the Cleveland Browns were marked by consistent excellence and leadership. Groza was instrumental in the Browns' unprecedented early success, helping them win four AAFC championships and four NFL championships, including the Browns' first NFL title in 1950, decided by his game-winning field goal. His kicking prowess revolutionized the game, establishing placekicking as a crucial offensive weapon. Groza was the NFL's all-time leading scorer when he retired and held numerous kicking records. His versatility and longevity earned him immense respect, and he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1974. The Lou Groza Award, given annually to the best college placekicker, is named in his honor, a testament to his lasting impact on the sport. His number 76 is retired by the Cleveland Browns.  

Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats:

4x NFL Champion (1950, 1954, 1955, 1964)  
4x AAFC Champion (1946-1949)  
4x First-team All-Pro (1952-1955)  
2x Second-team All-Pro (1956, 1957)  
Second-team All-AAFC (1946)
9x Pro Bowl (1950-1955, 1957-1959)  
NFL Scoring Leader (1957)
AAFC Scoring Leader (1946)
NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
NFL 50th Anniversary All-Time Team
Cleveland Browns Ring of Honor  
Cleveland Browns No. 76 retired  
Pro Football Hall of Fame (Class of 1974)  
Career NFL Stats: 268 games played, 234 Field Goals Made (405 attempted), 810 Extra Points Made (833 attempted), 1,608 career points.