Ohio is a hub of talent in football since the beginning of the NFL. From legends like Jim Brown and Ozzie Newsome to more modern stars like Antonio Brown and Joe Thomas, Ohio is home to many of the top NFL players of all time. We are going to tell you about the best NFL players from Ohio. But first, a bit of history.
Things to know about Ohio’s NFL history
Ohio has a rich past in the field of NFL teams. Ohio hosts the Cleveland Browns, Cincinnati Bengals, and Dayton Triangles.
- The Cleveland Browns are Ohio’s first NFL team. They joined it in the year 1946 as a founding part of the All-America Football Conference (AAFC). They were awarded 4 AAFC championships before joining the National Football League (NFL) in 1950. The team has enjoyed some success during its time with the NFL with eight division titles as well as three conference championships. However, they haven’t been able to win an NFL championship since 1964.
- The Cincinnati Bengals came into existence in 1970 as part of the AFL-NFL merger, and are based located in Ohio since the merger. They’ve had two Super Bowl appearances in 1981 and 1988, however both times they lost. Although they haven’t won any championships, however, the Bengals have been able to win two division titles in the years 1981 and 1990. The team currently plays in Paul Brown Stadium in Cincinnati.
- Dayton Triangles were one of the 14 original NFL teams when the league first began playing in 1920. They played in Dayton, Ohio until 1930 when they relocated to Brooklyn, New York, and later changed their nickname to Brooklyn Dodgers. The Triangles played home games in Triangle Park (now Bryant Hebb Stadium). They were awarded an NFL championship while playing in Ohio in 1929 but did not make any more post-season appearances until they left.
Best NFL Stars in The History of Ohio
- Jim Brown: Regarded as one of the greatest athletes from Ohio, Cleveland native Jim Brown thrilled the fans for nine seasons due to his speed and strength. He was the league’s top player in rushing 8 times, was part of three championship teams, and is still holding league records to this day.
- Joe Thomas: Born in Brookhaven, Ohio, Joe Thomas quickly became a household name when he signed with the Cleveland Browns in 2007. He was picked to 9 Pro Bowls and was a six-time All-Pro selection, which made him one of the most talented offensive linemen to ever play.
- Antonio Brown: Antonio Brown is from Miami University, and has been one of the best receivers in the NFL since joining the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2010. He has been the leader in players in the NFL with receiving yards two times and has been an eight-time Pro Bowler.
- Ozzie Newsome: He was born in Muscle Shoals, Alabama but lived in Ohio, Ozzie Newsome made his name as one of the most renowned tight ends in the game. Three times a Pro Bowler, Newsome was a player for 13 seasons with Cleveland and Baltimore as well as being part of the Ravens winning the Super Bowl in 2000.
- Chuck Noll: Born in Cleveland, Chuck Noll coached the Pittsburgh Steelers for 23 years which led the team through 4 Super Bowl titles. He also received 2 NFL coaches of the year honors and was a pro football Hall of Inductee.
Conclusion
Ohio has been an amazing source of talent in football since the very beginning of the NFL.
Who knows what stars of the future could emerge from it soon? It’s only time to find out. However, one thing is for certain Ohio’s tradition that has produced NFL stars will be strong for the foreseeable future.
No matter who you choose to root for ensure you show your gratitude for Ohio’s NFL players! Go Browns! Go Bengals! Go Steelers! Victory is right shortly. Let’s bring the Super Bowl title home soon! Go Ohio!
