Marion Motley, a trailblazer in professional football, played a vital role in breaking racial barriers in the sport. Born on June 5, 1920, in Leesburg, Georgia, and raised in Canton, Ohio, Motley attended McKinley High School, where he first showcased his athletic prowess. He later played college football at South Carolina State College and the University of Nevada, where his skills on the field began to attract attention.

Motley's professional career began when he joined the Cleveland Browns in the All-America Football Conference (AAFC) in 1946. Under the guidance of coach Paul Brown, Motley became one of the first African American players to integrate professional football in the modern era, alongside teammates Bill Willis, and later, players like Kenny Washington and Woody Strode in the NFL. His entry into the league marked a significant step towards racial integration in professional sports.

On the field, Motley was known for his exceptional size, speed, and strength, which made him a formidable fullback and linebacker. Standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing around 238 pounds, he was a powerful runner who could break tackles and gain significant yardage. His ability to block and protect the quarterback was equally impressive, making him an invaluable asset to the Browns' offensive line.

During his time with the Browns, Motley helped the team achieve remarkable success. The Browns dominated the AAFC, winning the championship every year from 1946 to 1949. When the AAFC merged with the NFL in 1950, Motley continued to excel, leading the league in rushing yards that year with 810 yards on 140 carries, an average of 5.8 yards per carry. His performance was instrumental in the Browns' victory in the 1950 NFL Championship Game against the Los Angeles Rams.

Motley's career with the Browns lasted until 1953. Over the years, he accumulated impressive statistics, including 4,720 rushing yards and 31 touchdowns. His contributions to the team were recognized when he was named to the Pro Bowl in 1950 and 1951 and earned All-Pro honors in 1948, 1950, and 1951.

In 1955, Motley briefly came out of retirement to play for the Pittsburgh Steelers, but injuries limited his effectiveness, and he retired for good after that season. Despite the challenges he faced, including racial discrimination and physical injuries, Motley's legacy in professional football remains significant.

Marion Motley was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1968, becoming one of the first African American players to receive this honor.

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