NFL champion Frank Ryan dies at 87

Frank Ryan, the acclaimed quarterback who led the Cleveland Browns to their last NFL title in 1964, passed away on Monday at the age of 87, as announced by the team.

Ryan’s remarkable career left an indelible mark on the gridiron, achieving success not only as a star quarterback but also as a distinguished mathematician.

In the 1964 NFL championship game, Ryan’s stellar performance saw him throw for 206 yards and three touchdowns, guiding the Browns to a triumphant 27-0 victory over the then-Baltimore Colts.

This victory stands as a historic milestone, occurring two seasons before the inception of the Super Bowl.

The city of Cleveland endured a championship drought until LeBron James led the Cavaliers to the 2016 NBA title.

Despite the Browns never making a Super Bowl appearance, the team recently secured a playoff berth, marking only their second postseason appearance since 2002.

Frank Ryan’s impact on the Browns was substantial, boasting a record of 52-22 in his seven seasons with the team.

Over his 13-season NFL career, which included stints with Washington and the Los Angeles Rams, Ryan threw for an impressive 16,042 yards and 149 touchdowns. His versatility was evident as he also contributed 1,358 rushing yards and six touchdowns before retiring in April 1971.

Beyond his athletic prowess, Ryan pursued academic excellence, earning a doctorate in mathematics from Rice University in 1965.

He later served as a teacher at Rice and Case Western Reserve in Cleveland, contributing to the academic community.

Ryan’s post-football career saw him enter the political arena, working for the US House of Representatives in Washington.

His notable achievements include playing a crucial role in establishing the House’s first electronic voting system.

In 1977, Ryan took on roles as both athletic director and math lecturer at Yale University, showcasing his diverse talents and commitment to education.

Frank Ryan’s legacy transcends the boundaries of sports, leaving an indomitable impact on both the NFL and the academic world.

His contributions to football, mathematics, and civic service will be remembered and celebrated by fans and colleagues alike.