As spring breathes new life into the NFL, the Cleveland Browns have been busy reshaping their roster through free agency, the draft, and schedule releases. But as Mother's Day and Father's Day approach, it's a time to remember those we've lost—including some of the Browns' own gridiron heroes.

While our favorite players may seem superhuman on the field, recent health concerns around Bernie Kosar remind us they're not invincible off it. In 2025, we said goodbye to several former Browns who left their mark on the game. Here's a look back at their legacies.

Joe "Jet" Carollo (Offensive Tackle, 1972–1973)

A second-round pick out of Notre Dame, Carollo was also selected in the 18th round of the AFL draft. Known for his imposing 265-pound frame—one of the largest in the league at the time—he built a reputation as a mean, nasty player. He even moonlighted as a professional wrestler from 1965 to 1967, facing opponents like "Mr. Moto" in Japan. After stints with the Rams and Eagles, Carollo joined Cleveland in 1972, spending two games on the taxi squad before playing all 12 games in 1973. His nickname "Jet" came from missing the team flight home after an away game, forcing him to pay his own way back.

Bill Howton (Wide Receiver, 1959)

Nicknamed "Red Fox" for his fiery red hair and cunning play, Howton spent the bulk of his career with the Green Bay Packers before joining the Browns for the 1959 season. He later played for the Dallas Cowboys, wrapping up a 12-year NFL journey that saw him become one of the league's early deep threats.

As we honor these players, we're reminded that every jersey tells a story—and every season, we carry their legacy forward.