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By C.Y. Peters

Carter County sports fans will have the privilege of hearing from one of Tennessee’s football greats, as former University of Tennessee standout and NFL Pro Bowler Eddie Brown will be the guest speaker at the Carter County Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony. The event will take place on Saturday, May 31, at Milligan University, with the doors opening at 5 p.m.

From Jasper to Knoxville
Eddie Brown’s football journey began at Marion County High School in Jasper, Tennessee, where he graduated in 1970. His athletic talents earned him a spot at the University of Tennessee, where he played safety and served as a dangerous punt returner. Brown’s leadership and outstanding play led to his selection as a team captain in 1973. That same year, he received first-team All-America honors from Football News, cementing his place as one of the Volunteers’ greats.

NFL career and rise to stardom
The Cleveland Browns selected Brown in the eighth round of the 1974 NFL Draft. After spending his rookie season and the start of his second year in Cleveland, he was traded to the Washington Redskins in 1975, a move that set the stage for his emergence as one of the NFL’s premier special teams players.

An injury to Washington’s primary return specialist in 1976 gave Brown his opportunity to shine, and he didn’t disappoint. In the season opener, he returned a crucial punt 45 yards to set up a game-winning touchdown in a 19-17 victory over the New York Giants. Two weeks later, his overtime interception against the Philadelphia Eagles helped secure a victory for Washington. That season, Brown led the NFL with 646 punt return yards, the second-highest total in league history at the time. His efforts earned him a spot in the Pro Bowl, an honor he would receive again in 1977.

During his three seasons in Washington (1975–77), Brown was among the league’s most electrifying returners. He set a franchise record by returning 11 punts in a single game in 1977 and finished his tenure with the team as their all-time leader in punt return yards (1,150). That same year, he led the NFL in punt returns with 57 for 452 yards, continuing his dominance as a special teams weapon.

Super Bowl appearance and later career
Brown joined the Los Angeles Rams in 1978 and played two seasons with the team, making a significant impact in their Super Bowl XIV appearance. In the third quarter of the championship game, Brown intercepted a pass, providing a spark for the Rams in their battle against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

After retiring from the NFL in 1979, Brown made a brief return to professional football in the United States Football League (USFL), playing for the Chicago Blitz in 1983 and the Arizona Wranglers in 1984.

A legacy of excellence
Eddie Brown’s football legacy is defined by his versatility, athleticism and ability to perform in crucial moments. His impact on special teams set him apart as one of the most dangerous return men of his era, and his defensive contributions added to his reputation as a game-changer.

As Brown prepares to address the Carter County Sports Hall of Fame on May 31, attendees can expect to hear firsthand about his journey from a small-town athlete to a college and NFL star. His story serves as an inspiration to young athletes, proving that dedication, talent and seizing the right opportunities can lead to greatness. Carter County sports fans won’t want to miss this special evening celebrating sports history and excellence.