SAN DIEGO — John Brockington, a former All-Pro guard who ranks fourth on the Green Bay Packers’ career streak list, has died. He was 74 years old.
The Packers announced that Brockington died Friday in San Diego.
Brockington played for the Packers from 1971 to 1977 and rushed for 5,024 yards during that streak. The only players to gain more rushing yards with the Packers are Ahman Green (8,322 from 2000-09), Jim Taylor (8,207 from 1958-1966) and Aaron Jones (5,284 from 2017-present).
He was the first running back in NFL history to rush for 1,000+ yards in each of his first three seasons.
Brockington also spent part of the 1977 season with the Kansas City Chiefs and finished his career with 5,185 rushing yards. He had 30 touchdown points and four catches.
The Packers selected Brockington, a native of Brooklyn, New York, out of Ohio State with the ninth overall pick in the 1971 draft.
Brockington rushed for 1,105 yards in his first season at Green Bay, which was an NFL rookie record at the time. He earned All-Pro honors and was named NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year.
He followed that up by rushing for 1,027 yards in 1972 while helping the Packers win an NFC Central title. Brockington rushed for 1,144 yards in 1973.
Brockington earned three consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 1971 to 1973.
Brockington finished his career with 5,185 rushing yards. He had 30 touchdown points and four catches. His final season was in 1977, when he played one game with the Packers and 10 with the Kansas City Chiefs.
He was inducted into the Packers Hall of Fame in 1984.
“The Packers family was saddened to learn of John’s passing,” Packers Chairman and CEO Mark Murphy said in a statement. “One of the great runners of his day, John was an exciting player to watch with his powerful running style. Fans have enthusiastically welcomed John to Lambeau Field over the years, fondly remembering the 1972 Division Championship as well as positives he provided in less successful seasons.
“I have enjoyed getting to know John on his return visits to Green Bay and have greatly respected his work for organ donation through the John Brockington Foundation. He leaves a wonderful legacy. We extend our condolences to his wife, Diane, and to his family and friends.