Frank Ryan, the last quarterback to lead the Cleveland Browns to an NFL title, died Monday.
He was 87.
According to reports, his family said he died at a nursing home in Connecticut, where he had been battling Alzheimer’s. His family also reportedly said they have donated his brain to Boston University’s CTE Center for study because they believe that CTE “played a role in the progression of the (Alzheimer’s).”
He connected with Pennsylvania legend Gary Collins for three touchdowns in the 1965 title game to help the Browns upset the Baltimore Colts, 27-0.
It was the last title the Browns won. The team has never played in a Super Bowl.
Ryan also had stints with the Los Angeles Rams and Washington.
He was a three-time Pro Bowl pick, and finished his career with 16,042 passing yards to go with 149 touchdowns and 111 interceptions. He led the league in passing touchdowns in 1964 and 1966.
He was the athletic director at Yale for 10 years following his playing days.
“Our hearts are with the family and friends of Frank Ryan, as we honor the life of a Browns icon and championship-winning quarterback,” the Browns said in a post on social media.
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