25. Roosevelt “Rosey” Brown, offensive tackle, Morgan State University
Do not let the flowery nickname fool you. Roosevelt Brown was one of the most feared offensive linemen of his day. To say Brown had an exciting journey before, during and after his playing days is an understatement.
Initially, Brown’s parents did not want him to play football. Brown played in the high school band after his brother died while playing football. Finally, Jefferson High School football coach Robert W. Smith convinced Brown to come out for football.
As the story goes, the band director wanted to fight the football coach because Brown was an accomplished trumpet player. Though he began playing football without his father’s knowledge, Brown was good enough to earn a scholarship to Morgan State University.
In 1952, Brown was a Pittsburgh Courier All-American. Tom Brady’s draft story is legendary, but even he was not drafted in the 27th round. After nine pro bowls, six first-team all-pro selections in 13 seasons, it is easy to see why Brown is considered the most significant draft steal in NFL history.
Most impressive is that Brown missed just four games in 13 seasons. He was an anchor on an offensive line that opened holes for Frank Gifford and Alex Webster on their way to the 1956 NFL Championship.