Cleveland Browns: 15 best running backs of all-time

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If Ernie Green were to enter the NFL today, he wouldn’t have been drafted. That’s because it took all the way until the 14th round for him to hear his name called.

After performing as an All-American for the Louisville Cardinals, Green was selected in the later rounds of the 1962 NFL Draft by the Green Bay Packers. He never ended up playing for The Pack though, as Green was sent to the Browns via trade during his rookie training camp.

Green never really became a lead back in his tenure and spent more of his time as a blocker. The fullback had the honor of being on the same roster as Leroy Kelly and Jim Brown and was credited with opening many holes for a couple of the biggest names to ever play in Northeast Ohio.

This doesn’t mean that Green wasn’t good with the ball in his hands. As a runner, he averaged 4.8 yards per attempt and ended his seven-year career with 3,204 yards rushing and 15 touchdowns. He was more consistent as a receiver and finished with 2,036 yards off 195 receptions — and another 20 touchdowns.

In 1968, Green started to deal with knee problems. They lingered throughout his final NFL season. He played in just eight games that year and ended up having to hang up his cleats after surgery was performed on his problematic knee.