Saints star Tyrann Mathieu rages against ESPN listing Jim Brown’s sins
Cleveland Browns legend Jim Brown died on May 19 at the age of 87. The NFL world mourned the passing of the legendary running back, with many fans and athletes sending their condolences to the bereaved family.
Many pieces were written to pay ode to the late NFL icon. One piece, though, caught New Orleans Saints safety Tyrann Mathieu's attention. An ESPN article on Jim Brown's death listed his many run-ins with the law. A clipping of the article in question was promptly picked up and went viral on Twitter.
That’s not right! twitter.com/_mlfootball/st…
"Brown had several run-ins with the law after his NFL career," the piece read. He went on trial for assault and battery in 1965 after an 18-year-old accused him of giving her whiskey and forcing her to have sex."
Tyrann Mathieu was having none of it. The Saints star tweeted in response:
"That's not right!"
Jim Brown's cause of death explored
According to Brown's wife Monique, the Browns legend passed peacefully in his sleep.
"He passed peacefully last night at our LA home," Monique Brown wrote in an Instagram post.
She added:
"To the world, he was an activist, actor and football star. To our family, he was a loving and wonderful husband, father and grandfather."
Brown was a certified all-time great for Cleveland. He led the league in rushing in eight of his nine seasons and was named the MVP thrice. He retired shortly after picking up his third MVP award, announcing his retirement in 1965.
He also led the Browns to their last championship the same season. Brown made a name for himself in the field of activism after calling time on his NFL career.
NBA superstar LeBron James took note of Brown's passing, dedicating an Instagram post to the NFL legend:
"We lost a hero today," James wrote. "Rest in Paradise to the legend Jim Brown. I hope every Black athlete takes the time to educate themselves about this incredible man and what he did to change all of our lives. We all stand on your shoulders Jim Brown."
Commissioner Roger Goodell on the passing of Hall of Fame RB Jim Brown. https://t.co/jgVjPbH0Rv
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell also penned a few words following Brown's passing. Goodell extended his condolences to Brown's family, adding that the NFL icon was a "cultural figure who helped promote change."
Jim Brown's net worth explored: How much was NFL legend worth at the time of his death?
According to multiple reports, the iconic running back was worth $30 million at the time of his death. Brown made most of his money during his time in the NFL. It's believed that he earned a salary of nearly $60,000 during his time with the Browns.
Off the field, Brown carved a niche for himself in Hollywood. He appeared in films like the smash hit Dirty Dozen, The Split (his first in a lead role) and Riot.